Michael Phelps Uses it, Reflexology & Cupping Gaining Popularity

Reflexology & Cupping expert Deng Rong says: There are nerve endings in our feet that lead to our heart & spleen.

(Photo: AP Screengrab)

Last year, it wasn't just Michael Phelps' big win in the Rio Olympics that had people talking about the U.S. swimming star. It was also the dark purple circles on his shoulders. Phelps, who won the 19th Olympic gold medal of his career in Rio and helped the U.S. men's team to victory in the 4x100 meters freestyle relay, is one of a number of Olympic athletes practicing "cupping," an ancient Chinese healing practice.

During the therapy cups are placed on the section of the body in need of repair to create suction. The method is said to draw out any toxins, mobilize blood flow, soothe sore muscles and even help cure insomnia.

Actresses Gwyneth Paltrow, Jennifer Aniston and pop star Justin Bieber have also been photographed with the distinctive large circles on their backs and chest.

Watch this video demonstration by a Chinese Foot Reflexology and Cupping expert Deng Rong to know more about the soothing and calming technique.

Cupping technique uses heat and vacuum in its process. (Photo: iStock)

An example of a reflexology chart, demonstrating the areas of the feet that practitioners believe correspond with organs in the “zones” of the body. (Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia)

Michael Phelps created a stir with the cupping marks over his skin, during the Rio Olymopics. (Photo: Reuters)

(With inputs from Reuters)

Video Editor: Purnendu Pritam