Cupping
is used to break up stagnation in muscles and soft tissue. Fire cupping involves the use of glass cups which are heated with a flame to create a suctioning effect. The cups are then place on the area being treated (typically the back), and the tight muscle / flesh is sucked into the cup. The cups are then either left in place for several minutes, or they are moved via sliding technique to a new area of skin. This suctioning effect can be very helpful to to release tight muscles and to draw blood to the area in order that healing can occur. It also has detoxification properties, drawing harmful toxins out of the skin. Please note that although cupping does not hurt, it can leave bruises on the area being cupped.