Bamboo & cupping massage

Bamboo and cupping are two ancient tools that answer the same request: reaching the tension that hands alone cannot undo. In bamboo massage, warmed and oiled sticks of different lengths are rolled and pressed along the muscles. Their smooth, firm surface allows deep, even pressure without tiring the therapist or jabbing the muscle.

Cupping, or ventosa, works the other way round: instead of pressing, the cups lift. Placed on oiled skin and moved slowly, they draw the tissue upwards, loosen the fascia and bring blood to the area being worked. Both techniques are offered at Izzy Studio on Route des Creux in Verbier, in 60-minute sessions.

Who is it for?

For backs that have been pulling for weeks, shoulders locked by laptop work, and heavy calves and thighs after several days of skiing in Verbier. Bamboo appeals to guests who like strong, precise pressure; cupping is better when the area is too sensitive to press, or when the main goal is to get circulation going. If you are unsure, say so when booking and we will guide you. For a more all-round approach, the sports & deep tissue massage is available at both addresses.

How the treatment goes

1. Welcome and consultation We identify the areas to work on and the level of pressure you want. If you need to avoid marks before an event, now is the time to mention it.
2. Warming with oil The therapist starts with a warm-oil massage to prepare the muscles. No tool is ever used cold on an unprepared muscle.
3. Bamboo or cupping With bamboo, the sticks roll along the muscles and then pause on the knots with sustained pressure. With cupping, the cups glide slowly over the back or legs, or rest for a few minutes on the tightest points.
4. Finishing by hand The hands take over to smooth the areas worked, drain and check that the tension has truly released.
5. Back to calm A few minutes of rest, a glass of water, and simple advice for the following days: move gently, drink, do not overload the area.

Benefits

• Knots and trigger points released
• Circulation boosted
• Chronic stiffness eased
• Looser fascia

Good to know

Cupping can leave round red or purplish marks for a few days: they are painless and fade on their own, but avoid the session just before a wedding or a photo shoot. The Studio is closed on Sundays and has parking on site. To extend the effect, a lymphatic drainage the following week is a good idea; the treatment is also available as a gift card. Not recommended with clotting disorders, damaged or very fragile skin, significant varicose veins in the area, or during pregnancy. Please tell us about any ongoing treatment.

Frequently asked questions