There are several methods of creating a vacuum with cupping. Traditionally, cupping was performed by creating a vacuum with fire in a glass cup. Today, most practitioners are using simpler methods of cupping, such as the suction cups pictured here. The vacuum is created with a tool that sucks the air out of the silicone cups.
Cupping is a very strange feeling. The cups can be applied with different levels of suction. If you feel that the suction is too much (it starts to feel painful), the suction can be adjusted. Often it may feel uncomfortable for a few minutes, but it quickly lessons. You can stay with the cups on you for 10-30 minutes.
The cups are most often used on the back, especially the low back or along the spine. Occasionally the are used on the arms, hips, or legs.
After cupping folks usually have small circular red or purple marks for 24-48 hours. The area does not hurt but looks quite strange.
