Cupping: An Ancient Practice for Modern Wellness
Imagine a therapy that dates back thousands of years, practiced by various cultures across the globe, and continues to gain popularity in the modern era. Cupping therapy's roots can be traced back to ancient civilisations in Egypt, China, and the Middle East. One of the earliest documented evidence of cupping is found in the Ebers Papyrus, an ancient Egyptian medical text from around 1500 B.C.E.
Cupping therapy is an integral aspect of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and has been embraced in the Western world by many seeking complementary healing and wellness methods. It’s also a popular treatment in the world of sports, so might have spotted your favourite athlete or someone at your local gym with cupping marks on their body! In this article we dive into the history, treatment style, and potential benefits of cupping therapy, as well as the growing amount of research to support its rise in popularity.
What To Expect From A Cupping Treatment
During a cupping therapy session, your practitioner places cups made of glass or plastic on the skin, typically on the back, neck, shoulders, or legs. The placement of the cups depends on your individual needs and preferences, so make sure to communicate clearly with your practitioner what your symptoms are and if you have any specific requirements. The suction is created within the cups, either by introducing heat (fire cupping) or using a special pump (dry cupping). In Traditional Chinese Medicine it is believed that this suction then stimulates the flow of Qi and blood, which may promote the release of muscle tension, stuck energy and overall wellbeing.
As the cups are left in place for a few minutes, you may experience a sensation of tightness or pulling, but the treatment is generally considered relaxing and pleasant. Afterward, the practitioner releases the suction and removes the cups, often followed by a massage or other complementary therapies like acupuncture to add to the treatment's effectiveness in helping your body’s energy to flow and any muscle tension to ease. After treatment you’ll notice redness or bruising on your skin, as a result from the suction, which might last for a couple of days to a week before it heals.
The Importance Of Finding Qualified Therapists
Cupping therapy has garnered support and recognition from various regulatory bodies and research institutions worldwide, but still it’s important that you receive treatment from professionals who are fully-trained and qualified in this technique. Receiving cupping from qualified practitioners makes sure you have a safe, personalised experience. So make sure to book your treatment with vetted experts who have in-depth knowledge of cupping and Chinese Medicine's principles, techniques, and the potential risks, as well as the skills to combine it with other treatment types like acupuncture, Gua Sha and herbal medicine for the best quality care and results.
Book Your Cupping Treatment, Easily Online
The British Acupuncture Council (BAcC), the UK's leading professional body representing traditional acupuncturists, acknowledges the benefits of cupping therapy and encourages its safe and professional practice. On Circe, you can book your next cupping treatment with qualified acupuncturists easily online. Search our booking platform for acupuncturists in your area, and you’ll see their availability for an add-on cupping treatment on their profiles. All practitioners on Circe are registered with a regulatory organisation and verified by our team.
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