Cupping

About Cupping

Cupping is a therapy in which cups are placed on the skin after suction is created. Cupping therapy uses the suction of the cups to increase circulation and thereby to promote the healing of a broad range of ailments. Suction is created by placing a glass cup over a small flame and the quickly placing the cup on the skin, no flames ever touch the skin. The two most common methods of cupping are "fixed cupping" and "moving cupping."

Cupping Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of cupping?

• Stationary cupping -  Cups are placed on a certain area of the body and left in place for 5-10 minutes.

• Moving cupping -  Massage oil or cream is applied on the skin where cupping will be performed, the cups are then placed over certain areas of the body, and the practitioner slides them around.

• Bleeding Cupping -  Is done in combination with stationary cupping to remove toxins directly from the body rather than letting the toxins drain out through the stool, urine or sweat. A lancet in a specific pen is used to prick the top layer of skin to allow toxic blood to be released once suction is applied. There is no scarring and minimal pain.

• Popping cupping - Is usually done on the abdomen to stop diarrhea or alleviate constipation. The cups are placed on and taken off just as fast along the intestinal tract in a rhythmic motion for 3-5 min

How long does it take to heal?

Cupping may leave bruising, this bruising will often be worse in the area where there is most pain or toxin build-up. The time span is dependent on a few things; your skin type, your general health, your pain level, your daily toxin exposure and how strongly the cups were placed on your body. We advise you not to consume any red meats, dairy products, junk food, and alcohol and to avoid any toxic chemicals such as cigarettes and narcotics for a brief period of 24 hours post-treatment. You are also discouraged from taking any cold baths, using ice or being exposed to the wind as your pores are open, and allowing the cold to enter may prevent the full results from being applied. In general the time to fully heal ranges from approximately 5 days to about 14 days.

Will I scar?

There is no scarring, only bruising after any of the cupping sessions

Can I operate heavy vehicles or carry on with normal activity after treatment?

In general you can continue with life and daily routine as normal. If you feel more fatigued after a session make sure you keep up with your water intake to allow for the toxins to get out of your body as quick as possible.

How often should I have it done?

It would a case-by-case recommendation depending on what is going on in each patient’s body. Your practitioner will be able to advise you at each session.

What should I do in preparation for any Cupping procedure?

It would be wise to have a good nutritious meal about 3 hours before treatment, and don't forget to hydrate before and after the treatment.

Can you combine cupping with other treatments?

In Chinese Medicine, we look at the body as a whole and if one part is out, often it is because a number of things are going on. Therefore, multiple conditions are addressed at the same time, and cupping can be combined with services like acupuncture, our hyperbaric oxygen chamber, massage, red light therapy, infrared sauna, and more. We can discuss the best course of action in combining treatments during your next visit to Awaken Now.

Are there any self-care recommendations post-treatment?

In order to ensure a speedy recovery, we recommend the following:

• Eat a healthy and well-balanced meal. Artificial foods, preservatives, and other chemicals will undo the detox benefits achieved by cupping. 

• Keep hydrated

• Take a breath and relax, allow your body to heal itself so it would be best to avoid any physical or emotional stress.