What is hot cupping?

Cupping is an ancient healing therapy that is a form of traditional Chinese medicine used to ease pain through the use of a suction force that pulls the skin upwards. It is a safe, effective treatment that helps resolve chronic muscle tightness and pain faster than massage therapy alone.

A provider places cups on your back, stomach, arms, legs or other parts of your body. Inside the cup, a vacuum or suction force pulls the skin upward. Cupping is a form of traditional Chinese and Middle Eastern medicine.

How it works

Cupping therapy is a form of alternative medicine in which a local suction is created on the skin with the application of heated cups. 

During our hot cupping session, we will put a flammable substance (such as alcohol) in a cup and set it on fire. As the fire goes out, we will place these cups upside down on your back, stomach, arms, legs or other parts of your body and then as the air inside the cup cools, it creates a vacuum. This causes your skin to rise and redden as your blood vessels expand. The cup is generally left in place for up to 3 minutes.

1. Increases circulation

This suction improves the flow of energy in the body and facilitates healing by increasing blood circulation to the area where the cups are placed. This may relieve muscle tension, which can improve overall blood flow and promote cell repair. Increasing circulation with cupping also helps to reduce the appearance of cellulite.

2. Encourages tissues to release toxins

Yes, you do have organs that remove toxins from your blood. But the modern lifestyle overloads your body with toxins. Cupping gives your body a boost in releasing those toxins. Focused blood flow helps your body by flushing built-up toxins through the lymphatic system. (Your lymphatic system is responsible for eliminating your body’s toxins and waste.)

3. Reduce stretch marks and scars

Increased blood flow enables your body to dispose of toxins, restores lymphatic circulation, and helps remove oedema (excess fluid), which helps reduce the appearance of scarring. Studies have shown the positive effects of cupping on stretch marks and scars even in areas that are far from the area where the cups are applied.