Cupping in massage therapy is a technique that involves placing special cups on the skin to create suction. It is SUCH a weird sensation the first time, but many people (myself included) LOVE a cupping massage.  The suction pulls the skin and underlying tissue into the cup, which can help increase blood flow, promote relaxation, and alleviate muscle tension.

There are a few types of cupping massages I offer to my clients in Portland, OR:

1. Dry Cupping: This involves placing the cups on the skin without any other substances. The suction is  created by using a pump.

2. Moving Cupping: In this variation, the cups are glided over the skin, often with the help of oil, to provide a more dynamic massage-like experience.

A cupping massage can leave temporary marks or bruises on the skin (generally not painful at all), and these usually fade within a few days. Many people find it beneficial for muscle pain, stress relief, and overall well-being.