What is guasha?
Guasha is a modality of traditional Chinese medicine in which oil is applied to the skin and a round-edged tool, such as a Chinese soup spoon is used to stroke the skin until reddish or purplish petichae (also known as “sha) are raised. The “sha” are a sign of blood stasis, or poor circulation. Guasha works by moving stuck blood through the blood vessels. Relief is almost immediate, and the marks fade within 2-5 days. This invigorating treatment is usually performed on the neck, shoulders and upper back.
How does it work?
Many diseases are caused or intensified by a slow blood flow that cannot eliminate metabolic poisons from the body and prevent congestion in the blood vessels. However, the scraping of your skin in a guasha session can expand your blood vessels, open your sweat pores and increase the rate at which your blood circulates throughout your body.
Many research studies indicate that guasha can quickly and effectively help reduce or eliminate pain in various areas of your body. By enhancing your blood circulation, the healing technique can expel harmful toxins from the body to increase the quality and strength of your organs.
Who would benefit?
Guasha can relieve pain from the back, joints, shoulder, neck and head. It also helps alleviate pain caused by fibromyalgia, repetitive strain injuries, migraine, osteoporosis, rheumatism and sciatica. When performed over the lungs, guasha can treat respiratory issues like common colds, flu, bronchitis, sleep apnea and asthma.
