Cupping

An ancient Chinese practice in which heated glass cups are placed on the body to pull in the skin and superficial muscle layer. This pulls out stagnation from the muscle level and promotes the circulation of fresh blood to the area in order to facilitate healing. Cupping is most often indicated for pain, but may also be used to benefit a number of ailments including gastro-intestinal disorders, chronic cough, asthma, bronchitis, and insomnia. The skin will become reddened due to the congestion of blood flow in the area, and bruising afterward is an expected response.