Gua Sha Massage

Gua Sha massage, the term “gua” means “scraping” or “to scrape”, and “sha” is the term used to describe the millet-like redness that may occur after the treatment that has been carried out.  Interestingly, Gua Sha massage technically isn’t a massage at all.  Rather, Gua Sha is the name of the instrument that is used during the treatment.  This therapy can be performed on its own or it can be used in conjunction with another form of massage.  Another name for this therapy is “spooning”.  The most common scraping instrument that is used is a buffalo horn, which has a very smooth comb-like shape – without the teeth.  Jar lids or Chinese soup spoons can also be used.

The Gua Sha, or instrument, is used because the hands alone may not be enough to dispel heat, increase oxygen to the area, and stimulate blood flow in the way that the Gua Sha can.

Gua sha theory

Raising 'Sha' removes blood stagnation considered pathogenic, promoting normal circulation and metabolic processes means it will move the stuck qi and blood, release the exterior mimicking sweating, and move Fluids. In a modern medical construct ,these fluids contain metabolic waste that congested the surface tissues and muscles. So the person who is receiving Gua Sha therapy will probably experience immediate relief from pain, stiffness, fever, chill, cough, nausea, as well as with mental stress too (for relaxation) and so on. There will be immediate changes in their conditions. Gua Sha is an extremely simple and useful treatment for external and internal conditions and treats both acute and chronic disorders. Gua Sha is also a very easy and almost non-cost healing method and most people can do Gua Sha at their home.

WHAT DOES GUA SHA DO?

Gua sha does numerous things for the body. It moves stuck blood, promoting normal circulation to the muscles, tissues, and organs directly beneath the surface treated, leading to immediate improvements in stiffness, pain, and mobility. Normal metabolic processes are restored through the increased movement of fluids, as nutrients are carried to the tissues and metabolic wastes are removed. The gentle pressure and scraping motion also help release muscle tension and improve circulation, which indirectly activates the parasympathetic nervous system by stimulating the vagus nerve. This activation of the vagus nerve promotes relaxation, reduces stress, enhances digestion, and supports immune function, helping the body restore balance and achieve a greater sense of well-being.

As Gua Sha mimics sweating, it also resolves fever. Gua sha cools the patient who is overheated, warms the patient who is chilled, nourishes the patient who is deficient and clears the excess patient. Gua Sha is, therefore, considered an adaptogenic technique.
 A care provider considers Gua Sha in any case of pain or discomfort, for upper respiratory or digestive problems, and for any condition where palpation indicates there is “sha”.