Cupping 101: How It Works & Why It Feels So Good

You may have seen those mysterious round marks on athletes, celebrities, or wellness lovers—and wondered, “What is cupping, and why do people love it so much?”

At Seven Senses Spa, cupping is one of our most powerful massage add-ons. Rooted in ancient healing traditions, this technique offers deep muscle relief, detoxification, and a surprising sense of calm. Here’s everything you need to know before trying it for yourself.

🌀 What Is Cupping Therapy?

Cupping is a form of myofascial decompression. Unlike massage, which uses pressure, cupping uses suction to gently pull the skin and fascia upward.

We use soft silicone or glass cups to create a vacuum seal on your skin, which:

  • Lifts tension from tight muscles

  • Stimulates blood and lymph flow

  • Releases stagnant energy and toxins

  • Supports natural healing

This technique has been used for thousands of years in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Egyptian medicine, and even ancient Greek healing.

💆‍♀️ How Does It Work?

During your session:

  • A therapist applies cups to targeted areas like the back, shoulders, or legs

  • Cups may stay in one place or be gently glided across oiled skin

  • You’ll feel a light pulling sensation—never painful, but surprisingly soothing

  • After a few minutes, the cups are removed and the area is massaged to encourage circulation and relaxation

Most clients say it feels like a reverse massage—instead of pressing in, your muscles are being lifted and stretched.

🌿 Why Cupping Feels So Good

While it may look intense, cupping often provides instant relief from:

  • Deep muscle tightness

  • Upper back and shoulder tension

  • Chronic pain or fatigue

  • Headaches and sluggish circulation

The suction draws fresh blood and oxygen to the surface, promoting faster healing and reducing inflammation.

Cupping also activates the parasympathetic nervous system—the part of your body responsible for rest and recovery. That’s why many clients leave feeling calm, open, and lighter.

What About the Marks?

Yes, cupping can leave temporary, circular marks on the skin. These aren’t bruises—they’re signs of stagnation being released. The darker the mark, the more congestion was in the tissue.

They usually fade within 3–7 days and are a sign your body is responding to the treatment.

When to Try Cupping

Cupping is a great choice if you:

  • Sit at a desk all day and feel upper back/neck stiffness

  • Work out often and need muscle recovery

  • Experience chronic pain or tension that massage alone hasn’t resolved

  • Want a natural, holistic alternative to pain relief

🌺 Let Your Body Breathe

Cupping is more than a trend—it’s a time-tested healing tool. Add it to your next massage at Seven Senses Spa and experience how this ancient therapy can help your body release, reset, and feel brand new.

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