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SAV V Y SELF-CARE muscle fibers similar to longitudinal friction, or (for more intensity) consider circular or cross-fiber movements. In general, we prefer to move very slowly, perhaps slowly enough to see the blood, or sha, moving to the surface before moving forward. Stationary Cups Leaving cups stationary, in one area, is even easier than using moving cups, and they can be placed on the shoulders, chest, low back, forearms, or any areas of tension. They may also be placed over acupressure points to bring more blood and qi to an area. It is recommended that cups be left on one area for no more than 15 minutes, but you may want to start with only a few minutes, keeping a keen eye to watch for changes in coloration. Dark red or purplish marks that begin forming quite suddenly may be indicative of excess sha or stagnation, and we recommend removing the cups before dramatic coloration and/or pinching occur. If cup marks appear afterward, please wait until the marks disappear before using cups on the same area again. CURIOSITY AS SELF-CARE Cupping swung open the door to our curiosity, and through that curiosity we discovered something new that allowed us to keep learning. Plus, it sparked passion! Using curiosity as a self-care move allows us to continue evolving our practice. Resources Chirali, Ilkay Z. Traditional Chinese Medicine Cupping Therapy. 3rd ed. New York: Elsevier, 2014. MedlinePlus. "Bleeding into the Skin." Updated February 13, 2020. Accessed March 2020. www.medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003235.htm. Precautions Please avoid cupping if on blood thinners or if there is a history of anemia, blood disorders, cirrhosis, leukemia, renal failure, or thrombosis, or if you have a high fever. Please do not apply cups over areas of acute inflammation, broken bones, dermatitis, open sores, or varicose veins. Cupping swung open the door to our curiosity, and through that curiosity we discovered something new that allowed us to keep learning. For us—and for right now—cupping has opened us up to play. It has also prompted us to question how else (and with whom else) we can use these new-to-us ancient tools. We are excited, we are having fun, and we want to tell everyone. It is our wish that you continue to find what sparks curiosity in you. Notes 1. TeensHealth from Nemours, "Bruises," reviewed August 2018, www.kidshealth.org/en/teens/bruises.html. 2. Live CE Cupping Training with Medical Qigong Master Peter Paul S.T. Chow, L.Ac., Phoenix, AZ, October 2019. Heath and Nicole Reed are co-founders of Living Metta (living "loving kindness") and want everyone in the world to enjoy the experience of befriending their body. The Reeds lead mindful workshops and retreats across the country and overseas, including Thailand and France, and have been team-teaching touch and movement therapy for 17 years. In addition to live classes, the Reeds offer massage therapy and self-care videos, DVDs, and online trainings, which may be found at www.livingmetta.com. N e w ! A B M P P o c k e t P a t h o l o g y a t w w w. a b m p . c o m / a b m p - p o c k e t - p a t h o l o g y - a p p . 21