How to Use Cupping

Cupping is a healing art first used by ancient Chinese practitioners who called it "horn therapy." The process is simple. Glass cups are heated from the inside and placed above different muscle areas to form suction. This is said to stimulate circulation and suck out toxins, allowing the body to heal from anything from colds to back pain. The use of cupping is said to be safe and noninvasive.

Instructions

• 1

  Learn the difference between the two different kinds of cupping, wet and dry. Wet cupping involves bloodletting, which is not the focus of this article and is a whole different therapy unto itself. Dry cupping involves placing the cups over unbroken skin.

• 2

  Consider the two different ways the cups are used, stationary and moving. Stationary is the technique most used by Chinese practitioners and involves placing the cups on the skin and leaving them for 5-15 minutes in one location. Moving, also known as "massage cupping," is the choice of today's therapists. Before the cups are used, oil is rubbed onto the skin to help identify areas of tension or congestion, the cup is then placed, the vacuum is created and the cup is slid over the surface of the affected area.

• 3

  Note that glass or bamboo are the preferred materials for the cups. The cups are placed on the skin with suction, which is said to influence the flow of energy and blood in the body, particularly the affected area needing treatment.

• 4

  Experience cupping for yourself if you are having problems with your neck, shoulders, back, hips, abdomen, thighs, upper arms or calves. There is a specific pattern to the cups depending on the condition involved. For example, the cups are placed in rows down the back next to the spine to help relieve colds and the flu or to suppress pain.

• 5

  Understand the vacuum in the cup brings blood and lymph to the area which is said to promoting circulation and healing. In addition, the suction will help disrupt adhesions between the skin and underlying connective tissues, assisting with range of motion issues.

• 6

  Contact licensed massage therapists in your area to see if they offer cupping.