Gua sha is an ancient Chinese healing technique which uses a massage tool to smooth over skin. It’s often used for chronic pain, to reduce inflammation, and to promote healing. It’s also a great step to incorporate into your skin care routine to give you those *spa-day* vibes!
A gua sha tool can be used on the face, neck, arms, and legs. It’s used by gently smoothing over the skin and applying light pressure in order to increase blood flow. Start with cleansed skin and use your favorite facial oil to help the tool glide easily. Make adjustments for what works for you, but most importantly be gentle with yourself.
Keep reading below for five benefits of incorporating gua sha into your self-care routine.
- Reduce facial tension by focusing the gua sha tool on your acupressure points. To work on the shoulder/neck area, hold the tool at an angle against your skin, and work slowly upwards to your jaw. Repeat each movement about 2-3 times then switch to the other side. Once you’re done with the neck area, glide the tool along your jawline up to your ear. From there continue gliding the tool from the center of your face at an angle upwards to the sides of your face. Then, feel the stress melt away!
- Gliding the tool along your face also promotes a brighter and healthier complexion by increasing blood flow.
- Speaking of increasing flow, Gua Sha is intended to deal with stagnant chi (life force/energy) and promote lymphatic circulation. By gliding the tool over our problem areas it’s thought to break up the stagnation and lessen toxins in the body by reducing inflammation.
- The slow, repetitive gliding movements are also a great grounding technique. It can help redirect any anxious thoughts towards focusing on the present mindful movements.
- Lastly, (and our favorite!) by taking the time to pamper yourself, you’re giving yourself the love you deserve!
Give yourself a little treat after a long day by using a gua sha tool after your night time skin care routine. It’s a perfect way to wind down at the end of the day!
