Gua Sha

Although Gua Sha is an ancient healing technique used by Chinese Medicine practitioners for thousands of years, it is relatively unknown in the West. It is recognized throughout Asia as a highly effective treatment for chronic pain conditions, stress, fatigue, and a host of other ailments.

First, special oil is applied to a specific meridian (energy pathway) on your body. Later a smooth round-edged object (such as a spoon) is used to scrape the skin. This create red patches of skin (called “Sha”), detoxifying your blood and restoring the healthy flow if Qi (energy) to the area. There is no pain involved, and the Sha will fade in 2 to 3 days. Gua Sha has a long lasting effect for several days. Even though it is superficial the manipulation can be felt deep in the body such as the lungs.

Common Gua Sha tools include small round plates, animal bones or horns. Many people also use large coins for Gua Sha.