Gua Sha is a traditional massage method widely used in Asia to target aches,pains,fever, stiffness, congestion, etc. Materials can be made of jade stone, buffalo horn, alarge coin, ceramic or porcelain spoon, a tiny wooden board, sea shell, or even a simple round jar lid to provide the gentle or vigorous scrape or rapid rubbing over the skin (problem area) surface. This ancient technique has been observed by animals scratching and rubbing an injured area. It may be used for acute or chronic disorders by breaking up stagnation by “sanding”.

Sha refers to the reddish, raised millet-sized skin rash (petechiae) the pinpoint blood filled raised lines brought up by quick scraping strokes.

Gua Sha is applied primarily on the back, areas of the neck, shoulders, buttocks, and limbs, which may include back of the knees when indicated by a seasoned Practioner. Advanced providers may also apply to the chest and abdomen. Self care can be done on the small, non-flat areas of the ankle joint, knee or wrist with care in choosing the correct size tool and positioning.

Whether simple revitalization or complete regeneration for a deeply impaired or troubled area, many disorders respond to this remedy. These can include digestive disorders, pain syndromes, allergies, stress and burn-out ailments.

The skin is well lubricated and treatment is avoided over moles, cuts, or unhealed wounds. Spots appear IN the skin NOT on the skin. Tools are held at approximately 30 degrees angle and the smooth edge touching the skin. Strokes are downward (top to bottom) and away from the spine (tracing the ribs.) It may feel uncomfortable, but should not be painful. Proper oiling of the skin can lessen the sensation. One area is stroked until the sha is raised fully, and stop when a stroke no longer offers color change or spotting.