Figure 1: TCM Back Guasha Therapy
Guasha is a traditional Chinese natural therapy that involves stimulating the meridians on the back. Using specialized tools made from natural material such as jade, practitioners apply firm strokes on specific areas of the skin based on the principles of the twelve regular meridians and eight extraordinary meridians in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). This technique aims to promote blood circulation, relieve congestion, and regulate the body by inducing redness, petechiae, or ecchymosis in the treated areas.
Figure 2: Gua sha boards of various shapes made from natural materials
Regular guasha sessions can help regulate the flow of Qi, alleviate fatigue, and enhance immune function. The back is a common area for gua sha treatment, and it can be particularly effective for conditions like colds when the sides of the spine are targeted.
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Benefits of back guasha include：
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Improved blood circulation and dispelling stasis: Back guasha helps regulate muscle contraction and relaxation, relieving pressure between tissues and promoting blood circulation in the treated areas. This stimulates blood flow, clears stasis, and promotes the generation of new blood.
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Relaxing muscles and promoting meridian flow: Back guasha relaxes tense muscles and reduces pain and discomfort. It helps alleviate symptoms associated with tension and compression, facilitating the repair of affected areas.
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Detoxification: Back guasha induces localized congestion and stimulates vasodilation, leading to accelerated elimination of waste products and toxins. This purification process enhances blood quality and strengthens the body's resistance.
Figure 3: Gua sha may cause temporary marks or redness on the skin. Typically, these marks will fade within 2-3 days for faster recovery or up to around 10 days for slower recovery. In normal circumstances, the marks should resolve within 5-7 days.
Precautions
Please note that gua sha may leave temporary marks or redness on the skin. Generally, the marks will fade within 2-3 days for faster recovery or up to around 10 days for slower recovery. Under normal circumstances, the marks should resolve within 5-7 days (figure 3).