What is Gua Sha?

Gua Sha is a Chinese Medicine healing treatment that has been relied upon for centuries.  Simply stated, it is a scraping "gua" technique that is performed over the surface of the skin to release a red rash or "sha" using a specific tool.  These tools range from jade stone, metal spoons to disposable metal lids, created specifically for Gua Sha treatments.   It is important that Gua Sha is applied by a trained professional, as there are sensitive areas on the body that should be treated with care. 

Gua Sha has several healing benefits such as;

• easing pain
• moving stagnant Qi and Blood
• strengthening your body's ability to fight disease and invading pathogens
• relaxing muscles
• releasing stagnation and congestion

Your practitioner will apply Gua Sha to specific areas on the body that correspond with a Chinese Medicine diagnosis.  When Gua Sha is performed, the scraping action will often draw a "sha" to the surface which is actually stagnant blood and qi that have been released and can be seen just under the skin's surface.  The "sha" colour can range from light pink, bright red, dark red, dark purple to almost black.  This different shades of red and purple further informs your practitioner's diagnosis.  This "sha" may look like bruising, but it will slowly disappear over 3-5 days.   

The friction created during a Gua Sha treatment will also generate heat.  As a result, you may feel a bit dehydrated after the treatment.  Therefore, it is important to stay hydrated by drinking water and keeping the treated area covered and protected, as the pores will be open and susceptible to invading pathogens.  It is recommended not to expose the area to the elements (wind, water, cold etc...) for at least 12-24 hours. 

What will I feel during a Gua Sha treatment?

During a Gua Sha treatment, the patient may experience slight discomfort and then a feeling of release.  If for any reason you feel uncomfortable during your treatment, please inform your practitioner and adjustments will be made. 

Your practitioner will follow the strictest health and safety standards throughout your treatment to ensure that your health and wellbeing are paramount.