Additional Techniques: Gua Sha
Gua Sha is a Traditional Chinese Medicine technique first mentioned in the Shang Han Lun, an ancient Chinese medical text from BC 220. It involves the use of a smooth tool to stroke the skin and increase circulation. This can promote detoxification, relax tight muscles, and encourage healing. Gua sha translates to “scrape sand”, which refers to the light, speckled bruising on the skin after treatment. This bruising can last anywhere from 1 to 7 days and is not painful or sensitive. It is often used for various types of pain but can also help to improve lymphatic flow.
Facial gua sha can also be utilized to promote lymphatic drainage that reduces puffiness around the eyes. It can also assist in increasing the production of anti-aging molecules, collagen, and elastin to help firm and tone the face. This is different than body gua sha as it does not leave marks.
- Ancient Spring uses gua sha tools made out of buffalo horn for body gua sha and tools made out of jade for facial gua sha.
Conditions Treated
- Pain conditions: Musculoskeletal pain (back, neck, knee, shoulder, etc.) arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, migraines, headaches