Cupping is traditionally used to increase circulation and restore proper blood flow in the muscle tissue, providing relief from muscle pains, strains, aches and the like. It helps release lactic acid stagnation that's deep in the muscle layer and can be used in recovery post-injury, as well as in the early stages of a cold by improving lung function. We have a tendency to hold emotional stagnation in our tense muscles and therefore cupping can also be used to release pent up emotions. 

Glass or suction cups are typically used depending on the area. With glass cups, a vacuum-like suction is created by inserting a flame into the cup, and then the cup is placed quickly onto the skin. The result is not painful - patients typically state that it feels like they are receiving a massage. The cups stay on the skin for no more than 15 minutes and may leave a circular mark as a temporary keepsake. Although these marks may look like bruises, they are actually just the result of bringing up the stagnant blood and fluids to the surface of the body so that fresh, oxygenated blood can restore proper circulation below. The more stagnation there is, the darker the circles. These marks usually last from about 3 days up to a week.