Cupping
The oldest account of cupping therapy actually comes from the ancient Egyptians. Some historians believe the Egyptians actually received the knowledge of cupping from the ancient peoples in the East. There is also evidence of cupping being used in ancient Greece by Hippocrates, the “father of medicine.”
It’s a technique using little cups that we attach to the skin by creating a vacuum within the cup. The skin is pulled partially into the body of the cup, which stimulates the blood to move into the area, improving circulation, moving fluids and stimulating white blood cell production. It’s used to remove stagnation, relieve pain and swelling and can be a soothing massage technique. It’s also beneficial in treating colds, menstrual or digestive problems, and a variety of acute and chronic ailments.
The skin will normally bruise slightly called “Sha” – (the amount and color of the Sha is used diagnostically) but will clear up within a few days. The bruising will stimulate local immune function and create feedback to the entire immune system, which increases the healing effect of the treatment. Always remember to keep covered after a session of cupping. If you want to learn more, ask at your next appointment!
Gua Sha
Gua Sha (Pronounced “gwa shah”) is similar to cupping. Both techniques aim to bring the Sha to the surface of the body. Gua Sha uses a small tool that is scraped along the selected area. Where Cupping works through suction; Gua Sha works through friction. Both are used to increase circulation and lymphatic flow – and, you often feel amazing after a treatment!
If a patient has inflamed skin, lesions, convulsions, or bleeds easily, Cupping and Gua Sha are not recommended. This is also true for pregnancy, depending on medical history and gestational term.
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