In Chinese medicine, gua sha is an ancient technique that can be used to relieve acute or chronic musculoskeletal pain, improve circulation and reduce inflammation, support the immune system and address upper respiratory illnesses, and release tension in areas where there is restricted movement. It can even be used for beautifying techniques like de-puffing and lifting skin
We use a smooth, hand-held tool to press and stroke on skin lubricated with oil, almost like a “scraping” technique. These tools are commonly flat stones or a roller, usually made from jade or other semi-precious stones like rose quartz. Jade is considered a Yin stone for its cooling nature to alleviate inflammation. You can also use a rounded ceramic soup spoon..
Gua means “to rub” and sha refers to the reddened marks indicating where blood stagnation or heat is trapped in the body. The quality, color, and location of the sha are part of our Chinese pattern diagnosis. Gua sha is done in one direction and in even strokes to create the sha that is raised from repeated scraping. These marks represent superficial broken capillaries, which promote an anti-inflammatory and immune response to improve circulation.
