Cupping 

What is Cupping Therapy?

Cupping therapy is a traditional healing technique used for centuries in Chinese, Middle Eastern, and Eastern European medicine. It involves placing cups—made of glass, silicone, or plastic—on the skin to create suction. This suction gently pulls the skin and underlying tissues upward, stimulating blood flow, lymphatic drainage, and deep tissue release.

At Gentle Waves Massage & Wellness Centre, we offer professional cupping therapy as a stand-alone treatment or as an enhancement to your massage session.

Who Is Cupping Therapy For?

Cupping is a great option for individuals who:

• Experience chronic muscle pain or stiffness

• Have repetitive strain injuries or postural imbalances

• Are recovering from intense training or athletic events

• Deal with stress-related tension or anxiety

• Want to detox and support immune health

• Prefer alternative or complementary therapies to medication

Whether you're an athlete, a busy professional, or someone seeking natural relief, cupping can be a valuable part of your wellness routine.

What to Expect During a Cupping Session

• Your therapist will place cups on specific areas of tension, pain, or meridian points.

• Cups may be left stationary or gently moved (called *dynamic cupping*).

• You may feel a pulling or suction sensation—this should never be painful.

• After removal, you’ll see circular marks or redness, which usually fade within a few days.

We recommend hydrating well before and after your session to assist detoxification.

What Are the Benefits of Cupping Therapy?

Cupping has both therapeutic and relaxation benefits. While results may vary, many clients report noticeable improvement after just one session.

Physical Benefits:

• Relieves muscle tension and tightness

• Increases blood flow and oxygen to tissues

• Aids recovery from injury, inflammation, or overuse

• Reduces joint stiffness and mobility issues

• Speeds up muscle recovery post-workout

Health & Wellness Benefits:

• Detoxifies the body by stimulating lymphatic flow

• Reduces stress, anxiety, and fatigue

• Supports immune function and circulation

• May alleviate symptoms of migraines and tension headaches

• Helps with respiratory conditions (e.g., asthma, bronchitis)

Risks and Side Effects of Cupping

Cupping therapy is generally safe when performed by trained professionals, but like all therapies, it comes with potential side effects:

Common (and usually mild):

• Circular marks or bruising (typically fades in 3–7 days)

• Temporary soreness or skin tightness

• Mild dizziness or lightheadedness

Less Common (but possible):

• Skin irritation or blistering (if cups are left on too long)

• Allergic reaction to oils or silicone

• Aggravation of sensitive conditions if not properly assessed

Contraindications

Cupping may not be appropriate if you have:

• Bleeding disorders (e.g., hemophilia)

• Blood-thinning medications

• Open wounds, sunburns, or skin infections

• Severe varicose veins or fragile skin

• Fever, infection, or systemic illness

• Cancer or tumors (unless medically cleared)

• Pregnancy (unless directed by your healthcare provider)

Ready to book? 

Ready to experience the benefits of cupping for yourself? At Gentle Waves Massage & Wellness Centre, our trained therapist(s) use safe, effective cupping techniques to help you relax, restore, and heal. Whether you're new to cupping or have tried it before, we’ll tailor your session to your needs.