Cupping Massage: Definition, Types, and Why It’s Gaining Popularity in 2025

Table of Contents

• What Is Cupping Massage and How Does It Work
• Different Types of Cupping Therapy Explained
• Top Benefits of Cupping Massage for Your Body
• Reasons Cupping Is Trending in 2025
• What to Expect in a Cupping Session with Donna
• How Donna Creates Personalized Cupping Experiences
• Why Choose Donna’s Massage Therapy in Ripon, WI

Cupping massage is an ancient healing practice where suction cups are placed on the skin to improve blood flow and relieve muscle tension. There are mainly two types: dry cupping, which uses suction alone, and wet cupping, which involves controlled skin incisions to remove small amounts of blood. In 2025, this therapy is gaining popularity because more people seek natural ways to address pain and stress. Celebrities and athletes have helped bring attention to its benefits, while therapists now combine cupping with massage for personalized care. With its focus on holistic wellness, cupping offers a gentle way to support both body and mind.

What Is Cupping Massage and How Does It Work

Cupping massage is a unique therapy that uses suction cups placed on the skin to gently pull tissue upward. This suction lifts the skin and deeper muscle layers, increasing blood flow and encouraging muscles to relax. Unlike a regular massage that presses into muscles, cupping works by creating a vacuum effect inside the cups, which stimulates circulation and promotes healing in the targeted areas. The gentle pulling helps loosen tight muscles and release built-up tension through a combination of suction and light massage movements. Another important benefit is that cupping supports lymphatic drainage, which helps the body remove toxins and waste more efficiently. This therapy isn’t new — it has roots stretching back thousands of years in cultures like Egyptian, Chinese, and Middle Eastern societies where it was traditionally used to treat pain, fevers, and inflammation. Today, cupping massage blends these ancient techniques with modern massage practices to offer a non-invasive, effective way to promote overall wellness. Many people find that combining cupping with other massage methods enhances the benefits, making it a versatile tool in holistic health care.

Different Types of Cupping Therapy Explained

Cupping therapy mainly comes in two forms: dry cupping and wet cupping. Dry cupping is the most common type you’ll encounter, especially in massage settings. It works by placing cups on the skin and creating suction either by using heat (like a small flame) or a hand pump. This suction gently pulls the skin upward, increasing blood flow and helping to relax muscles. Sometimes, the cups stay in one spot for about 5 to 10 minutes, while other times, they’re moved across the skin with oil—this is called massage or running cupping, which combines suction with movement for added muscle relief.

Wet cupping, also known as Hijama, takes things a step further by making tiny cuts on the skin after the initial suction phase. The goal here is to draw out a small amount of blood believed to be "stagnant" and causing pain or illness. Because it involves breaking the skin, wet cupping requires strict sterile conditions and careful aftercare to avoid infections. It’s less common than dry cupping and is usually done every 4 to 8 weeks rather than regularly.

For most people seeking cupping as part of their massage routine, dry cupping is a safer and more flexible option. It can be easily combined with other massage techniques to enhance relaxation and healing without the risks involved with wet cupping. As a licensed massage therapist, I focus on dry cupping to provide safe, effective treatments that help with muscle tension, pain relief, and overall wellness.

Type of Cupping	Description	Duration	Frequency	Key Points
Dry Cupping	Uses suction cups to create suction on the skin without breaking the skin.	5-10 minutes	Can be done regularly	Suction by heat or pump; cups stay in place or move over skin (massage cupping); safe and common.
Wet Cupping (Hijama)	Involves suction followed by small skin incisions to draw out blood.	10-15 minutes	Every 4-8 weeks	Requires sterile conditions and aftercare; aims to remove stagnant blood; less frequent than dry cupping.

Top Benefits of Cupping Massage for Your Body

Cupping massage offers a variety of benefits that many find helpful for overall wellness. One of its main advantages is pain relief, especially for chronic issues like back, neck, and joint discomfort. The suction helps relax tight muscles and ease stiffness, making it easier to move and stay flexible. By stimulating blood flow, cupping supports faster healing of tissues, which is great for recovery after sports injuries or muscle fatigue. It also promotes lymphatic drainage, helping your body flush out toxins naturally. Many people notice improvements in skin health since better circulation can reduce inflammation and support conditions like acne or eczema. Cupping also has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can lower stress and anxiety levels. Plus, it encourages better oxygen delivery to muscles and skin, enhancing energy and overall vitality. For those managing arthritis or fibromyalgia, cupping can be a helpful complement to other treatments. After a session, clients often feel refreshed and more relaxed, making cupping massage a gentle, natural way to support both body and mind.

