What does it mean when the skin turns purple after gua sha or cupping?

Purple discoloration of the skin after gua sha or cupping is likely due to rupture of capillaries beneath the skin during the procedure, resulting in bleeding spots and significant coagulation. This typically appears as dark purple or bluish-purple marks and is considered a normal phenomenon following gua sha or cupping. These therapies can help promote smooth flow of energy through the meridians, relieve stagnation, and relax local tissues and organs.