06/11/2026
The Story Behind the Marks 👇
This photo always gets attention.
The first question I hear is:
“Are those bruises?”
And the second:
“Did that hurt?”
The answer is a little more nuanced.
These marks are not bruises or hickies. They are the result of negative pressure created by the cups, which draws blood and fluids to the surface of the tissue. The discoloration is often referred to as a sign of stagnation, congestion, or restricted circulation within the tissues.
💡 Darker does not always mean worse.
The color, intensity, and duration of the marks can be influenced by many factors including:
• Tissue health
• Circulation
• Hydration
• Inflammation
• Previous injuries
• Stress on the body
• How long the cups are left in place
What you’re seeing here is also the result of years of working with this client. Effective bodywork isn’t about being aggressive—it’s about understanding how each person’s body responds. Knowing when to go deeper, when to back off, and how much stimulus the tissue can tolerate is what creates lasting results.
Every client is different.
Every session is different.
And more cups or darker marks do not mean a better treatment.
The goal isn’t to leave marks.
The goal is to help the body move, recover, and function better.
Have you ever tried cupping therapy? What was your experience? 👇
