What are those circles on your back did you get attacked by an octopus?!

If you've ever watched a swimming competition with Michael Phelps on TV you might've wondered what those dark circles around his Lattisimus Dorsi/trapezius muscle are.

Cupping is an alternative healing method to alleviate pain and tension, boost circulation and even regulate Qi. With more blood flow to the muscles, the process of applying glass, silicone or even plastic cups to the body has many immune boosting effects.

Personally, the experience of a cupping session is relaxing, minorly painful and what some people think are bruises are just oxygenation and blood coming to the surface. The different pigmentations of the skin after a cupping session, which can last anywhere from 3 days to 2 weeks, also reveal specific deficiencies or conditions. As massage therapists, it is out of our scope of practice to diagnose any clients but a lot can be revealed from a cupping session. Even just by palpating the superficial areas of tension a massage therapist can usually tell a persons state of wellbeing, including if they are drinking enough water.

Cupping is an ancient method of healing that can provide relief for specific concerns, including limited range of motion and according to Tradition Chinese Medicine unblock meridians and regulate the Qi flow.

I highly recommend receiving a cupping session at least once, it can provide you with a lot of relief.