Gua Sha & Its Benefits

What are gua shas?

Gua Sha Natural Stone Tools

The use of gua shas originated from traditional Chinese medicine where they used the tools to relax and soothe tight or sore muscles as well as improve blood flow in the body. Gua sha tools and treatments have become a popular treatment and tool for both at-home and in clinic use, providing both relaxation and physical skin health benefits.

Increased blood flow

Using the tool along the skin helps to promote blood flow in the skin which results in a healthy, fresh glow, increasing the skin’s natural radiance. An increase of blood flow can also help to even out skin tone and help the skin appear plump.

Fresh blood flow can also help improve sluggish circulation in the skin which can help to move away any old, stagnant blood that can be causing dark shadows through the skin, especially under the eyes.

Lymphatic drainage

Gua sha massages also help to promote drainage of toxins and lymph fluid in the skin. Many of the lymph channels that help to drain fluid, waste and toxins are located in the face, head and neck, which is perfect for using gua sha massage techniques.

The body’s lymphatic drainage system can sometimes require a helping hand to remove these toxins, which is where we can use this massage to pull fluid away from the body through our lymph nodes to clear them. This helps us to feel lighter and less congested, and can even relieve pressure in areas of built up fluid sitting in the face or sinuses.

Lifts and tones

Upward movements with the gua sha tool help to provide an instant lift in the skin and can help to improve the skin’s muscle tone, improving the appearance of skin sagging or laxity.

This can work wonders through the neck, chin, eyebrows, and cheeks. The smoothing and lifting massage movements can also help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, helping the skin appear smoother and softer.

Relaxation

Facial massage is highly relaxing and can help to relieve stress, tension, and anxiety. The combination of increased blood flow and of course, the massage can also help to ease firmness, tension, or pressure that is held in the face, providing instant relief and relaxation.

Massage can also boost the parasympathetic nervous system which allows our body to rest and relax. Relaxation and self care is so important in our busy lives and can make a huge difference in our energy, mood and happiness.