WHY CUPPING?

Mary Ellen Milks is trained in therapeutic cupping, a unique and healing form of massage therapy that has ancient roots from China, Egypt, and Greece.  

What is cupping?
Cupping is a non-invasive, deep tissue massage technique that uses a negative pressure because it lifts the (fascia) connective tissue, which allows for the decompression of holding patterns in the body. In this treatment, the cups remain stationary to further promote the flow of oxygen and blood through the tissue, which improves circulation and releases tension. It is common to have slight redness after a cupping treatment.

There are many different types of cups and several different ways to use them in a treatment. Mary Ellen uses silicone or hard plastic cups instead of the traditional glass cups. Cups are suction-based and may be applied to different areas of the body where there may be blood stagnation, congestion, and muscle tension. The cups may be applied and sit stationary for 10-20 minutes in a specific area for treatment, and/or they may be used as a massage tool to improve circulation, loosen muscle tension and smooth fascial tissue.

Does it hurt?
The sensations associated with a cupping treatment vary by the individual's health and wellbeing. Sessions begin with a consultation and explanation of cupping and during the session Mary Ellen will make adjustments based on feedback to ensure every individual's comfort.

Does it leave marks on the skin?
Each individual's experience is unique and depends upon the condition of the body's tissues, muscle density and circulatory health. Some people may experience redness after a session, but the discoloration of the skin is simply blood and oxygen being brought into the area to repair tissue, flush toxins, and soften fascial tissue. Mary Ellen will consult with you at the beginning of a session to determine your wellness goals through cupping and discuss your preferred level of pressure. Depending upon a body's health, marks may last anywhere from 24 hours to several days.

What are the benefits of cupping?
Cupping offers a number of healing benefits, but the main benefits include:

  • Increased blood and oxygen flow to the body's tissues and joints

  • Facilitation of lymphatic flow and drainage

  • Improvement in circulatory function

  • Regulation and integration of the automatic nervous system

  • Reduction and removal of pain

  • Relaxation of stiff muscles and tendons

  • Improvement in the secretion of digestive fluids

  • Detoxification through increased fluid flow in the arteries

  • Promotion of an open chest and lungs, thus good for those with respiratory problems

There are some contraindications of cupping that should be considered in cases of severe diseases such as cardiac failure, renal failure, ascites due to hepato-cirrhosis and severe edema, and hemorrhagic diseases such as allergic pupura, hemophilia and leukemia, and clients with dermatosis, destruction of skin, or allergic dermatitis. Cupping should not be applied on the portion where hernia exists or has occurred in the past. For pregnant women, the lower abdomen, medial leg, and lumbosacral region should be avoided.

CUPPING TREATMENTS

Therapeutic Custom Cupping Massage
Different than a traditional massage, cupping is a deeply relaxing experience. Silicone or hard plastic cups are used to massage the body and bring circulation and energy to the layers of fibrous tissue, known as fascia, that surround the muscles. (Silicone cups are used to manually manipulate the tissue, whereas hard plastic cups remain stationary.) This treatment is wonderful for correcting stagnation in the body, improving circulation, reducing inflammation, relaxing sore or tight muscles, and just bringing new energy to overlooked areas of our bodies. It is common to have slight redness after a cupping treatment.

60 minutes | $150.00


Cupping with Electrons+ Massage
This unique treatment combines the principles of the Therapeutic Custom Cupping Massage with Electrons+ for dramatically enhanced repair and restoration of the body at the cellular level. Whether one is looking to heal from an injury, illness, or surgery—or simply looking to boost immunity, reduce stress, or boost circulation, this is a powerful combination for immediate results. Learn more about Electrons+.

60 minutes | $155.00
90 minutes | $205.00
120 minutes. | $275.00

Gift certificates available for all services. Learn more.

All treatments are by appointment only. Please arrive on time. Late arrivals will reduce treatment time.

The following payment methods are accepted: MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Discover, FlexPay, PayPal, and the Venmo mobile app (“@MaryEllen-Milks”).

The information presented on this website about therapeutic body treatments is for educational purposes to help you understand the healing benefits of different treatment options. These therapeutic body treatments are not a substitute for medical care. Information on this website is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. You should consult with the appropriate health practitioner in the case of any medical condition.