Gua sha is a natural, alternative therapy that involves
scraping your skin with a smooth-edged tool to improve your circulation. The
name gua sha is a Chinese word for scraping. This ancient Chinese healing
technique is a unique approach to better health, addressing issues like chronic
pain and tension.
In gua sha, a technician scrapes your skin with short or
long strokes to stimulate microcirculation of the soft tissue, which increases
blood flow. Using a tool instead of the hands allows a technician to apply more
pressure. Gua sha technician may apply mild pressure, and gradually increase
intensity to determine how much force you can handle.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, qi or chi is
energy that flows through the body. Many people believe that a person’s qi must
be balanced and flowing freely to ensure health and wellbeing. Qi can become
blocked, causing pain or tension in the muscles and joints. Gua sha aims to
break up this blocked energy to relieve aches or stiffness, to reduce
inflammation and promote healing.
This therapy may help to break down lumps in tissues,
reduce pain and improve flexibility in the joints.
It may speed up muscle recovery.
It may relieve symptoms of other conditions.
It may move pooled or stagnated blood, which is viewed as
a cause of pain and illness.
It may be an effective remedy for headaches.
It may reduce perimenopause symptoms, such as sweating, insomnia
and headaches.
