Cupping

Cupping is a very old technique which was used in China in ancient times. The first recorded account of it is believed to be around AD300. At that time animal horns were used, but thankfully today we use cups made from glass and bamboo!

The cups (shaped like upside - down jam jars) are used primarily on the shoulders, back along the spine and on the abdomen. They are useful in the treatment of pain, stiffness, soreness, asthma, bronchitis, lung weakness and the common cold. They can also be used on their own as a general treatment for relaxation and strengthening the body's Qi (Life Force).

A Cupping Treatment: A partial vacuum is created in the cups by quickly putting a flame into the cup, withdrawing it and rapidly placing the cups along the areas to be treated. The suction draws some of the skin up into the cups. The client will feel a pleasant warming sensation as the muscles begin to soften and relax. The cups can be used on their own or placed over needles as part of an acupuncture treatment. They are usually left in place for about 15 minutes. Sometimes after they have been removed a red ring may be left behind, but this usually disappears after a day or two. Everyone enjoys this soothing treatment.