Cupping
Cupping
What is Cupping?
Cupping? (also known as Cupping Therapy), is a therapy where suction cups are placed on the skin and air is removed, this suction allows the cup to hold onto the surface of the skin and gently pulls the skin up into the cup and this allows the skin and underlying fascia (fibres) to separate.
As a result of the separating of the underlying fibres a “Sha” appears. Sha is a change in colour of the skin, it takes on a healthy pinky/red colour, which disappears within a few minutes. Sometimes a “petechiae” appears, this is a darker colour and can be dark red or purple in patches, similar fresh bruise, this should disappear within a few days. Usually the darker colour indicates that there may be an underlying injury.
Occasionally the cups remain in one place for a few minutes (which may result in round petechiae marks on the skin), or I may glide the cups over the skin, as if providing a Cupping Massage, which may mark the skin in lines or patches.
This treatment can be slightly uncomfortable, initially, over the tender areas, but the discomfort doesn't last long.
Traditionally animal horns, bamboo and glass have been used to facilitate this treatment. At the moment I am unable to use “fire cupping” (the flame is used to take the oxygen out of the glass cup to create a vacuum) so I use the plastic version. In some clinics, not this one, the skin is pierced with a needle, or blade and the cup is placed on top of the cut, this draws out blood from the newly created wound and is a method of blood letting.
What are the benefits of Cupping?
Benefits: Breaks down any areas of stuckness, or congestion, allowing free movement & circulation of the vital flows (Blood, Qi, Lymph).
What to expect during your appointment:
During the consultation we will discuss if you have Cupping as a stand alone treatment or we may choose to incorporate it within a traditional therapeutic massage or other body work, as required, with consent of course. Cups will be placed on the body and if you identify any tender areas, the cups may be left in place for a few minutes.
Please see: Cautions & Contraindications:
Cupping Prices
Cupping - 30 mins: £38.00
45 mins: £48.00
As part of Massage Appointment - 1 hr: £53.00
Prices correct as at: 01.01.2024