This year’s Olympics are now in full swing and it’s all eyes on the athletes.
From archery and shooting to athletics and gymnastics, there’s all kind of sports taking place across Paris, France, at the moment.
One fan-favorite sport to watch is the swimming, and this year there’s a whopping 854 athletes from 187 different countries competing.
But there’s a common theme you might have spotted with some of the swimmers and that’s the unusual dark red circles they have on their backs.
While it might look like they’ve had a fight with an octopus and lost, there’s a very different reason for the odd markings.
It turns out that the large spots are from cupping therapy – an ancient healing technique that involves placing cups on the skin to create suction and increase blood flow to the area.
The unconventional method is supposed to help with muscle recovery and is used as a type of deep tissue massage.
Some athletes were spotted with cupping therapy bruises back at the Rio Olympics in 2016, and it’s still seemingly popular now.
Gymnast Alexander Naddour told USA Today back in 2016 that cupping was supposedly the ‘secret’ to his health.
He added: “It’s been better than any money I’ve spent on anything else.”
Away from the Games, basketball player Kyle Singler has also praised cupping therapy.
“The bruises do look more intense than what they actually feel like, but the benefit from it is really great,” he previously insisted.
Singler continued to tell Sports Illustrated: “You’re not necessarily getting the immediate response that you might want but over time it does help with recovery and loosening tissue and stuff like that.”
But does cupping therapy actually work according to experts? It’s seems as if the jury’s still out.
According to Harvard Health, some studies have found that cupping might provide some relief for a number of musculoskeletal and sports-related conditions. The quality of this evidence was ‘limited’, however.
Elsewhere a 2022 review found that wet (as opposed to dry cupping) was effective for lower back pain.
While the bruises people get from cupping are pretty gnarly, the therapy is generally seen as safe to practice – even if people aren’t 100 percent on how affective it is.
“Most experts agree that cupping is safe. As long as those treated don’t mind the circular discolorations (which fade over a number of days or weeks), side effects tend to be limited to the pinch experienced during skin suction,” Harvard Health explains.
“It’s quite unusual that cupping causes any serious problems (though, rarely, skin infections have been reported).”
There you have it, folks.
5+ Astonishing Things That Make Curvy Women Absolutely Irresistible to Men
Men really like plus-size women, and they openly talk about why they like them on social media. It’s not only about their bodies, though. Curvy women can capture their hearts with their self-assurance, charm, and irresistible appeal. Their curves are just a bonus that makes them even more attractive.
1. Their hugs are truly amazing.
One thing that stands out is snuggling. Many men enjoy cuddling with their partners, and curvy girls have an advantage in this area. One man said, “I like bigger women for the same reason I like my body pillow more than my regular pillow.”
2. Positivity comes naturally to them.
Curvy girls are never boring to be around because of their positive, fun, and kind personalities, which are also quite interesting. They love to chat and keep the relationship lively. It’s these qualities that make them truly special.
3. Dining with a curvaceous woman brings much joy and pleasure.
A man explained, “Eating is one of life’s great pleasures. It’s one of the best things to do on a date. It’s one of the best relationship activities after you’re married.” He agrees that occasionally following a diet is essential for maintaining good health if it’s a priority for you. However, it shouldn’t become your main focus in life.
4. Their confidence is unmatched.
Men have noticed two important qualities in curvy women that they really like. The first quality is their ability to handle difficult situations. Through challenging experiences, they have developed confidence and learned to accept and appreciate themselves just as they are.
5. They are incredibly nurturing and compassionate.
In general, bigger women have exceptional nurturing qualities. Men see them as more caring and loving, always putting the needs of others first. Additionally, curvy women really enjoy spending quality time with their partners. They find joy in even the simplest things, like cooking together, playing, laughing, and having deep, meaningful conversations.
6. Their figures are adored by men everywhere.
Men are naturally attracted to women who have curvier bodies because they find their physical features appealing. They particularly like well-defined thighs and hips, which are the qualities they look for in a partner. They find the curvier features attractive and intriguing.
Women are gorgeous just like they are, with all their unique body shapes. They deserve to be loved for who they are beyond superficial judgments. In today’s world of social media, where beauty standards are forced upon us, it can negatively impact those who struggle with self-confidence. It’s crucial to remember that our differences are what truly make us beautiful.
Preview photo credit ashleygraham / Instagram, ashleygraham / Instagram
Leave a Reply