I must confess when I first heard the words ‘Gua Sha’ I thought “What on earth is that?”
Digging a bit deeper I discovered a wonderful self-care technique that is not only good for a healthy body and mind, but it also supports good skin health too.
Chinese medicine teaches that ill health (minor to chronic) is caused by a stagnation of energy and blood flow in the body. Our fast-paced lifestyles and chronic stress contribute to these blockages causing imbalance and poor health.
Using Gua Sha tools and techniques can clear these blocks resulting in improvements in stress levels, mood, sleep, energy levels and of course, our skin health.
So, what is Gua Sha?
Gua Sha (pronounced ‘gwah Shah’) is a Chinese healing system dating back to the Ming Dynasty (circa 1360’s) that works on the meridian lines, acupressure points, circulatory and lymphatic systems of the body to reduce pain and inflammation.
It involves using a shaped tool (usually made of crystal or metal) being massaged over the skin to encourage petechiae (redness.) The English translation of Gua Sha is – Gua = ‘scraping’ and Sha = ‘redness’.
Facial Gua Sha is a gentle form of the treatment, but the benefits are no less powerful:
- Just under the skins surface we have the microcirculation system; this transports oxygen and nutrients to the skin via our blood to feed new cells as they form. Studies have shown that a 7-minute treatment can increase microcirculation by 400% and over time this can increase collagen and elastin production that results in a skin that is smoother, plumper and lifted with fewer lines & wrinkles.
- The lymphatic system is a secondary circulation system that helps to remove toxins and waste from the skin. To work properly we need to encourage lymph to move around the body, as it doesn’t move by itself, so a treatment stimulates this movement which in turn reduces puffiness, inflammation, and congestion in the skin.
- As you move a Gua Sha over the skin it works on the muscles beneath helping to release tension, soothing areas of soreness and leaving the skin brighter and glowing. A bonus is that it is also extremely relaxing.
- Using a Gua Sha activates the acupressure points in your face aiding in clearing blocks and stagnant energy in the meridian lines/system, which benefits not only our skin but your overall health and emotional wellbeing too.
Gua Sha Tools
The facial tools are predominately made of crystals and are smooth-edged tools that are rubbed over the skin once oil has been applied. They come in various shapes and sizes which can be used for various techniques. The most common shapes are a wing shape known as a restorer and a small wand like crystal called a precision tool.
Most commonly they are made from Jade or Rose Quartz as the energy they generate when moving over the skin can penetrate deeply into the skin tissue, muscle, and bone. This deep stimulation has been proven to increase collagen and elastin production when used regularly.
Be sure when you are buying a tool that it is of a good quality and is made from the genuine stone. There are many cheaper options available, but they are often imitation jade and quartz crystals that have been chemically treated so you will not get the same benefits and they could irritate the skin.
Jade
In Chinese medicine Jade is known as ‘Earth’s gift to mankind ’and is used to eliminate toxins and to rebalance, relax and bringing a sense of harmony to the user. As it is a denser stone than some others it is good for lifting, sculpting, and toning the muscles. You can use jade at any time during the day.
Rose Quartz
Rose quartz is called the crystal of unconditional love. It tones the heart qi and helps maintain a healthy circulation. This makes it an ideal stone for the skin as it ensures that sufficient oxygen and nutrients reach the cells. A good stone to use in the morning rose quartz helps to balance the body’s energy field and it’s cooling properties make it ideal for sensitive skins.
Gua Sha Techniques
- Always use an oil when using a Gua Sha, you need to have a good ‘slip’ to the skin to prevent dragging.
- Start with a gentle pressure. You can increase the pressure as the skin and muscles warm up.
- Listen to your skin. If it feels uncomfortable or not right, STOP. Facial Gua Sha should not be painful.
- Hold your tool at a 10-to-45-degree angle.
- Drink plenty of water when the treatment is finished.
A little demonstration…
Try Gua Sha out for yourself with this short video:
To learn more:
For more Gua Sha and Face Yoga routines why not join my Facebook group “The Glow Club” or to join a class head to the services page.
