Professional hugs for lonely people. An unusual salon has opened in Poland.

In the city of Katowice, physiotherapist Oleksandra Kapernik has created a business for professional hugs. Clients can attend such sessions once a week and pay 149 zlotys (approximately 1.5 thousand UAH) or 299 zlotys (approximately 3 thousand UAH) for a one-hour or two-hour session respectively.

Oleksandra Kapernik explained that these sessions are especially beneficial for people who live alone, have traumatic experiences, or are afraid of emotional closeness. They seek understanding, support, and comfort through hugs.

“I did not expect that so many people would be interested in this. But it is sad that there are many lonely people. Women who have experienced physical violence from their partners turn to me. Through my therapy, they can understand that touch is associated not only with pain but also with something good, pleasant, and relaxing. If touch is used correctly, it evokes feelings of care and changes one’s outlook on life, anxiety disappears, and life becomes beautiful and safe again,” - Kapernik said.

Initially, clients meet with the hugger and hug, and then discuss their health and possible issues before the session. Sessions end if the client crosses sexual boundaries. Everyone wishing to participate is offered to take a shower and wear a robe.

The hug room is decorated in royal style and equipped with a hydromassage shower and bathtub. Hugs take place on fluffy aromatic pillows to calming music. Clients are offered sweets, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or champagne. All sessions are accompanied by the warmth of a fireplace.

Recently, Iranian footballer Ramin Rezayan was fined for hugging a female fan before a match. He paid 510 million rials (approximately $12,000) for those hugs.