Cupping
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the body is seen as a connected whole, not separate parts. Practitioners look at how different areas relate to each other to choose the best treatment. With cupping, this means finding the right points and meridians to treat and using the right size cups. This helps make sure the therapy is focused and effective for your body’s needs.
What is cupping used for?
Cupping is used to support a wide range of physical and emotional health concerns, including:
Muscle tension and tightness
Pain relief (especially back, neck, and shoulder pain)
Poor circulation
Respiratory conditions like cough, asthma, and colds
Stress and anxiety
Fatigue and low energy
Digestive discomfort
Detoxification
It’s also commonly used as part of recovery for athletes or anyone with physical strain or overuse injuries.
The Process
During your treatment, round glass cups are used. Suction is created from a flame which is quickly inserted and removed before the glass is placed into position.
This suction gently draws the skin and superficial muscle layer into the cup, increasing blood flow to the area and releasing tight fascia and muscle knots.
Cups may be left in place for a few minutes or gently moved along the muscles in what’s called "sliding cupping," depending on your specific needs.
How does cupping affect my body?
Cupping works by:
Stimulating blood and lymph flow
Loosening fascia and connective tissue
Encouraging the release of toxins
Supporting the immune system
Calming the nervous system
This therapy helps your body to let go of physical tension and emotional stress, encouraging a deep state of relaxation and restoration.
How will I feel after cupping?
Most people feel relaxed, lighter, and more mobile after a session. You may notice:
A sense of relief from tightness or pain
Improved range of motion
Feeling calm and grounded
Mild fatigue or soreness (similar to a deep tissue massage), which usually passes within a day
I recommend resting, drinking plenty of water, and keeping the cupped areas warm and covered after your session to support the body’s natural healing response.
Will cupping leave marks?
Yes, cupping can leave temporary circular marks where the cups were placed. These marks are not painful and are a normal part of the healing process. The colour and intensity of the marks vary depending on the individual and the condition being treated. They usually fade within a few days to a week.
While they look similar, cupping marks are not bruises. A bruise is from broken blood vessels due to an injury. Cupping uses suction to pull stagnant blood and fluids to the surface from deeper tissues. The vessels are mostly intact, and the mark is a sign that your body is releasing old buildup, which is why it often feels relieving rather than painful.