Cupping
Using negative pressure, a suction tool (such as a silicone cup) pulls skin and underlying tissues outward. The anti-compressive force creates space, inviting in fluid flow and heat. This flow brings movement to previously stagnant or compressed tissues.
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Cups can be moved or stationary. Moving cups encourage fluid and heat flow throughout the body, and stationary cups work more directly to heal deep-set adhesions and binds.
Stationary cupping will often leave discoloring on the skin. These marks are red, purple, or brown and can last for several days. In eastern theory, the color of these marks convey what is happening under the skin. It is best to keep these marks covered if possible, for in eastern theory the pores are more vulnerable to outside invaders such as cold air and excessive sunlight.
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Cupping dates back to 200 BC (China) and 1500 BC (Egypt). It has been a widespread global practice, found and used in Arabia, Europe, SE Asia, Asia, Russia, N. Africa, and the Americas. In the western world, it has gone in and out of favor, but has risen back into the spotlight with celebrity use. Asian practitioners have consistently and persistently carried this tradition of healing forward. China sees the value of cupping and incorporates it into their modern hospital and health care systems.
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Cupping is a free add-on to any treatment.
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