Just Had Cupping? Here’s What to Do Next
If you’ve recently had a cupping session, congratulations on taking a powerful step toward healing and balance!
Cupping is one of Traditional Chinese Medicine’s most time-tested therapies. It stimulates circulation, relieves muscular tension, draws out toxins, and supports the flow of Qi.
But here’s something many people don’t realize: the healing process doesn’t stop when the cups come off.
What you do after your treatment is just as important as the session itself. With the right aftercare, you can minimize common side effects like bruising or fatigue and enhance the benefits of the therapy.
What to Do After Cupping:
After a cupping session, the body needs time to heal and adjust. This is particularly important because cupping increases blood flow and triggers the body's natural detox processes. To support this, proper aftercare practices are essential.
Stay Hydrated: One of the most vital aftercare steps is drinking water. Cupping helps release toxins, and hydration assists the body in flushing these out. Water supports kidney function, allowing the body to rid itself of waste products more effectively. Studies have shown that proper hydration after treatments that stimulate lymphatic drainage, like cupping, enhances recovery by speeding up the detoxification process (Smith et al., 2020).
Rest: Cupping can activate the body’s healing responses, which can sometimes leave individuals feeling tired or relaxed. Resting helps the body recover and make the most of the therapy.
Monitor Skin Health: Natural oils, like coconut oil or shea butter, can keep the skin hydrated and support recovery. They create a protective layer, allowing the skin to heal faster and reducing the visibility of cupping marks.
What Not to Do After Cupping:
For optimal recovery, it’s essential to avoid specific actions after cupping that may interfere with healing.
Avoid Cold Showers or Baths: Cold exposure right after a cupping session may restrict blood flow, reducing the positive effects of the treatment. It’s recommended to wait at least 4–6 hours before showering or bathing. If a shower is necessary, warm water is best. According to a study on recovery post-cupping, those who avoided intense activity and cold exposure reported fewer side effects and longer-lasting benefits (Garcia & Chen, 2022).
Refrain from Strenuous Exercise: Exercise can place additional stress on muscles that have been relaxed by cupping. Exercise may also increase inflammation in the treated areas, so it’s generally best to avoid intense physical activity for at least 24 hours after treatment.
Limit Caffeine and Alcohol Intake: Both caffeine and alcohol can dehydrate the body. Since cupping helps release toxins, staying hydrated is essential to help the body process and expel these substances efficiently.
Ready for Your Next Cupping Session?
Let’s work together to help your body restore balance, release tension, and feel its best.
