Cupping and Bodywork

Hands-on therapy that does more than feel good.

Cupping, gua sha, and tuina aren't massage. They're medical bodywork techniques rooted in Chinese medicine that move blood, break up adhesions, release fascia, drain lymph, and reset the nervous system — often in ways that needle work alone can't reach.

They feel good too. But the work they do under the surface is the real reason we use them.

The modalities

Cupping — suction applied via glass or silicone cups to lift tissue, increase local circulation, decompress fascia, and release deep muscular tension. Especially effective for stubborn back, neck, and shoulder tightness, post-workout recovery, respiratory congestion, and chronic pain. Yes, it can leave round marks — those are evidence of stagnant blood being moved out, not bruising. They fade in 3–7 days.

Facial cupping — smaller, gentler cups used on the face to drain lymph, depuff, increase circulation, and stimulate collagen. No marks. Often paired with cosmetic acupuncture.

Gua sha — smooth-edged tool stroked across the skin with oil to release fascia, move blood, drain lymph, and release deep tension. We use it on bodies (for pain and muscular tension) and faces (for tone, drainage, and circulation).

Tuina — therapeutic Chinese massage. A clinical-style bodywork that integrates pressure point work, joint mobilization, and meridian-based techniques. Often used as part of an acupuncture visit to address musculoskeletal patterns.

What we use it for

• Chronic and acute pain — back, neck, shoulders, hips, IT band
• Sports recovery and injury rehab
• Tight fascia, restricted range of motion
• Respiratory congestion, chest tightness
• Stress, nervous system regulation
• Lymphatic drainage and detox support
• Facial tone, puffiness, circulation

What to expect

Bodywork can be added on to an acupuncture session or booked standalone depending on what you need. Cupping marks (when they appear) are temporary and not a sign of injury. Most people feel noticeably looser, more circulated, and calmer immediately after — often with sustained relief over the following days.