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When experiencing discomfort, many people prefer to use Gua Sha, which has proven to be effective. Gua Sha is guided by the principles of TCM meridian and acupoint theory, utilizing specialized Gua Sha tools and techniques, along with a medium, to repeatedly scrape and rub the skin surface, resulting in red, grain-like spots or dark red petechiae, known as “Sha” changes, thereby achieving the effects of invigorating blood circulation and releasing Sha.
The Three Major Health Benefits of Gua Sha
1. Invigorating Blood and Dispelling Stasis: Gua Sha can regulate muscle contraction and relaxation, adjusting interstitial pressure to promote blood circulation around the scraped tissues. This increases tissue perfusion, thus achieving the effects of “invigorating blood and dispelling stasis” and “dispersing stasis to generate new”.
2. Balancing Yin and Yang: Gua Sha has a significant effect on adjusting the balance of Yin and Yang in organ functions. For instance, in cases of hyperactive intestinal peristalsis, applying Gua Sha techniques on the abdomen and back can suppress the hyperactivity and restore normal function. Conversely, for those with reduced intestinal motility, it can promote the restoration of normal peristalsis. This indicates that Gua Sha can improve and adjust organ functions, achieving a balance of Yin and Yang.
3. Relaxing Muscles and Unblocking Meridians: Muscle tension and pain often have a reciprocal relationship. Gua Sha treatment eliminates the pain source, thereby relieving muscle tension; if tense muscles are relaxed, pain and pressure symptoms can significantly diminish or disappear, facilitating the healing of the affected area.
Eight Key Areas for Gua Sha Health Maintenance1. Scraping Hands and Feet to Promote Qi and Unblock Meridians
Women often experience cold hands and feet, which TCM attributes to insufficient Yang Qi or poor circulation. It is recommended to first scrape the palms with the flat side of the Gua Sha board until they warm up, then use the grooves of the board to scrape all sides of the fingers from the base to the tips, 5 to 10 times in each direction, to promote Qi and unblock meridians. The same method can be applied to the feet.
2. Scraping the Abdomen to Relieve Constipation
Chronic constipation not only affects digestion and absorption but also leads to toxin accumulation in the body. Use the flat side of the Gua Sha board to scrape the abdomen from top to bottom, and from left to right. Note that if there is organ prolapse, scrape from bottom to top.
3. Scraping Around the Eyes to Improve Vision
Many people are familiar with eye exercises that target specific acupoints. Using Gua Sha instead of finger pressure can provide more effective stimulation. Start by pressing the Jingming (睛明) acupoint with the Gua Sha comb, then scrape from the Jingming acupoint to the outer corner of the eye, using both the upper and lower eyelids. This can improve the circulation of Qi and blood around the eyes, alleviating visual fatigue and dryness.
4. Scraping the Neck to Invigorate Blood and Relax Muscles
Neck and shoulder discomfort is a common “occupational disease” for desk workers. Gua Sha can invigorate blood and relax muscles, improving local Qi and blood stagnation. Focus on three scraping paths: from the midpoint of the hairline to the Dazhui (大椎) acupoint, and from the outer edges of the hairline towards the shoulders. Additionally, scraping this area during a cold can help dispel wind and relieve muscle tension.
5. Scraping the Sternum to Open the Chest and Regulate Qi
Many people experience chest tightness and shortness of breath after stress or fatigue. Use the single edge of the Gua Sha comb to scrape the lower half of the sternum from top to bottom. This area contains the Qihui (气会) acupoint, which can help open the chest and regulate Qi. Those who frequently experience hiccups can also benefit from scraping this area.
6. Scraping the Ribs to Soothe the Liver and Relieve Depression
Anxiety, depression, and irritability can disrupt overall bodily functions due to prolonged mental stress. TCM believes that normal emotional activity relies on smooth Qi flow, and the liver is responsible for this. Since the liver meridian runs along the sides of the body, scraping this area can soothe the liver and relieve depression, particularly focusing on the Qimen (期门) acupoint located at the intersection of the nipple line and the sixth intercostal space. Scrape slowly, targeting painful or nodular areas.
7. Scraping the Head to Refresh the Mind
The head is where all Yang meridians converge. Scraping the head with a Gua Sha comb after waking up can invigorate Yang Qi and refresh the mind. Start at the Baihui (百会) acupoint at the top of the head and scrape outward in a radial pattern until the scalp feels warm. If there are painful points, scrape them 5 to 10 times.
8. Scraping the Soles to Alleviate Insomnia
Individuals suffering from insomnia can scrape the soles of their feet before bedtime to promote sleep and relieve headaches. Start by scraping the entire sole from the ball to the heel, and once warmed, use the single edge of the Gua Sha board to scrape the Yongquan (涌泉) acupoint in the center of the foot.
Precautions During Gua Sha
1. Avoid Wind and Keep Warm During Gua Sha
During Gua Sha treatment, avoid wind and keep warm. In cooler environments, minimize exposed areas, and do not perform Gua Sha in front of a fan or in drafty areas during hot weather. As the skin’s pores open during Gua Sha, exposure to wind and cold can lead to new illnesses and diminish the treatment’s effectiveness.
2. Drink a Cup of Warm Water After Gua Sha
Gua Sha treatment causes perspiration and expels pathogens, which can deplete bodily fluids. Drinking a cup of warm water after Gua Sha can replenish lost fluids and promote metabolism, aiding in the elimination of metabolic waste.
3. Timing for Bathing After Gua Sha
To avoid invasion by wind and cold, wait until the skin’s pores have closed and returned to normal before bathing, typically around 3 hours. However, if the skin is still damp after bathing, Gua Sha can be performed, as the pores are slightly open, allowing for effective treatment, but care should be taken to keep warm.
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