Description

What is cupping therapy (vacuum therapy)

Cupping cups resemble cups, which depending on the material they are made of can be – glass, silicone, ceramic, wooden, etc.
During cupping therapy, a slight vacuum is created inside the cups, after which the cups are placed on the skin. The vacuum effect of the cups creates a gentle suction that softens the tissues and at the same time increases the circulation of blood, fluids and chi energy.

By stimulating the skin and underlying muscles, cupping therapy helps to expel accumulated, specific toxins for a given area, by stimulating the circulation of blood and lymph in the vessels.

Cupping cups can be placed on the neck, shoulders, back, sacral area, thighs, abdomen, upper arms, and in some cases even on the forehead or soles of the feet, depending on the person’s condition. The sensation of cupping therapy is often described as very warming and relaxing. Many people describe it as deeply relaxing. It loosens up hardened soft tissue and stubborn knots. Tense and painful muscles are relaxed and blood supply is restored quickly, with just a few minutes of cupping therapy.

Cupping Therapy Methods

The method by holding the cups – most commonly used. The cups are applied and placed on certain areas of the body, with the duration of their application varying from a few seconds to a few minutes, depending on the treatment protocol, the desired effect and the goal of the therapy.

The method by short-term holding the cups – the cups are placed and held on the desired area for a very short time, then removed.

Method by sliding the cups – before applying the cups, the part of the human body subject to cupping therapy is smeared with oil (massage, medicinal, essential as well as other types of oils or ointments) to create the possibility of smooth sliding movements. The practitioner slides the cups over the surface of the body, for example, on the back or thighs, until the muscles and connective tissue soften.

Other methods – these include combining cupping therapy with acupuncture (a needle is added to the suction site with the cup); combining with bloodletting; combining with herbal therapies by boiling the cups with herbs, or placing herbs inside the cups.