Ancient healing technique that draws out tension and promotes deep recovery.

Cupping therapy is an ancient healing practice that involves placing specially designed cups on the skin to create suction. This suction draws the skin and superficial muscle layer upward into the cup, increasing blood flow to the area, loosening connective tissue, and stimulating the body's natural healing processes. The technique has been used for over 3,000 years in traditional Chinese medicine, Egyptian healing practices, and Middle Eastern folk medicine.
At Hana Spa, we use modern silicone and glass cups that allow for precise control of suction intensity. The cups may be left in place for several minutes (stationary cupping) or glided across the skin after applying massage oil (sliding cupping). Both methods produce therapeutic results, though the sensation and visual effects differ slightly. Sliding cupping feels similar to a Deep Tissue Massage, while stationary cupping creates a deeper pulling sensation in targeted areas.
Cupping gained mainstream attention after Olympic athletes like Michael Phelps were seen competing with the characteristic circular marks left by the treatment. These marks are not bruises but rather the result of blood being drawn to the surface of the skin, and they typically fade within a few days to two weeks. The marks indicate areas where blood flow was stagnant or restricted, and their appearance is actually a sign that the treatment is working effectively.
Your cupping therapy session at Hana Spa begins with your therapist applying massage oil to the treatment area to allow the cups to glide smoothly. Cups are then placed on your back, shoulders, neck, or other areas of concern. As suction is applied, you will feel a gentle pulling sensation that most clients find pleasantly unusual rather than painful.
The cups may remain in place for 5 to 15 minutes depending on your comfort level and the treatment goals. Your therapist may combine cupping with traditional massage techniques during the same session for a comprehensive treatment. After the cups are removed, you may notice circular marks on your skin that range from light pink to deep purple. These are completely normal and painless, fading naturally over several days. Many clients report immediate relief from tension and a feeling of lightness in the treated areas.
Cupping therapy is well suited for individuals with chronic muscle pain, tight fascia, respiratory issues, or those who have plateaued with traditional massage. Athletes who already enjoy Sports Massage and physically active people use cupping to speed recovery between training sessions. It is also popular among those interested in traditional Eastern healing modalities. If you live in Palisades Park, Cliffside Park, or Ridgefield and want to try something beyond conventional massage, cupping at Hana Spa offers a powerful complement to your wellness routine. Often combined with Deep Tissue Massage or Sports Massage for maximum therapeutic benefit.
Quick answers
Yes, for most healthy adults, when a trained therapist does it with sensible suction.
Hana Spa uses silicone and glass cups, licensed therapists and private rooms with fresh linens. Round marks are expected and usually fade in several days to about two weeks; ask for gentler suction if you need to avoid them. Skip cupping, or ask your doctor first, if you are pregnant, take blood thinners, have a bleeding disorder, bruise very easily, or have sunburned, broken or inflamed skin. Always mention medications and conditions before you start.
Cupping at Hana Spa happens at 520 Bergen Blvd in Palisades Park, six minutes from Fort Lee and the George Washington Bridge.
Guests come in from Englewood, Teaneck, Bergenfield, Leonia and Ridgefield. Parking is free on site and along Bergen Blvd. By bus, NJ Transit 154 stops along Bergen Boulevard and 166 runs on Broad Avenue. From the bridge, Route 4 or Route 46 brings you to Palisades Park. Full directions.
Yes, you can walk in for cupping any day from 9 AM to 11 PM, either on its own or added to a massage.
Many guests pair it with deep tissue massage; ask when you arrive or call ahead. If an event is coming up where your back or shoulders will show, mention it so the therapist can keep the suction gentle. Every session starts with a short conversation about your health history. Booking options.
Hana Spa holds a 4.0 rating from 7 Google reviews and over a decade of practice in Palisades Park.
Cupping is done the traditional way:
Answers to the questions clients ask us most about this service.