Gua sha - traditional body & Facial
Gua Sha is a traditional East Asian therapy that has been used for centuries and has strong historical roots in Chinese Medicine. The name roughly describes the technique of scraping or rubbing the skin to produce a therapeutic response.
During treatment, a smooth-edged tool is gently and repeatedly stroked across the skin, usually with massage oil or balm to allow it to glide comfortably. Traditionally, tools were made from materials such as stone, horn or jade; today a variety of smooth therapeutic tools are used and can be used in the traditional body form in addition to the well known facial gua sha.
At Willow Tree Acupuncture, gua sha is selected when clinically appropriate and tailored to each individual's needs and treatment goals.
❋ What is Gua sha used for?
In Chinese Medicine, Gua Sha has traditionally been used to encourage the movement of Qi and Blood and release areas of stagnation. From a modern perspective, the technique produces mechanical stimulation of the skin and superficial tissues and temporarily increases local microcirculation.
❋ Treatment outcomes
Treatment can sometimes leave temporary red or purple markings called “sha.” Although these can look similar to bruising, they usually aren't painful and gradually fade over several days. The amount of marking varies considerably between people.
Gua Sha may be incorporated into treatment for:
Tight or tense muscles, particularly through the neck, shoulders and back
Musculoskeletal aches and discomfort
Restricted or stiff-feeling areas
Headaches associated with muscular tension
Supporting local circulation
Relaxation and reducing feelings of muscular tension
Facial Gua sha
Gua Sha can also be performed much more gently on the face, jaw and neck. Facial Gua Sha uses light strokes rather than the stronger techniques used on the body and generally isn't intended to produce red marks.
It may be incorporated into cosmetic acupuncture treatments to support local circulation, relieve facial and jaw muscle tension and promote a relaxed, refreshed appearance.
