Cupping and Gua Sha Therapy in Classroom or on Zoom
FULLY ACCREDITED BY THE CMA and IPHM
Wednesday 15th April 2026
Cupping & Gua Sha Therapy Training
Cupping and Gua Sha are two of the most time-honoured and effective methods within Chinese Medicine for releasing stagnation, restoring flow, and revitalising the body’s natural healing intelligence. In this training, these complementary therapies are taught together to create a powerful, clinically relevant and deeply therapeutic treatment approach.
Cupping Therapy
Cupping is one of the oldest and most effective methods of releasing stagnation in the body’s tissues and organs. Also known as fire cupping, body vacuuming or the horn method, cupping involves applying a partial vacuum using heat or suction in bell-shaped vessels placed on the skin.
The suction gently draws the tissues upward, increasing the flow of blood, lymph and Qi to the affected area. This enhanced circulation helps to draw stagnation, metabolic waste and toxins away from deeper tissues toward the surface for elimination.
Cups may be left stationary or glided over oiled skin to create a deep, penetrating massage that is powerful yet comfortable and non-painful.
Cupping is a safe, non-invasive and cost-effective technique used to relieve muscle tension, joint pain, respiratory congestion, fatigue, stress patterns, and a wide range of internal and musculoskeletal conditions.
Gua Sha Therapy
Gua Sha is a traditional Chinese Medicine technique often described as “scraping,” yet its effect is far more refined and intelligent than the name suggests. This practice is profoundly effective in releasing stagnation of Blood and Qi within the meridian channels, while also improving the health and mobility of connective tissue, fascia and muscle fibres.
Gua Sha assists lymphatic movement, supporting detoxification and the removal of metabolic waste, and is highly effective for working on muscular adhesions and chronic tension patterns. Simple in method yet remarkably powerful in outcome, Gua Sha quickly restores fluidity and vitality to the tissues.
Facial Gua Sha is also taught as part of this training, offering a natural way to enhance blood, Qi and lymph circulation in the face. The result is improved tone, radiance, oxygenation of tissues and a healthy, nourished glow.
Tools & Techniques Taught
On this course you will learn how to work confidently with a wide variety of professional tools, including:
- Jade, Rose Quartz and Carnelian Gua Sha stones
- Bian Stone tools
- Stainless steel instruments and spoons
- Silicone massage cups for foundational cupping techniques
- Oil application and integrated massage methods
Teaching Experience
I have been teaching Gua Sha for over fifteen years and feel truly privileged to share this wonderful modality with practitioners who wish to deepen their skills and confidence in hands-on therapeutic work.
Course Format
Training can be attended in person or live on Zoom, making it accessible wherever you are.
Entry Requirements
This course is suitable for those already qualified in Anatomy & Physiology and Massage.
Overview of the training:
Cupping & Gua Sha Therapy Training – Course Outline
- What is Gua Sha? – Origins, principles and modern application
- Yin Yang Theory – Understanding balance, stagnation and flow
- Lymphatics & Circulation – Blood, lymph and fluid movement
- Benefits of Gua Sha – Fascial, Musculoskeletal, lymphatic, Vascular energetic and facial rejuvenation
- Gua Sha Techniques – Body and facial application, stroke methods and sequences
- Cupping Techniques – Static and moving cup methods and massage integration
- Contraindications – Safe practice and treatment limitations
- Client Consultation – Health intake, consent and treatment planning
- Aftercare Advice – Post-treatment guidance and home support
- Health & Safety – Hygiene, therapist posture and professional practice
- Anatomy & Physiology – Skin, fascia, muscle, circulatory and lymphatic systems
- Meridian Lines – Pathways, stagnation patterns and energetic application
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Course Information:
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