Cupping

Ever noticed the circular marks on professional athletes and wondered what they were? They are the tell-tale marks of cupping, a therapy with ancient roots that people still use today.

Cupping works by creating gentle suction with rounded glass cups that are warmed and placed on the skin. The suction lifts the muscles and connective tissue, bringing fresh blood and nutrients into the area and helping to release tension. Sometimes the cups are left in one place, other times they are moved across the skin with massage oil.

The treatment feels a little like a deep massage, only without the heavy pressure. Many people find cupping surprisingly calming, even if the marks look dramatic afterwards.

Those circular red or purple marks are probably the most recognisable sign of cupping. They are not bruises and they are not painful. You can think of them as evidence that circulation has been stimulated. The colour and intensity will vary depending on how much tension is present in the tissues. They usually fade within a few days and are gone within a week. Some people also feel a little tender in the area afterwards, much like the sensation you get after a strong massage.

After cupping it is best to avoid cold showers, swimming or ocean dips for at least 24 hours. This is because the pores are more open after treatment, which leaves the body sensitive to cold. In Chinese Medicine terms, cold slows the healthy movement of Qi and Blood and can lead to stiffness or discomfort.

Cupping can be used on its own or combined with acupuncture as part of a treatment plan. Whether you are hoping to ease tight muscles, recover after training, or simply give your body a reset, cupping is a natural and time tested option.