What is a Cupping Massage ?
Practised in China as an integral part of Chinese Medicine for the past 5000 years, Cupping Massage is used to soften tight muscles, tone attachments, loosen adhesions, bring hydration and blood flow to the tissues of the body, and drain excess fluid and toxins by opening lymphatic pathways. By creating suction and negative pressure, Cupping Massage brings localised blood supply to the area being worked on thus bringing nourishment and allowing for toxins to be released. Large cups are used for broad areas such as the back where the strong suction will mimic the rolling action of Deep Tissue Massage. The skin will turn red with the strong suction indicating that circulation has been brought to the surface of the skin. Stationary cupping may also be used where the cups remain affixed to a specific area for 5 to 20 minutes, depending on the condition being treated.
Cupping Massage Benefits
Cupping Massage is beneficial for many ailments: Chronic muscle pain and stiffness, the common cold, high blood pressure, anxiety, headaches, fibromyalgia, and cellulite and works with the body by:
- Releasing rigid soft tissue
- Drains excess fluid and toxins
- Lifts connective tissue
- Increases blood flow to skin and muscles
- Activates stagnate Qi
More Information
How often should you get a massage?
For acute muscle injuries, 3-6 sessions a week is optimal. As part of general muscular and health maintenance, weekly treatments or monthly massages are effective.
What should you wear to a massage?
You do not have to wear anything specific. You will be required to disrobe down to your undergarments. Your Therapist will cover you with a large clean towel and uncover the areas being worked on.
What should I do before my appointment?
There is nothing specific you will be required to do before a Deep Tissue Massage. However, you may be refused treatment if you are under the influence of alcohol/ drugs or have any contraindications to Massage.
Why do I have so many knots in my back?
This generally has to do with environmental factors. The main reasons why people have ‘knots’ in their back, or muscle tension is to due with sitting at a desk all day, stress, not stretching enough and excessive exercise.
Should I stretch before a massage?
Stretching is not necessary. However, some people stretch to help their muscles relax for the start of the session.
Are muscle knots dangerous?
Muscle knots are a signal from your body that your muscles are overworked. Unhealthy lifestyle habits such as stress, muscle injuries and poor posture contribute to knots. It is the root cause of the knots that can be deemed dangerous, not the knots themselves.