Author: Grace Yu (Yu Hsin Tzu)
The sound of cupping is incredibly therapeutic!
For Grace, our traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, cupping is a form of tissue renewal therapy. By creating negative pressure on the skin’s surface, cups are suctioned onto the skin, which promotes blood circulation, relieves muscle tension, and helps reduce pain and inflammation. This technique is quite common in traditional Chinese medicine, with “fire cupping” being particularly favoured for its warming sensation. Beyond enhancing circulation and alleviating tension, cupping is also an effective method for balancing organ functions in patients.
Importantly, cupping is not just a detoxification and pain relief treatment; it can also provide insights into the body’s health status through the colour changes on the skin caused by the cups. Different colours can indicate various underlying issues:
- Red: Typically signals good local blood circulation but may suggest inflammation or excessive tension.
- Purple: Often indicates blood stasis or poor circulation.
- Light or Colourless: Usually suggests a deficiency in Qi and blood or a weakened state of the body.
In TCM theory, the bladder meridian on the back connects to multiple organs throughout the body. Cupping stimulates these meridians, promoting the flow of Qi and blood, which can lead to improved overall health.
