With the media’s attention on the Olympics, cupping has been brought to the forefront of Chinese Medicine. It was once a fairly unknown modality, but now everyone is asking about its benefits and it is about time!
Cupping is a therapy that complements acupuncture, which serves to accelerate healing in being used alone or in conjunction with needling. One of the greatest modalities that Chinese Medicine has to offer is fire cupping because its benefits can serve almost everyone.
Cupping is the term used for the process of strategically placing glass cups over specific points of the body and/or affected area and creating a suction to draw toxins out of the body while at the same time nourishing the area with qi and blood. Cupping is similar to a massage, however there is a difference in its purpose. Whereas massage applies an inward pressure into the muscles, cupping draws the muscle upward. It is often described as an inverted massage that pulls the fascia upward and draws blood to the area. Where there is blood, there is oxygen, and the combination promotes a faster recovery.
The effects of the heated suction and the inverse pressure can soothe aching muscles, promote qi and blood, as well as calm the nervous system. But the benefits do not stop there. Cupping is also a great treatment for the lungs; it can alleviate allergies and chest congestion, ailments of the common cold or flu, and other respiratory issues.
Please remember that cupping should always be performed by a licensed professional who has received training from an accredited institution. If you would like to schedule a visit or talk more about the benefits of Chinese Medicine please feel free to call 908.288.7682.
Lauren Daniels, L.Ac. Dipl. Ac. (NCCAOM)
TLC Acupuncture
908.379.8600