Cupping therapy has gained popularity in recent years for its many beneficial factors in promoting wellness and aiding in various health conditions. One thing about cupping therapy that always catches someone’s eye are the perfect circle marks it leaves on the skin after a session. These marks range in a variety of colors/shades and each one tells us information about our bodies.
To understand why cupping therapy leaves these circular marks on the skin, you must know what it is! Cupping therapy involves placing cups on the skin and creating a vacuum, which draws the skin and underlying tissues upward. This technique promotes blood circulation, releases muscle tension, and stimulates the body's natural healing processes. If you want to know more about the process of cupping, check out this blog post with some of the most commonly asked questions about cupping treatment.
Cupping Marks
The coloring of the marks is an indication that toxins were successfully released. Although these circular marks tend to have the same color as bruises, they are painless. The different colors can help indicate the level of blood and Qi stagnation, toxin accumulation, or dampness accumulation in your body. Just like bruises, the color of the marks change over time as they fade away. To understand what the cupping marks are telling you about your body, you must base it off the color of the first day.
Shades of Red: Active Circulation and Energy
Vibrate shades of red often indicate good blood circulation and a healthy flow of energy in the treated area. This color suggests that the therapy has successfully increased blood flow, bringing nourishment and oxygen to the tissues.
Dark Purple or Blue: Stagnation and Blockages
Dark purple or blue hues may suggest the presence of stagnation or blockage in the targeted area. These colors indicate that the treatment has helped release congested energy, break up adhesions, and improve the flow of blood and Qi to the region.
Brown: Old Blood and Toxin Release
Brown typically indicates the release of old blood and toxins from deep within the tissues. They are often seen in areas with a history of injury or pain. Cupping helps bring stagnant blood and toxins to the surface to promote healing.
White or Pale: Weak Energy and Cold Imbalances
This may show a deficiency of energy or cold imbalances in the treated area. These colors suggest that the treatment has helped stimulate and refresh the area, promoting warmth and restoring energy.
The colors left behind by cupping therapy can serve as a visual guide to the state of your health and the effects of the treatment. From promoting circulation and energy flow to addressing stagnation and toxin release, the colors provide valuable clues for both practitioners and individuals seeking to enhance their well-being. Remember, it is important to consult with a trained and qualified Physical Therapist who can accurately interpret these colors and tailor the treatment to your unique needs.
