Cupping
Glass or plastic cups create gentle suction on the skin – loosening the tissue, stimulating local circulation, and combining beautifully with massage.
In cupping, glass or plastic cups are placed on the skin – usually on the back – and a gentle vacuum is created. The tissue is lightly lifted, which helps release tension and stimulates local circulation.
In TCM, cupping is traditionally used to resolve stagnation and support the flow of qi. I often combine it with massage: in a cupping massage, the cups glide over oiled skin, joining the benefits of both methods in one treatment.
Like all TCM methods, cupping is traditionally used as a complementary therapy – it does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment.
Traditional application areas
- Muscular tension
- Back complaints
- Susceptibility to colds (traditional use)
- Muscular fatigue
Variants
Cupping massage
The cups are glided over oiled skin – an intensive combination of cupping and massage, especially soothing on the back.
