Thigh massage can improve circulation and also tone muscles quite well. This is particularly true when using a “cupping technique”. Cupping involves the use of the cup-shaped hand, and this is then used to tap or “Tapotement” the muscle. This is always done after a preliminary, deeper rubbing action, and the process serves to compress the skin and tissues while improving circulation and tone.

To perform a thigh massage with the cupping technique, the gentler “Effleurage” process should first be used which is based on a smooth, gliding motion that introduces oils into the skin and warms the muscle in preparation for deeper work.

To begin, the receiver is placed on his back with the arms extended comfortably along the sides. The provider will stand in the knee area and place one hand with a flat palm along the lower thigh muscle region. They will place the palm of the other hand on your wrist and use this hand to slowly increase the pressure of your movements. They will start with a single movement of the hand along the muscle and return to the starting position. They will then quickly lift their hands into a cup shape, placing the “pinky sides” of both hands at the starting point and making gentle up and back tapping motions along their initial trajectory. This process is repeated three times along various trajectories of movement, and the rubbing is followed by cupping taps. Pathways of movement tend to include the outer thigh, the upper thigh, and the inner thigh. The process can also be repeated on the reverse of the thigh, with the receiver also lying face down.

The cupping technique tends to improve reflexes and also tone muscles, and is a sure way to increase the quality of circulation throughout the leg. It is always associated with a rubbing technique to avoid discomfort, and the whole process should be opened and closed with a short period of stimulating Effleurage as well.