What do 'cupping marks' signify in the context of cupping therapy?

Cupping marks signify detoxification processes and areas of stagnation within the body. When the cups are applied to the skin, they create a vacuum that draws blood to the surface, which can lead to discoloration, commonly referred to as cupping marks. These marks indicate the release of stagnant energy and toxins from the tissues, which is a fundamental principle in traditional practices that utilize cupping therapy.

Practitioners believe that the appearance of these marks reflects areas where blood flow may have been restricted or where there is an accumulation of toxins, indicating that the cupping treatment is effectively promoting healing and rejuvenation in those specific regions. The marks often fade over a few days, signaling a successful response of the body’s systems engaged in the healing process. Thus, cupping marks serve as visual indicators of the underlying therapeutic effects of cupping therapy, particularly in relation to detoxification and the improvement of circulation.