• Helps relieve chronic pain like back, neck, and joint discomfort
• Relaxes muscles and reduces stiffness, improving flexibility and movement
• Stimulates blood flow, supporting faster tissue repair and healing
• Promotes lymphatic drainage, aiding the body in flushing out toxins
• May help improve skin conditions by increasing circulation and reducing inflammation
• Provides a calming effect on the nervous system, helping reduce stress and anxiety
• Supports recovery from sports injuries and muscle fatigue
• Encourages better oxygen delivery to muscles and skin
• Can complement other treatments for arthritis and fibromyalgia pain management
• Many clients report feeling refreshed and more relaxed after cupping massage

Reasons Cupping Is Trending in 2025

Cupping massage is gaining more attention in 2025 for several reasons. Celebrity athletes first brought it into the spotlight when they appeared with those distinctive round marks during major sports events, making many curious about its benefits. Alongside this, more people are turning toward natural and non-invasive health therapies, seeking alternatives that support both body and mind without relying heavily on medications. Research is also catching up, showing that cupping can help with pain relief and reduce inflammation, which encourages more therapists to include it in their treatment plans. Many practitioners now combine personalized cupping with other massage techniques, tailoring sessions to each client’s needs for better results. Advances in modern equipment have made cupping safer and easier to perform, so wellness clinics can offer it with confidence. Social media and wellness blogs have played a big role by sharing stories and information, helping to spread awareness about what cupping can do. This fits well with the growing interest in holistic approaches that treat the whole person, addressing stress, pain, and overall wellness naturally. People want therapies that feel gentle yet effective, and cupping meets that desire. As complementary therapies become more accepted, cupping finds a wider audience. Plus, the visible marks left behind often spark conversations, drawing even more attention and curiosity to this ancient but modern practice.

What to Expect in a Cupping Session with Donna

When you book a cupping session with me, the first step is a personalized consultation where I take time to understand your health history and what you hope to achieve. This helps me tailor the treatment specifically for you. The session takes place in a calm, cozy room designed to help you relax and feel comfortable throughout. I use dry cupping techniques with silicone or plastic cups, gently applying suction that creates a light pulling sensation on your skin. It’s normal to feel this gentle tug, but it should never be painful. The cups may be left in place or combined with massage movements to enhance muscle relaxation and blood flow. Sessions usually last about one hour, but I offer flexible options if you want a longer treatment. After the session, you might notice circular marks where the cups were placed; these are temporary and typically fade within a few days. I’ll provide simple aftercare advice like drinking plenty of water, resting, and paying attention to how your body responds in the hours and days after treatment. Safety is a priority, so all my cups and equipment are thoroughly cleaned and sterilized before each use. I encourage you to ask any questions you have before or after the session so you feel confident and informed. Sessions are priced at $100 per hour, with package deals available if you want multiple sessions to support your wellness journey.

How Donna Creates Personalized Cupping Experiences

Each cupping session with me begins with a detailed review of your health and massage preferences so I can understand your unique needs. I combine dry cupping with targeted massage techniques to focus on the areas that require the most attention. Throughout the session, I adjust the suction strength and cup placement based on your comfort level and goals, ensuring the treatment feels supportive and effective. My approach blends traditional cupping methods with modern massage therapy to create a balanced experience that promotes healing and relaxation. I keep the treatment plan flexible, modifying it as your body responds to maximize benefits. In some sessions, I include additional techniques like gentle stretching or heat therapy to enhance results. Creating a safe, nurturing environment is a priority, so you feel relaxed and cared for during every visit. I also take time to educate you about what to expect during and after the session and offer tailored aftercare advice to support your recovery and wellness. With over 20 years of experience, I customize each treatment to help you find relief from pain, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being.

Why Choose Donna’s Massage Therapy in Ripon, WI

With over 20 years of experience in massage therapy and cupping, I bring both skill and care to every session. My approach goes beyond just physical relief—I focus on healing the whole person: body, mind, and soul. Each treatment is designed specifically for you, ensuring it fits your unique needs and wellness goals. Clients in Ripon trust me because I provide professional, compassionate service in a calm and welcoming environment. I use only clean, professional equipment and follow strict safety standards to keep you comfortable and safe. Pricing is clear and straightforward at $100 per hour, with flexible session lengths to suit your schedule. I stay up-to-date on the latest techniques in massage and cupping to offer you effective, modern care. Beyond the session, I support your ongoing health with personalized advice and follow-up, helping you maintain wellness long after you leave my clinic.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What exactly is cupping massage and how does it work?

Cupping massage is a therapy where cups are placed on the skin to create suction. This suction helps increase blood flow, relax muscles, and promote healing by drawing out tension and improving circulation.

2. Are there different types of cupping massage, and how do they differ?

Yes, there are several types like dry cupping, wet cupping, and moving cupping. Dry cupping uses suction only, wet cupping involves small skin pricks to draw out blood, and moving cupping involves sliding the cups around to massage the muscles.

3. Why is cupping massage becoming more popular in 2025?

Cupping is gaining popularity because more people are looking for natural ways to relieve pain and stress. Modern athletes and wellness experts are also promoting it for faster recovery and overall well-being.

4. Is cupping massage safe for everyone, or are there any risks?

For most people, cupping is safe when done by trained professionals. However, it might not be recommended for those with skin conditions, bleeding disorders, or who are pregnant without medical advice.

5. How long do the effects of a cupping massage usually last?

The benefits, like reduced muscle tension and better circulation, can last several days to a week. Some people notice immediate relief, while ongoing sessions can help maintain the effects over time.

TL;DR Cupping massage is an ancient therapy using suction cups to improve blood flow, relieve muscle tension, and promote healing. In 2025, more people are turning to cupping for pain relief, detoxification, and relaxation, thanks to celebrity endorsements and a growing interest in holistic health. There are two main types: dry cupping, commonly used in massage, and wet cupping, which involves bloodletting. As a licensed massage therapist in Ripon, WI, I offer personalized dry cupping sessions combined with massage to support your body’s natural healing in a safe and comfortable setting. If you’re curious about trying cupping, my services focus on your unique needs to help you feel renewed and balanced.