It involves scraping the skin gently with a smooth-edged instrument, in order to stimulate microcirculation of the soft tissue and blood flow.
With gua sha, minor bruises may form when small blood vessels break open and blood leaks into the subcutis, the innermost layer of the skin.
These minor bruises should disappear within two to five days, and patients should be able to feel the benefits of the treatment within a few hours.
Gua sha is usually performed on a person’s back, buttocks, neck, arms, and/or legs. There is also a gentler version of the treatment that can be used on the face.
Gua sha, otherwise known as scraping therapy or skin scraping, is a healing technique used in traditional Chinese medicine.
Gua sha is said to have several health benefits, regardless of whether you look at it from the perspective of East Asian medicine or Western medicine.
In traditional Chinese medicine, gua sha is said to promote the circulation of "qi" (vital energy) and blood, the stagnation of which is said to cause pain.
Western medicine, on the other hand, views gua sha as a technique that breaks up adhesions and muscle knots and relieves constrictions, thereby reducing pain.
The gua sha technique may also be effective at treating chest congestion caused by colds, asthma, bronchitis, or other lung conditions.
Indeed, studies suggest that gua sha is effective at alleviating pain in the neck and lower back, and it may even provide longer-lasting relief than other methods, such as heat packs.
Gua sha is also believed to benefit mental well-being. Firstly, it can help modulate the balance between our sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.
It is this balance that allows us to adapt effectively to different situations and prevents us from getting stuck in a situation of chronic stress or overstimulation.
Once you learn the proper technique from a licensed practitioner, gua sha can be a great self-care tool. For example, you can use it on the face to help relieve stress on the facial muscles.
It can also be used on the body as a stress relief technique, since it tackles the systemic effects of stress by improving circulation.
Gua sha also encourages mindfulness, since it is an intentional practice that allows us the time and space to sit with ourselves and our own emotions.
Finally, gua sha can help boost our mood by improving blood flow to both the brain and the body.
Indeed, poor blood flow has been linked to impaired function in specific parts of the brain, and this may contribute to mental health conditions such as depression.
According to dermatologists, most people can benefit from gua sha, since it certainly helps stimulate blood circulation and improve lymphatic drainage.
However, dermatologists are quick to point out that there is little clinical evidence to support other purported skincare benefits, such as boosting collagen or altering facial contours.
People with conditions such as eczema or psoriasis should avoid gua sha, since they may have a damaged skin barrier and it may cause further irritation.
It is also recommended to avoid gua sha for the time being if you have sunburn, an active infection, an open wound, or if you have recently undergone surgery.
Finally, make sure you allow any scraping marks to fully heal before you treat the same area of skin with gua sha again.
If using the gua sha technique for facial rejuvenation, it is recommended you apply mild to moderate pressure only.
Experts recommend that you stop massaging the skin once it begins to redden, since overdoing it can cause damage to the skin and even an abrasion.
Before using your tool, cleanse your skin thoroughly and then apply moisturizer to help the tool move more easily over the skin.
When used properly, gua sha can have several health benefits, both medical and physical. However, it is important to consult a medical professional first if in any doubt about whether this treatment is suitable for you.
Sources: (Verywell Mind) (Healthline)
See also: The mystical and powerful plants of ancient medicine
If using the technique for pain or stress relief, the American Institute of Alternative Medicine (AIAM) recommends applying medium to firm pressure.
It is highly recommended that you learn the gua sha technique from a licensed practitioner before you try it at home, since the practice can be harmful if done incorrectly.
Once you have learnt the technique and you’re ready to start your home practice, make sure you always perform gua sha on clean skin and with a clean tool.
With roots in ancient Chinese medicine, gua sha is a healing practice that involves scraping the skin. Gua sha has several health benefits for both the body and the mind, and as such it has become popular as a skincare technique with people the world over.
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What is gua sha, and how does it work?
The ancient Chinese healing practice
HEALTH Medicine
With roots in ancient Chinese medicine, gua sha is a healing practice that involves scraping the skin. Gua sha has several health benefits for both the body and the mind, and as such it has become popular as a skincare technique with people the world over.
Intrigued? Check out this gallery to learn more.