Cupping for anxiety

The tension we carry in our shoulders, our neck, our chest are all highly related to stress. We often get back massages, neck stretches, and often we forget about our chest.

The thoracic cavity which houses our delicate heart has a very big impact in our emotional well being. Exercises that help strengthen the chest like chest presses, push ups, and the like, are all great for building muscle and improve our aesthetics. However, too much tightness in this area can evoke the undesired emotional feeling of anxiety.

Ever notice you chest tightens up, your heart races, and suddenly you just feel "tense?" This is exactly why we need to release the tension in our chest by taking deep breaths, massage, and "relax."

But how can you relax if you're already tense? Breathing exercises like taking 3 deep breaths with each inhalation counting to 4 seconds and exhaling at 10 seconds is a good start. Tapping the sternum at the midline of the nipple is another great option (that's actually an acupuncture point called Ren 17 that opens up your chest!) Lastly, as this post is intended, cupping.

Cupping is great for a lot of things. However, I found that it has been extremely beneficial for patients who experience chest tension, immediately. Of course, knowing the placement of the cup is important and you definitely need to assess your provider.

I always tell myself and my patients - you have to realize that everything will be okay and life takes it course. Take a deep breath. If you're still in pain, come on in. I'll be here.