What Is Gua Sha?

And Why Your Muscles Might Thank You

You might have hear of Gua Sha from a friend or seen it on social media. But what is it really?

Gua Sha (pronounced "gwa-shah") is an ancient healing technique that comes from Traditional Chinese Medicine. It uses a smooth-edged tool to gently scrape the skin in a specific areas of the body. Don't worry - it's not as scary as it sounds!

Why Do People Use Gua Sha?

Gua Sha helps:

• Improve circutlation

• Release muscle tension

• Move stuck energy or "chi"

• Support the body's natural healing process

Many people say it helps with tight shoulders, neck pain, headaches, or that general "stuck" feeling in the body.

What Does It Feel Like?

Gua Sha feels like a firm massage stroke. Sometimes it leaves red or purple makes on the skin - these are called "sha" and they usually fade in a few days. It's not bruising - it's just a sign that your body is releasing built-up tension or toxins.

Is It Right For You?

Gua Sha is great for people who:

• Sit at a desk all day

• Carry Stress in their neck or back

• Are looking for a more natural way to feel better

It's not for everyone, though. If you're taking blood thinners or have certain medical conditions, talk to your therapist or doctor first.

Final Thoughts

At TruBalance Bodywork, I sometimes include Gua Sha in sessions if I think it will help - an if you're open to it. It's a simple tool that can have a big impact on how your body feels.

Want to try it? Just ask at your next session!