Wednesday, March 22, 2017

My Cupping Experience

Hey Fit Fam,

A couple of weeks ago I posted on my Instagram about my Cupping session on my back.

Today I had it done on my abdomen and right arm. I had TONS of questions about what this type of therapy is and who could benefit ... so I thought I'd write up a little blog for you!

What is CUPPING?
Cupping therapy is an ancient form of alternative medicine where a trained therapist puts special cups on your skin for a few minutes to create suction. People get it for many purposes, including to help with pain, inflammation, blood flow, relaxation and well-being, and as a type of deep-tissue massage.
What we do know from the limited scientific studies that have been done is that cupping works by expanding the capillaries and increasing the amount of fluid entering and leaving tissues. I think that THIS article by Dr. Axe best explains the benefits of cupping!

Who could benefit from cupping?
While athletes like Michael Phelps made this a popular therapy amongst athletes ... cupping can benefit anyone with chronic pain and other conditions. Do some research to see if it is a fit for you! Also it's said that stand alone cupping may not provide as many benefits as cupping combined with other forms of therapy.

Does it hurt?
I cant' speak for everyone but no it did not hurt me at all. If it hurts make sure and tell your therapist.

How long do those ugly marks last?
Again, I can't speak for everyone. I do bruise easily (however I should note that the marks left from cupping are NOT bruises) .. my marks were totally gone in 7-10 days and faded to almost not noticeable in about 3-4 days. Some of them faded in 2 days.

Cupping on the back is something we see quite a bit of. Cupping on the abdomen .. not so much. So why did I do it on my stomach? I have major stomach issues mainly due to #CeliacDisease ... but also IBS-C. I did a ton of research on what cupping the abdomen MAY do to help ... so my theory is WHY NOT give it a try!

The suction reaches up to 4 inches into the soft tissue, attachments and organs. It is said to help draw out toxins and inflammation from the body to the surface of the skin, where the lymphatic system eliminates them.

The suction-pulling power of negative pressure over the abdomen stimulates the inside of the digestive organs, resulting in an increase of peristaltic action, secretion of digestive fluids and absorption of required nutrients and water, which assists the nourishing of body tissues. Immediate benefits of cupping the abdomen can include:

Clearing colon blockages
Breaking down fatty deposits
Encouraging blood and body-fluid movement in the bowels and internal organs
Soothing the nervous system
Releasing inner emotions
Promoting digestion
Relieving indigestion or heartburn

If you live in the Vegas area I HIGHLY suggest Karen Garrett. No matter who you go see for cupping, please just don't go to anyone to have this done and certainly don't attempt it on yourself. Make sure the person you are seeing is trained and licensed!

I'll keep you posted on my Instagram Story as to how I feel over the next few days!
Stacy

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