Gua Sha
Gua Sha (刮痧) is a traditional Chinese medical therapy that involves scraping the skin with a smooth-edged tool to promote circulation, release tension, and stimulate healing.
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The term “gua” means "to scrape" and “sha” refers to the reddish marks or petechiae (tiny red or purple spots) that appear on the skin during treatment. These marks are not bruises—they’re considered a sign that stagnation (of blood, qi, or lymph) is being released from the tissues.
How It Works
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During Gua sha treatment:
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A natural oil is applied to the skin.
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A smooth-edged tool is used to gently scrape the skin in repeated strokes along meridians, muscles, or areas of tension.
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This scraping stimulates microcirculation, breaks up stagnation, and encourages lymphatic drainage.
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At the end of treatment leftover oil will be removed with a paper towel
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You will be asked to stay warm and avoid exposing your neck and back to the wind or a draft for 24hrs afterwards.
The technique is commonly used on the neck, back & shoulders.
Traditional Benefits
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In Chinese medicine, gua sha is used to:​
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Relieve muscle tension and pain
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Reduce inflammation
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Support the immune system
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Address headaches, neck pain, back pain, and even digestive issues
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Disperse pathogens (especially in early stages of colds or flu)
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Move stagnant qi and blood
I offer gua sha within my acupuncture treatments but do not offer gua sha as a standalone treatment.
Why, you ask? -Sometimes it's not the correct treatment for certain conditions. If you are interested in trying gua sha please do mention it to me in your treatment and I will try and accommodate your wishes
if suitable for you at that time.