Gua Sha
Description
Gua sha (meaning: to scrape sand) is part of the traditional Chinese healing method used for thousands of years to address ailments such as chronic pain and the common cold. Practitioners use a smooth-edged tool to apply pressure directly to the skin using quick strokes to a specific area of the body to increase blood flow (Qi or “life force”), which can become obstructed. Blood stasis / stagnation can limit mobility, elevate toxins and pain in the body. Increased blood flow alleviates pain, increases mobility, and returns the body to homeostasis and a sense of well-being. Clients are minimally dressed and appropriately covered with a sheet. An oil or liniment is minimally applied to the skin. As blood stasis is released, a small amount of bruising or petechiae appearing on the surface of the skin (from released blood stagnation) is common and will disappear over the course of a few days. Self-care after the treatment includes extra water intake to flush toxins, keeping the area covered for at least 72-hours, and balanced nutrition to receive the full benefits. This treatment is contraindicated for seniors, clients with blood disorders (Hemophilia), and those taking certain medications such as blood thinners. As with all massage and bodywork, a thorough intake is required. *May be added as an enhancement
