Chinese Cupping Massage — what it involves and what to expect
Pulling instead of kneading. Vacuum cupping is one of the oldest Chinese bodywork techniques and the newest item on our menu. Here is what the treatment looks like, where the famous skin marks come from, and why for now you will only find it in Gdynia.
What cupping massage involves
The therapist first warms and oils the skin, then applies cups in which a vacuum forms. Instead of pressing the tissue down — as classic pressure does — the cup gently lifts it. Hence the completely different sensation: a distinct pulling and release instead of the kneading you know from a Chinese massage with acupressure.
The cups work in two ways: glided along the muscles of the back and neck over oiled skin, or left in place for a few minutes where the tension holds hardest — depending on how the body responds.
The marks — the question everyone asks
After the treatment, round red marks usually remain on the skin. They are painless and fade on their own within a few days. It is a normal skin response to the vacuum, not a bruise from an injury — but worth remembering when you plan a visit before a beach trip, a photo shoot or a big occasion in an open-back dress.
Who this technique is for
Cupping is most often chosen by people with stubborn back and neck tension who already know the classic techniques and want a different kind of stimulus. If you are just starting out with massage, first see our guide to the menu — and the mechanics of desk-work tension are covered in massage for muscle tension.
Contraindications
We skip the treatment during fever or infection, with fresh injuries and inflammation, thrombosis, skin changes in the treated area, and in the first trimester of pregnancy. With chronic conditions please check with your doctor first — every visit starts with a short health interview. The full list is in the contraindications guide.
Price and duration
| Option | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Chinese cupping massage | 60 min | 249 PLN |
| Chinese cupping massage | 90 min | 349 PLN |
Booking and the full treatment description are on the Chinese cupping massage page.
All massages and packages are in the price list.
We currently perform cupping only at the Gdynia salon, ul. Redłowska 37/10. The technique is not yet available in Gdansk. If you are not sure the treatment is right for you, say so when booking — we will match another technique.
How to prepare
The same as for any massage: arrive a few minutes early for a shower, avoid a heavy meal right before the session, and tell the therapist which areas are sensitive. Afterwards drink a glass of water and give yourself a moment — more in how to prepare and what to do after a massage.
Ready for real relaxation?
You can book the Chinese cupping massage at the Tera Thai salon in Gdynia — ul. Redłowska 37/10, open daily 12:00–22:00, online booking 24/7.