Many Americans were introduced to cupping when Gwyneth Paltrow wore her cupping marks to attend a New York film premiere. Cupping is another time-tested traditional Chinese therapy. It is done by applying suction cups to the skin to invigorate vital energy and blood in the body and remove waste products trapped in the outer layer. Amount of suction is controlled by the acupuncturist. Although it is commonly used for muscle pain and stiffness and to avert colds and flu, it can address many other pathologies. There is no pain but there will be bruising that lasts for a few days.