The probability is that you have never heard of ‘gua sha’. Yet halfway around the globe in China it is so commonly practised that the people swear by it.
The article will give you a basic insight into ‘gua sha’ so you can research further and perhaps find a practitioner if you want to experience its benefits.
What is gua sha?
Gua sha is a traditional Chinese therapy where a practitioner/ therapist scrapes your skin with a blunt smooth specially designed instrument while pressing on your skin. The aim is to develop small red spots like a rash under the skin. These red dots which look like a rash are called petechiae.
The therapist will apply oil on your body first before doing any scraping.
The practice of gua sha increases the blood flow to the area.
All practitioners of gua sha must sterilise their tools between clients.
What is gua sha also known as?
Gua sha is also called coining.
What type of blunt smooth tool is used for gua sha?
Very often a gua sha therapist will use a flat jade stone or a rose quartz stone.
Can gua sha be practised alongside other therapies?
Yes it can. In China it often accompanies acupuncture and heat therapy. But it can be practised by itself as a stand alone therapy.
What does gua sha help with?
Gua sha may be able to help with the following things:
- Neck pain
- Migraines
- Relieves muscle pain and tension.
- Tourette’s syndrome
- Perimenopausal symptoms such as mood changes and hot flashes.
- Lymphatic drainage
- Reducing inflammation
- Help with sinus problems
On which parts of the body is gua sha normally practised?
Gua sha is normally practised on the arms, legs, bottom, neck and back.
Only an experienced therapist should do gua sha on your face as it should be done with great care and gentle pressure.
What is facial gua sha?
Facial gua sha is when this therapy is practised as part of a facial. It increases the blood flow to the face, removes blockages and encourages the production of collagen and elastin in the skin. Facial gua sha can leave your face feeling firm, less puffy and with a glow.
Are there any side effects of gua sha?
Some people may feel sore in the area they have had treated or they may get some bruising on the skin.
When practised gua sha could break the skin which could lead to infection. But this is rare.
Who should avoid having gua sha?
Anyone who is taking medication for blood clotting should avoid gua sha. Also people with sensitive skin, skin conditions, and open wounds.
How often can you practise gua sha?
You can practise gua sha on your face everyday for about 5 minutes if you wish. On other parts of your body you should practise no more than 10-15 at a time.
If you would like to share your experiences with gua sha please let us know on our forum and social media! Share some of your thoughts with others and start a conversation.
DISCLAIMER
Before you start any new diet, health programme, exercise routine, and ingest or topically use any oil, vitamin, mineral, product or compound, it is very important to consult your doctor, therapist or do a patch test to make sure you do not have any adverse reactions.
We do not offer any form of medical or psychological advice. The information in our wellbeing articles are offered for educational purposes only. Our wellbeing articles are not intended to diagnose, treat or prevent any disease. Thank you.
