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Ancient healing practice -

Gua sha, otherwise known as scraping therapy or skin scraping, is a healing technique used in traditional Chinese medicine.

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Skin scraping -

It involves scraping the skin gently with a smooth-edged instrument, in order to stimulate microcirculation of the soft tissue and blood flow.

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Minor bruising -

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.

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Results -

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.

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Where on the body? -

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.

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Health benefits -

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.

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Traditional Chinese 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.

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Western medicine -

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.

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Research -

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.

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Chest congestion -

The gua sha technique may also be effective at treating chest congestion caused by colds, asthma, bronchitis, or other lung conditions.

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Benefits to mental well-being -

Gua sha is also believed to benefit mental well-being. Firstly, it can help modulate the balance between our sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.

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Regulate nervous system -

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.

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Relieve stress -

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.

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Relieve stress -

It can also be used on the body as a stress relief technique, since it tackles the systemic effects of stress by improving circulation.

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Encourage mindfulness -

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.

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Encourage mindfulness - When we practice gua sha, we have an opportunity to acknowledge, validate, and empathize with our own emotions and experiences. This can help us let go of tension and any negative beliefs.

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Improve mood -

Finally, gua sha can help boost our mood by improving blood flow to both the brain and the body.

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Improve mood -

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.

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Expert opinions -

According to dermatologists, most people can benefit from gua sha, since it certainly helps stimulate blood circulation and improve lymphatic drainage.

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Expert opinions -

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.

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When to avoid gua sha -

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.

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When to avoid gua sha -

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.

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Learn from the experts -

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.

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Top tips for home practice -

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.

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Clean and hydrated skin -

Before using your tool, cleanse your skin thoroughly and then apply moisturizer to help the tool move more easily over the skin.

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For facial rejuvenation -

If using the gua sha technique for facial rejuvenation, it is recommended you apply mild to moderate pressure only.

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For pain or stress relief -

If using the technique for pain or stress relief, the American Institute of Alternative Medicine (AIAM) recommends applying medium to firm pressure.

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Stop once the skin reddens -

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.

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Allow time to heal -

Finally, make sure you allow any scraping marks to fully heal before you treat the same area of skin with gua sha again.

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Consult a medical professional -

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

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