Introduction:
The practice of Gua Sha has its roots in East Asia, primarily China, and was used as a healing modality within the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practice. The words “gua sha” are actually Chinese characters — “gua” meaning to scrape and “sha” meaning sand. Historically, gua sha was practiced with hard, flat, smooth objects, from horns to coins to bones. It was used to treat pain, and even illnesses as serious as cholera. In recent years, Gua Sha has become increasingly popular in Western countries as a beauty and wellness treatment. However, it is important to note that Gua Sha is a medical treatment and should only be performed by a trained practitioner.
What is Qua Sha?
Gua Sha is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves scraping the skin with a flat, rounded tool to promote circulation and increase blood flow. The technique has been used for centuries to treat a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, inflammation, and skin issues. Gua Sha can be carried out on your face, body, or scalp.
There are many natural crystals that can be used for Gua Sha practice. Some of the most popular ones include:
Rose Quartz: This crystal is believed to promote self-love and healing, making it a popular choice for Gua Sha.
Jade: Jade is believed to have a cooling effect on the skin and can help reduce inflammation.
Amethyst: Amethyst is believed to have a calming effect on the skin and can help reduce stress and anxiety.
Aventurine: Aventurine is believed to have a soothing effect on the skin and can help reduce redness and irritation.
Benefits of Gua Sha:
Gua Sha is an ancient Chinese healing technique that involves scraping your skin with a massage tool to improve circulation and reduce inflammation. Some of the benefits of Gua Sha include:
Improved circulation: Gua Sha can help increase blood flow and promote circulation throughout the body.
Lymphatic drainage: Gua Sha can help stimulate the lymphatic system, which is responsible for removing waste and toxins from the body.
Facial tension relief: Gua Sha can help relieve tension in the facial muscles, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Brighter complexion: Gua Sha can help improve blood flow to the face, which can help brighten the complexion and reduce puffiness.
Latest news and reseach:
A recent study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that Gua Sha was effective in reducing chronic low back pain. Another study showed that it improved muscle recovery in athletes.
A recent article on TODAY.com discusses the benefits of Gua Sha, including reducing chronic pain, headaches, and stress. The article also notes that Gua Sha may help relieve symptoms of perimenopause.
Possible contra-actions:
Gua Sha is a safe and non-invasive treatment, but it can cause some side effects. These side effects are usually mild and temporary and may include:
Bruising: Gua Sha can cause bruising on the skin, which is usually harmless and fades within a few days.
Pain: Gua Sha can cause some discomfort or pain, especially if the treatment is carried out too vigorously.
Redness: Gua Sha can cause redness on the skin, which is usually temporary and fades within a few hours.
Headache: Gua Sha can cause a headache, especially if the treatment is carried out on the neck or head.
Nausea: Gua Sha can cause nausea, especially if the treatment is carried out on the stomach or abdomen.
It is important to note that Gua Sha is not suitable for everyone. People with certain medical conditions, such as bleeding disorders or skin infections, should avoid Gua Sha.
Here are five steps to perform facial Gua Sha at home:
Cleanse your face: Start by washing your face with a gentle cleanser and patting it dry with a clean towel.
Apply facial oil: Apply a few drops of facial oil to your face and neck. This will help the Gua Sha tool glide smoothly over your skin.
Start at the neck: Begin at the base of your neck and use the Gua Sha tool to gently scrape upwards towards your jawline. Repeat this motion several times on each side of your neck.
Move to your face: Move the Gua Sha tool up to your face and use it to gently scrape along your jawline, cheeks, and forehead. Be sure to use light pressure and avoid any areas of your face that are sensitive or broken out.
Finish with your eyes: Use the small end of the Gua Sha tool to gently scrape around your eyes, starting at the inner corner and moving outwards. Repeat this motion several times on each eye.
Become certified Complementary Therapist:
Hair and beauty Academy (Doncaster branch)
7 Thorne Road, DN1 2HJ
Contact: Leanne Timms - leanne.timms@learningcurvegroup.co.uk
Courses available: L3 Complementary Therapies, L3 Reflexology
- funding available
- VTCT qualification
- Aromatherapy, Reflexology, Body Massage.
Thank you for reading. Jerry