Cupping Therapy is a form of alternative therapy.  The cups mobilize blood flow to promote healing.  Cupping therapy dates back to ancient Egyptian, Chinese and Middle Eastern cultures.  One of the oldest medical text books in the world, the Ebers Papyrus describes how the ancient Egyptians used cupping therapy as early as 1550 B.C.

In cupping therapy cups from a cupping set to create a suction (or a partial vacuum) on the skin. This helps to activate the underlying tissues. When the cup is left in place on the skin for a few minutes, blood stasis is formed and localized healing can take place much easier.

Cupping therapy has been further developed as a means to open the 'Meridians' of the body. Meridians are the conduits in the body through which energy flows to every part of the body and through every organ and tissue. There are five meridians on the back that, when opened, allow invigorating energy to travel the whole length of the body. It has been found that cupping is probably the best way of opening those meridians.

In 2012, a study published in the journal PLoS ONE suggests that cupping therapy may have more than a placebo effect.  Australian and Chinese researchers reviewed 135 studies on cupping therapy published between 1992 and 2010.  They concluded that cupping therapy may be effective when combined with other treatments like acupuncture or medications in treating various diseases and conditions, such as: Herpes zoster, facial paralysis and cervical spondylosis.

Cupping has also been found to affect the body, causing tissues to release toxins, activate the lymphatic system, helping to activate and clear the veins, arteries and capillaries. Cupping, the technique, is very useful and very safe.

The Primary Energizing Treatment

The Primary Energizing Treatment consists of creating a suction for approximately 6-8 cups (or as many as fit) across the top of your back. It is best to first have your back massaged with a carrier in order to make it easier to move the cups while keeping the suction in tact. These cups are in a line and are kept in place for approximately 1-3 minutes.

Types of Cupping Therapy

Thee are various types of cupping therapy, including: dry cupping (suction only) and wet cupping, which is a combination of suction and controlled medicinal bleeding.

There are several; ways of creating the vacuum.  Elise uses a small hand pump to create the vacuum inside the cup.   The vacuum causes the skin to rise and redden as blood vessels expand.  The cups are generally left in place for 1-10 minutes.

Cupping is considered to be relatively safe, when performed by a trained health professional.  Potential side effects include:  Mild discomfort, and bruising.  Cupping should be avoided by pregnant or menstruating women, and people with metastatic cancer, deep vein thrombosis, ulcer.