Gua Sha is a traditional healing practice with deep roots in East Asian medicine. It has been practiced for over 2,000 years, with origins in ancient Chinese medicine making it an integral part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
Gua sha involves using a smooth-edged tool to scrape the skin. The scraping is typically performed in a firm but gentle manner, usually with short strokes, across specific areas of the body. The technique is applied to areas of the body where there is pain, stiffness, or tension. It’s commonly used on the back, neck, shoulders, and limbs.
Traditionally, gua sha tools are made from materials like jade, horn, or ceramic. Modern variations may use plastic or stainless steel, as these can be easier to sanitize for clients. The tools have a smooth, rounded edge to avoid causing abrasions to the skin.
What is gua sha?
how does gua sha work?
Gua Sha aims to improve circulation, release muscle tension, and promote healing.
It is believed that gua sha can alleviate muscle and joint pain, reduce inflammation, and improve overall vitality.
The scraping action causes micro-trauma to the skin, which is believed to stimulate the body's natural healing processes. This includes increased blood flow and the release of tension in muscles.
While gua sha is traditionally rooted in cultural practices, recent studies have explored its effects on pain relief and inflammation, providing some scientific support for its benefits.
What can i expect in a gua sha session?
We will typically start with a brief consultation to understand your health concerns, symptoms, and overall well-being. I’ll ask about any pain, stiffness, or areas of discomfort.
You’ll usually be asked to lie down or sit in a comfortable position. The area to be treated (commonly the back, neck, shoulders, or limbs) will be exposed, and argan or coconut oil will be applied to your skin to help the gua sha tool glide comfortably.
Using the smooth-edged gua sha tool, a firm yet gentle pressure will be applied to the area while moving the tool in short, controlled strokes to bring up the ‘sha’ or petechiae (red pin point dots on the skin). The pressure can range from mild to firm, depending on your comfort level and the session goals. You might experience sensations ranging from mild discomfort to a deep sense of relief. It’s normal to feel a bit of soreness or sensitivity during and after the session. The skin may appear red or slightly bruised in the affected areas, which is a normal response. This typically resolves within a few days and is a sign that the session has been affected.
You will typically need more than one gua sha session to resolve an issue, particularly if it involves an older injury or chronic pain.
