Are you keen on trying the benefits of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) but you’re not sure where to begin? With a range of different TCMs to choose from, you may be looking for the simplest one to get introduced to the concept. Ever heard of Gua Sha?

Gua sha (pronounced as “gwa-shah”), is a Chinese healing technique that is as popular as the acupuncture Brighton locals use to heal everything from headaches to irregular blood flow. What exactly is Gua Sha and how will it benefit your current health? Keep reading to find out.

Gua Sha Explained

Commonly referred to as coining, spooning, or skin scraping, Gua Sha refers to the concept of using a smooth-edged tool to firmly and repeatedly stroke the skin in one direction. The process involves applying a serum or oil to the area you need to stroke.

This oil will make it easier for the tool to easily glide across your skin. This practice is generally believed to break up any stagnant energy, commonly referred to as Chi. Stroking the skin helps improve blood flow, which in turn reduces inflammation.

Gua Sha tools can be made from a range of different materials which include the following:

Bian stone: As an ancient stone widely recognised for its therapeutic properties, a typical Bian stone is dark green or black and has a slightly rough texture.
Jade: Slightly softer than the Bian stone, jade is known for its ability to balance the body’s energies and also boasts cooling properties.
Stainless steel: Typically used because it’s an antibacterial material that is easily cleaned. It also stays cool and doesn’t break if accidentally dropped.
Rose quartz: This is one of the more popular Gua Sha materials and boasts soothing properties typically associated with healing.

In addition to the material of the Gua Sha tool, you’ll also want to consider the size, shape, and edge thickness. These features will determine whether or not the tool can be used on your face or body. Consider the following:

Size: Smaller Gua Sha tools are ideal for the eye area.
Shape: Tools that are going to be used on the back, arms, and legs typically have a flat surface. Curved shapes, on the other hand, are better suited to your face and neck.
Edge thickness: Thinner edges tend to be gentler on the skin, making them ideal for the face and neck area. Thicker edges provide a more intense massage and are excellent for larger areas such as your back, legs, and arms.

A Bunch of Amazing Benefits to Look Forward to

Since Gua Sha involves scraping your skin it’s believed to activate both your nervous and immune systems. Modern studies have shown that if the procedure is done correctly, and at least twice per week, chemicals are released in the body that improve blood flow, reduce pain, promote healing, and lessen toxins. With this in mind, you can look forward to the following benefits.

1. Eases Migraines

The gentle stroking process in Gua Sha has been known to increase blood supply to the tissues in your head. This reduces pain, inflammation, and tension, helping you to relax. Increased blood flow can also reduce blockages in blood vessels, which works to ease headache and migraine symptoms.

2. Promotes Lymphatic Drainage

If you’re consistently suffering from chronic blocked sinuses, brain fog, or bloating, you may be dealing with blocked lymph nodes. A Gua Sha massage can help to release the lymph fluid around the body. This reduces swelling and can reduce inflammation. It’s also an excellent way to remove excess toxins and waste.

3. Improves Blood Circulation

Gua Sha massages also improve blood circulation which in turn delivers nutrients, oxygen, and hormones throughout the body. This allows your organs to function more effectively, wounds to heal faster and also goes a long way toward keeping your heart healthy.

4. Relieves Puffiness

Puffiness around your eyes can be caused by several reasons. Allergies, fluid retention, and lack of sleep are among the top causes. Applying Gua Sha to the eye area will reduce current puffiness while you treat the underlying cause. Since the eye area is so sensitive, it’s essential to use the right tool and apply gentle strokes to avoid damage or injury.

5. Reduces Pain

It’s not uncommon for various TCM treatments to be used to treat or manage chronic pain. A Gua Sha massage on your neck and face can reduce tension headaches. Massaging other areas such as your back, legs, arms or hips releases muscle and exoskeletal pain and swelling. With instances of chronic pain, you may need several treatments to see significant results. Experts recommend two or three sessions per week.

Final Thoughts

Gua Sha is traditionally used to help reduce inflammation, promote circulation and relieve general or localised pain. With the amazing benefits seen after two or three Gua Sha treatments, you’ll easily be feeling better in no time. You’ll be left wishing that you had invested in the process a lot sooner!