This is a widely practised technique throughout the world and was regularly used in the UK until the early 1800's.
By creating suction and negative pressure with cups, and sliding them along the skin on the back, or the feet, legs, or face, cupping is a deep tissue massage that is used to:
Massage with cups still forms part of Traditional Russian Honey Massage and is used prior to performing Honey massage in order to increase the circulation to the skin, so that toxins are more easily absorbed by the honey, and the beneficial nutrients of the honey are more easily absorbed by the skin.
Cupping feels much like having a massage, but is more intensive and it makes it easier for the practitioner to acheive deep tissue work. It is great for removing knots in muscles! Glass or slicon cups may be used and they are not heated for this treatment. Oil is used to lubricate the skin.
Honey is a high acidic and has a hydrogen peroxide effect and has low water activity, which causes osmosis.
The low water content of honey creates a poor environment for the growth of micro-organisms, therefore inhibiting the growth of bacteria.
Hydrogen peroxide is antiseptic and antibacterial, and can be used for wound dressings. Some studies suggest that the topical use of honey may reduce odours, swelling and scarring when used to treat wounds.
The skin feels wonderfully soft and smooth after this massage.
Both these treatments can be used independently as well as together. If you would like a Cupping treatment without the massage, that is fine. Alternatively, you could have the Honey Massage without the Cupping!
