Cupping 

Cupping is a form of traditional medicine that originated in China. Cupping is used to draw blood away from tense areas of muscle tissue, break up adhesions (tight muscles), release muscle tension, and increase blood flow. It can be used in conjunction with other forms of massage. 

What to expect:

 

In this case silicone cups are placed on the skin to create “suction”. The cups may be left in one place or moved around the body in a “gliding” fashion. Stretches involving muscle groups may also be performed while the cups on are the client for added release of muscle tissue. 

 

Who can benefit from cupping? Anybody experiencing any of the following:

• Arthritis

• Back Pain

• Neck Pain

• Knee Pain

• Shoulder Pain

• Asthma and other breathing issues

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

• GI issues

• Headaches and migraines

• Hypertension

 

Some people may experience the following after cupping:

• Areas of redness from blood being brought to the surface. These can look like rashes if the cups were moved a lot or look like circles if the cups were left stationary. These marks will subside within 7-10 days

• Mild nausea, but that shouldn’t last more than a few hours

• Lethargic or sleepy, and again, this shouldn’t last more than a few hours

 

You should avoid cupping if you have:

• A heart condition or pace maker,

• Anemia,

• A bleeding disorder,

• Blood clotting problems or are taking blood thinners,

• A skin condition,

• Seizures,

• Or are pregnant.

Himalayan Salt Stone

Himalayan Salt Stones are used in a massage much like Basalt Stones. They are heated to temperature of 120-130 degrees and used with oil to glide along the body throughout the massage for relaxation, increase blood flow, and to help release muscle tension. Himalayan salt stones are made of pink Himalayan Salt and this adds an exfoliating factor to the massage as well. 

 

You should avoid hot stone massage if you have:

• Diabetes,

• Cancer,

• Autoimmune dysfunctions,

• Epilepsy,

• Neuropathy,

• Heart disease,

• A skin condition,

• High Blood Pressure,

• Recent surgeries,

• A sunburn,

• Or are pregnant

 

Aromatherapy

Essential oils (EO's) can be used individually (lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, etc.) or in blends (a combination of EO’s). The EO's are used with a carrier oil and applied throughout the massage. 

 

Benefits of aromatherapy include:

• Increased circulation

• Decreased congestion

• Improved mood

• Relaxation

 

People who suffer from the following can benefit:

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Insomnia

• Nausea

• Pain

 

Note: Aromatherapy is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women. Certain EO’s are not recommended for those with hypertension.