DIY cupping... Yes or no?

There are very few things that I won’t try once in the name of health (and beauty)—and alternative medicine isn't one of them. I started acupuncture shortly after I got married when I decided it was time to clean up my act (and my body) before my husband and I started trying to make a baby. And let it be known, after six months of acupuncture and herbs, our very first attempt was successful. Cupping was also part of “preheating the oven,” and yes, the sight of round bruises on your back is certainly shocking at first—but there’s no denying the beneficial effects of this strategically-placed circulation-boosting suction.

I’d never, ever entertain the thought of sticking myself with needles to promote energy flow within my body—I mean, acupuncturists go to school for YEARS to learn how to do that whole thing—but wouldn’t you know, a company called Lure Essentials is basically telling us to go cup ourselves. (This was funnier when I said it out loud.)

Their Chakra Cupping Therapy Set includes four pairs of colored caps in different sizes (each is inspired by crystals, including jade, amethyst, rose and citrine) and the treatment options are basically endless. Use them on sore muscles, stiff joints, or on your shoulders when you’re feeling tense, or for an energy boost—and if you add a little body oil into the mix you can move them around to give yourself a deep-tissue massage (although an extra set of hands comes in handy for this one).

I know this may sound a bit intimidating, but you can find tutorials if you do a little poking around on YouTube—and it’s definitely worth a shot if you’re looking for an alternative to popping pills, right?