Cupping: More Than Just Marks

Cupping has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years. You may have seen the circular marks on someone’s back and wondered what it’s all about. Don’t worry—they’re temporary, and they aren’t harmful. In fact, cupping can be a really effective way to support your body’s natural healing.

Cupping works by creating gentle suction on the skin. This helps increase blood flow to tight muscles and fascia, reduces tension, and encourages your body to clear stagnation. Many clients notice that areas that felt stiff or sore loosen up quickly after a session. Some people also experience a sense of relaxation or even emotional release—it’s as if their body has been given permission to reset.

People use cupping for all sorts of issues, including:

• Muscle tension and soreness

• Back, neck, and shoulder stiffness

• Headaches

• Stress relief

• Circulation support

  
  

The marks themselves usually fade in a few days and can even act as a useful guide to show where your body was holding tension. Cupping can be combined with massage, acupuncture, or other therapies to enhance results.

In my practice, I use cupping gently, paying attention to how your body responds. It’s not about leaving a mark—it’s about helping you feel more relaxed, aligned, and free to move.

If you’ve been curious about cupping, it can be a surprising and effective tool to help your body release tension and support overall wellness.