Cupping is an ancient healing modality rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that uses gentle suction to support circulation, relieve fascial tension, and move stagnation of Qi and blood. Treatment may use stationary suction cups (with a manual pump) to hold suction in one place, or silicone/gliding cups to create movement across the skin.

Cupping can be offered as a stand-alone therapy or paired with Acupuncture or TuiNa Massage to enhance relaxation, aid recovery, and support musculoskeletal health.

Before your session, we’ll begin with a short conversation: your current concerns (pain, tightness, mobility, energy, etc.), any relevant health history, and which areas you’d like addressed.

For stationary cups, the cups are placed on locations of stagnation or acupuncture points relating to the treatment goals. Suction applied, and the cups left in place for several minutes.

For gliding cups, cups are moved across the skin. You may feel pulling, warmth, or tingling — often deeply relaxing and rejuvenating.

After treatment, you may notice temporary circular marks or mild discoloration (these are normal; they typically fade over several days). You’ll likely feel looser, lighter, and invigorated.

Cupping can benefit many people, including those who are looking for:

- Relief from muscle tightness, knots, or fascia sensitivity

- Improved mobility and reduced fascial adhesions

- Support for circulation and lymph flow

- Enhanced recovery from exercise or physical strain

- Reduction of pain or discomfort due to tension, stress, or chronic conditions

It can also be helpful as an adjunct to your regular treatments (massage, acupuncture) or for anyone curious about TCM approaches for bodywork.

Q: Will cupping leave marks or bruises?
A: Often yes — particularly after stationary cups. The circular marks or discoloration are a normal response and show areas where stagnation or blood flow was improved. They generally fade over 3-7 days (sometimes sooner).

Q: Is it painful?
A: Most people feel mild pulling, warmth, or pressure. However for longstanding fascial adhesions or or postural imbalances there can be significantly more sensation. If at any point it feels too intense, we’ll adjust, as with every treatment. The aim is therapeutic relief, not pain.

Q: How many sessions will I need?
A: It depends on what you’re looking to address. If there’s recent tension or a specific issue, sometimes one session gives noticeable relief. For longer-standing tightness, adhesions, or post-injury work, multiple sessions spaced a week or two apart may offer the best results.

Q: Can I combine cupping with acupuncture or massage?
A: Absolutely! Cupping often works very well in combination with acupuncture or massage. Sometimes it’s integrated into a session; other times it’s scheduled separately, depending on what feels best for your body.

Q: Are there any reasons I shouldn’t get cupping?
A: We’ll always do a health check first. Some situations where we’ll need to be more cautious (or may recommend waiting) include active skin infections, open wounds, severe fragility of skin, certain circulatory disorders, or if you're on blood-thinners. If you have concerns, just let me know ahead of time.