Cupping is an ancient therapeutic practice rooted in traditional medicine systems, particularly Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It involves placing specially designed cups—often made of glass, bamboo, or plastic—on the skin to create suction. The primary aim of cupping is to promote the smooth circulation of Qi (vital energy) and blood throughout the body. In TCM, stagnant Qi and blood are believed to be the root causes of many illnesses and discomforts. Cupping is particularly effective at expelling external pathogens such as Wind, Cold, Dampness, and Heat, which are considered to disrupt the body’s energetic balance. The technique draws these harmful elements out through the pores, helping to restore internal harmony and support the body’s natural healing abilities.

Cosmetic facial acupuncture, a specialty type of acupuncture, aims to improve the appearance of the skin while also supporting general health. This method is done by inserting tiny, sterilized needles into particular facial locations. Facial acupuncture treats not only the external presence of skin aging, but also the internal causes.

Cosmetic facial acupuncture increases collagen synthesis, improves blood circulation, and balances the body’s energy, or “Qi,” by activating particular acupoints. In addition to revitalizing the skin, this all-encompassing method resolves underlying problems that cause premature aging, such as stress, poor digestion, and hormone imbalances.

Gua Sha, a form of massage in Traditional Chinese Medicine, is a scraping technique used in both Eastern and Western medicines due to its numerous benefits. In the Chinese-English Medical Dictionary, Gua translates to “scrape” and Sha translates to “reddish, elevated, millet-like skin rashes”. The term Sha is applied to both a syndrome or evil that is retained in the body and its rash-like expression. Gua Sha targets the Sha within the body by using scraping motions done by a smooth edge to raise the Sha to the surface. The strokes will then elicit petechiae that look like a rash on the surface of the skin, evidence that heat and toxins are escaping the body. Guasha is very similar to the graston technique used by other body workers.

The meaning of the name “Tui Na” is derived from the Chinese language and directly ties to the hands-on-treatment method. The word “Tui” translates to “push” and the word “Na” translates to “grasp.” In China, Tui Na is used to alleviate a wide variety of conditions. Tui Na works on the superficial and deeper muscles while also acknowledging the energy system within the body. All of the body’s organs, tissues, and mind receive energy from Qi, which travels along pathways called meridians or channels. Tui Na helps to facilitate the flow of these networks.

Tui Na is similar to a deep tissue massage. Similarly, some Tui Na methods may be initially uncomfortable for the recipient, but they should never be excruciatingly painful. The tissues and muscles will feel soothed and energized after a strong kneading and pushing massage. Every internal organ and the body’s whole musculoskeletal system are fully stimulated by Tui Na. Both the mind and the emotions will be impacted since it rebalances Qi-flow. After receiving a Tui Na treatment, the patient typically feels happier, more energized, and enlivened. However, like other deep massage techniques, Tui Na can occasionally release emotional energy or have feelings of lethargy. if this does occur it’s important to rest and allow the process of the rest and repair phase versus powering through while fatigued.