Cupping
Cupping is a technique that uses fire and glass cups to create suction that encourages blood and lymph to flow, easing tension, bloating and stress. The skin and superficial fascia of the body are pulled up gently into the cup, drawing stagnant toxins, heat, energy, or fluid out to the surface. This results in “sha”, aka petechiae, which looks like hickey marks, where each color relates to a different type of stagnation. In terms of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory, the stagnation can be of just about any type: blood, toxins, qi, or dampness. The release of the suction also allows the toxin to be more easily released through the lymphatic system and stimulates fresh oxygen and blood flow to the area, encouraging the body’s natural healing process.
Tired muscles and tendons recovering from athletic training or physical stress need all the oxygen they can get, and cupping helps facilitate vascularization to relieve muscle pain and boost cellular repair. Blood + oxygen = the perfect environment for the affected body part to heal. Cupping is not painful and the process feels similar to the sensation of a deep tissue massage. This treatment includes fire and / or air cupping with a choice of Heart Cupping or traditional circle shaped cups.
By Dr. Alexa Woods
Alexa Woods is a licensed Acupuncturist and board-certified herbalist. She holds her Doctorate in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, Master of Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine from Pacific College and a BA in Developmental Psychology from New York University. She is also a Certified Doula and Reiki Master. The focus of her treatments is to help connect you with your highest health and radiance. Alexa is especially passionate about working with women’s health! She has worked with women to address their unique gynecological and reproductive issues. She loves endocrinology, focusing on returning to cyclical living to help women navigate their hormonal phases and changes throughout their lives.