What Is Cupping Therapy?
Cupping therapy, a key component of TCM, is a time-honoured practice that dates back thousands of
years and is believed to stimulate the flow of Qi (vital energy), enhance blood circulation, and facilitate
healing. Think of this as a reverse massage.
Suction is created in the cups using fire and quickly placed on the skin. As the cup acts as a vacuum, it
pulls up the skin, creating more space in the fascia. This encourages more blood and oxygen flow,
breaks up scar tissues and muscular knots. It also removes metabolic waste and brings more blood and
nutrition to the muscles for faster recovery.
Benefits of TCM Cupping
This old TCM philosophy holds that pain results from the blockage of Qi, blood, or energy. Cupping is
therefore a method of clearing this blockage to restore the body’s natural flow of energy and thus
alleviating the pain.
Recent research show that cupping therapy helps:
● Muscle relaxation by improving microcirculation, promoting cell repair and angiogenesis in tissues
● Promote healing process, increased local tissue metabolism
● Activate the lymphatic system to drain excess fluids and toxins
● Musculoskeletal pain : Chronic lower back pain, neck pain and fibromyalgia
● Digestive problems : Bloating, gastric reflux and constipation conditions
● Improving recovery : Cough, asthma and common cold
Cupping therapy is suitable for treating a variety of conditions,
including:
● Muscle pain and tension – such as back pain, neck pain, and stiffness
● Chronic pain – helping with conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and sciatica
● Poor circulation – improving blood flow and reducing swelling
● Respiratory conditions – like asthma, bronchitis, and colds, by clearing congestion and improving
lung function
● Stress and anxiety – promoting relaxation and calming the nervous system
● Digestive issues – such as bloating, constipation, and indigestion
● Detoxification – by helping to release toxins and promote lymphatic drainage
