A traditional Chinese therapy used to treat illnesses and imbalances for over 2,500 years. Originally, the “cups” were made from animal horns, and practitioners used their own lips to create suction. In modern times it is becoming more popular and more recognizable thanks to Olympic athletes. Cupping therapy utilizes the application of local suction to various areas of the body. As muscles become more and more tense, blood flow slows and stagnates, or pools, in those muscles. This form of treatment brings that stagnate blood to the surface for the body to recirculate, causing circular bruises that can last from days to weeks. The darker the bruise, the more tension in that area, and the greater benefit you receive from the therapy.

Traditional Fire-Cupping Technique

A needle-free alternative to acupuncture. Suction created by applying heat to the cup—such as from a lighted candle—hence the name “fire cupping”. At White Cypress, we utilize traditional fire-cupping to create a vacuum (negative pressure) in glass cups. We can do this service alone but often add acupuncture treatments to maximize benefits. Cups are generally left on the body for 5 to 15 minutes.