Cupping is the term applied to a powerful Traditional Chinese Medicine technique using small glass cups (or bamboo jars) as suction devices applied to the surface of the body. It is a deeply relaxing therapy that can address a multitude of conditions when properly applied. You can read more about the research and science of cupping in our blog article: "What is Cupping & How Does it Work."
Increases Circulation & Relieve Muscle Pain
The suction from the cups increases circulation to the localized area of the body in which the cups are placed. The additional blood flow to that area can significantly help relieve muscle tension and promote cellular repair. Skin is well vascularized – meaning it has a rich blood supply, and the applied suction has been found to increase circulation through dilating capillaries causing them to rupture – which causes the tell-tale circular Petechiae – and to promote lymphatic circulation.
Encourages Tissues to Release Toxins
Yes, you do have organs that remove toxins from your blood. But the modern lifestyle overloads your body with toxins. Cupping gives your body a boost in releasing those toxins. Focused blood flow helps your body by flushing built-up toxins through the lymphatic system. (Your lymphatic system is responsible for eliminating your body’s toxins and waste.)
Reduces Anxiety
When your Practitioner glides the cups across your skin, your parasympathetic nervous system engages. Your parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for moderating and slowing your heart rate, assisting in digestion, and increasing intestinal and gland activity. This promotes deep relaxation to move through your entire body.
Reduces Stretch Marks & Scars
Increased blood flow enables your body to dispose of toxins, restores lymphatic circulation, and helps remove edema (excess fluid), which helps reduce the appearance of scarring. Studies have shown the positive effects of cupping on stretch marks and scars even in areas that are far from the area where the cups are applied.
Cupping can Improve Varicose Veins and Spider Veins
Varicose veins look like bulging, bluish veins just under your skin, usually on legs and feet. They happen when the valves inside the vein aren’t working properly—the valves don’t effectively push the blood from the muscle back to the heart, so the blood congests and the veins twist and bulge. Cupping helps by bringing fresh blood flow and oxygen back to the problem areas. You’ll notice your varicose veins appear lighter after your first session, though it will take a series of cupping sessions for lasting results.
Clear Chest Congestion & Treat Asthma
Congestion (the buildup of fluid or phlegm in your lungs) caused by a cold, bronchitis, or even asthma can be treated with cupping. The suction from cups breaks up and expels congestion. It brings oxygen rich blood and lymph toward your lungs and your other respiratory muscles. Cups are usually placed on your back, but may be placed on your chest as well. Your Practitioner may leave the cups in place, or may gently glide them in an upward motion to facilitate the movement of the lymph fluid.
Clear Intestinal Blockage & Aid Digestion
Cupping helps to engage the parasympathetic nervous system, which increases blood flow to the digestive tract. Gentle cupping over the abdomen also stimulates the insides of your digestive organs. It aids in peristalsis (contractions that push food through your digestive tract), helps clear colon blockages, encourages blood and body-fluid to move through your organs, and helps relieve indigestion.
Wondering if cupping could work for you?
In general, cupping is a therapy that is used in conjunction with Acupuncture and other Chinese Medicine therapies - but, at times it can also be applied solo. It requires that your Practitioner have a full medical and health history of the patient, in order to best determine the more appropriate and effective treatment for each person. Generally, patients find it a very effective treatment - and overall relaxing experience, sometimes even falling asleep during their session.
If you are curious and would like to know more - we are happy to answer your questions - just give us a call. (917) 210-1063
Phil Veneziano, M.S., L.Ac.
Cristina R. de La Mar, M.S., L.Ac., Doula
(917) 210-1063
Seven Point Wellness is an Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine Clinic, located at 187 Millburn Ave., Suite #101 in Millburn, NJ, in the Trader Joe / CVS Business Complex.
We are an easy drive from Maplewood, South Orange, Short Hills, Livingston and most cities in Union, Morris and Essex County, NJ. We are also an easy walk from the New Jersey Transit via bus or train.
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