The term Gua Sha (pronounced gwa sha) has been popping up on our screens a lot in recent years. So what exactly is it?
Gua Sha is an ancient Chinese massage tool that comes in a variety of stones and shapes and can be used on both the face and body. The massage method involves dragging flat objects on the skin to create friction. The word Sha means skin redness, and that is exactly what happens, the skin becomes fresh rosy from the increased circulation. There are soft-shaped stones made of quartz, jade and amethyst, among others, and there are those that resemble a comb with sharp and pointed shapes that are most often used on the body. Each stone and design has its specific purpose.
The art of massaging with massage stones or tools has been used in East Asia for centuries to cure a variety of ailments and improve blood circulation. Hands, coins, plates, spoons and other household objects could be used to perform this centuries-old self-care practice.
Like many ancient methods, Gua Sha has made its way into Western beauty, and many therapists now offer Gua Sha massages in their salons. With a Gua Sha massage, you can experience both a relaxing and pleasant treatment or a deep form of massage, similar to a sports massage.
Gua Sha at home?
You can of course do your own gentler and more relaxing Gua Sha massage at home. Add it to your beauty routine, preferably weekly (daily if you want), preferably in the evening when you usually have a little more time. It's a great way to really pause and give yourself that much-needed "me time" because you can't rush it.
When the Gua Sha stone is used on the face, the gentle pressure and strokes encourage energy flow while the smooth edges of the stone help with skin elasticity and tone.
A remarkable stone that has been used for centuries to calm the mind and emotions, the Inlight Amethyst Gua Sha Stone is an excellent tool for home use.
Benefits of Gua Sha Massage
When the stone is used correctly and regularly, Gua sha massage has been shown to:
- Release muscle tension
- Assist with drainage – releases accumulated toxins, reduces inflammation and swelling
- Tone, lift and sculpt
- Minimize lines on the face
- Promote well-being
How to use a Gua Sha!
If Gua Sha is completely new to you, you will find a video of Inlight's own ritual below.
Pause and reflect. Inhale the scent of the products you are using and feel yourself in the present. Follow the step-by-step routine, taking a few extra minutes to apply the stone to your acupressure points for extra deep relaxation.
Inlight's products in this video are:
TIP: create a safe and quiet space in your room or bathroom dedicated to your self-care routines, where you can return to time and time again.