The way to practice gua sha , and which tools are most effective depends on the individual’s requirements.
“The method of applying the gua sha method to treat different parts of the body and focusing on the severity of the patient’s situation is the most significant distinction in the method used,” says Katz. “For instance an athlete in their early years with tension in the tendon will require the most aggressive and strenuous method, whereas a more mature person or one with sensitive skin requires a more gentle approach.”
Tools to use
Many tools have been employed in the past to make Gua sha, such as the Chinese soup spoon or a smooth metal cap and a honed jade stones or bone, like a cow’s rib or a water-buffalo Horn. Utilizing water or oil for smooth application the tool is usually rubbed on the skin, using pressure in order to simulate an rubbing motion.
If you practice gua sha the home, you must first determine which body part is being addressed. Modern tools used to treat facial gua sha or sha on necks and shoulders include the gua-sha stone or the gua sha spoon.
Gua sha stone. This tiny tool is constructed of quartz, jade or any other smooth stones and features sharp edges. It’s typically used for facial gua sha, which helps relieve tension, shape the skin and improve circulation.
Gua sha spoon. Created to relieve tension by acupressure points and shape facial muscles the gua sha spoon can be used for precise work. The name may suggest, this tool is made of a spoon shape and is made from stones, such as jade and rose quartz.
Facial Gua Sha Movements
If you are practicing the gua sha technique to the face, this practice should be gentle and think of as a method use massage on the face. according to Katz.
Begin by applying an oil for the face that is light on your face to ensure that the stone slides over the skin. For the first face massage Wilcher suggests using the instrument you prefer to use to smooth the movements of the cheekbone to the chin with downward movements. This will allow the fluid to go away from your face while in tune with the natural flow of your body. The smooth, upward motions can lift the skin. To achieve this you need to move the stone with a long upward stroke from the chin towards the outside edges of your eyebrow. The pressure applied in using facial gua sha must be gentle and comfortable.
Then proceed to move the stone in smooth, long strokes that follow the jawline beginning at the chin and finishing close to the ear. Move down the neck and stop at the collarbone. Repeat the motions 6 to 9 times. To reduce swelling and puffiness under the eyes apply gentle pressure beneath the eyes. Then, move the gua sha rock with smooth strokes starting from the inside of the eye’s underside to the outer corner of the eye.
For a better understanding of the forehead, Wilcher suggests moving the stone along the brow line then across the forehead with upward strokes starting at the brow, and moving towards the hairline. Repeat the entire process up to six times, three times per week to notice noticeable improvements.
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