![What Is Cupping?](http://townsquare.media/site/482/files/2016/08/Cupping.jpg?w=980&q=75)
What Is Cupping?
We are in the middle of the Summer Olympics in Tokyo for 2020, even though it is technically 2021. While a lot has changed since 2016 in Rio, one thing that did not change is cupping! Those spots on the athletes are just as prevalent as ever!
Let's revisit this piece I did in 2016 to learn more about cupping! The story below was originally done in August of 2016.
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One of the big 'things' to come out of this year's Olympics is the trend of cupping. Even though it's an ancient Chinese practice and has been done for a long time, a lot of people were introduced to it thanks to Michael Phelps.
Michael Phelps and other Olympians have been seen with bruises in the shape of circles on their shoulders and backs, leaving many to question what is going on? Well, cupping is going on.
According to Healing Touch Massage's website cupping is described as:
By creating suction and negative pressure, massage cupping is used to drain excess fluids and toxins; stimulate the peripheral nervous system; bring blood flow to stagnant muscles and skin; and loosen adhesions, connective tissue and stubborn knots in soft tissue.
I wanted to understand cupping more so I went straight to the source! I went to Amanda at Healing Touch Massage and this is what happened.
As you can see, I did get pretty red and I was surprised that it only took a few minutes to show.
It really didn't hurt though. It wasn't sore the next day either. I got pretty red so I guess I needed some loosening up.
Thanks again to Healing Touch Massage for helping me out.
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