Cupping and Gua Sha

 

Cupping and gua sha are massage techniques performed primarily to release tension from overstressed muscles.  Cupping uses suction to this end while gua sha uses friction. I find myself using these techniques quite frequently, as I treat a ton of people with stiff necks and shoulders and aching lower backs. These techniques can be performed on other parts of the body as well and are also used for other reasons.   They are simple techniques not widely known of in our culture, but in many cases can provide great and quick relief of pain.