Benefits of Cupping Massage

Cupping massage is a type of massage that was developed in China and other ancient cultures. The masseuse lights an alcohol-soaked cotton ball on fire. The cotton ball is inserted into a sturdy glass cup. Then it is quickly removed from the cup. The cup is placed onto the skin. Heat creates a vacuum seal that pulls the skin and some tissue into the cup. This form of massage is said to have several benefits.

Remove Toxins

Cupping massage can help to remove toxins from the body. This procedure can be traced back to ancient times when a form of cupping using hollow animal horns was used to suck venom and other toxins out of people, states MassageMag.com. When the suction forms in the cup, negative pressure is formed. This pressure can affect tissues up to four inches below the surface of the skin, which helps to draw toxins out of the skin. The pressure can also help to remove blockages in various systems of the body, such as the lymphatic system or circulatory system, which allows the body to get rid of toxins.

Improved Circulation

Improvements in blood flow and circulation are often the result of cupping massage, states Massage.org. The suction that is caused during the cupping massage helps to get the blood moving in the massaged area, which can also help it to flow better through the rest of the body. This improved circulation is also purported to help activate the lymphatic system and increase the energy flow, as stated by Celebrate You Massage.

Pain Relief

Massage Today reports that cupping massage can help to decrease inflammation of tissues. This may help to control pain, improve flexibility and increase range of motion. For patients that suffer from conditions such as fibromyalgia or arthritis, cupping massage may help to provide some relief.

Mental Benefits

Some patients who have a cupping massage may experience a decrease in depression or anxiety, states Fibromyalgia-Symptoms.org. During the cupping massage, serotonin is released. This is a neurotransmitter that helps people to relax and fall asleep. It is also responsible for stabilizing moods. Serotonin enhancing medications are often prescribed to help patients who suffer from depression or anxiety. Since serotonin is released during the massage, many patients will feel relaxed after the massage, which may be why these mental benefits are noted.

Citations:
http://www.massagemag.com/spa/treatment/cupping.php
http://www.massages.org/massages/types/other-types.asp
http://www.celebrateyoumassage.com/massage-cupping.html
http://www.massagetoday.com/archives/2004/02/04.html
http://www.fibromyalgia-symptoms.org/fibromyalgia_cupping.html
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/02/080204094507.htm
http://www.integrative-healthcare.org/mt/archives/2005/08/insomnia_seroto.html