Gua Sha is a therapeutic technique rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that has gained widespread popularity for its pain relief, muscle tension release, and skin-rejuvenating benefits. While many associate it with facial beauty treatments, Gua Sha is also a powerful holistic therapy that promotes circulation, detoxification, and overall well-being.
At
Lotus Acupuncture & Wellness in Merrimack, NH,
Dr. Jasmin Movassaghi incorporates
Gua Sha into acupuncture treatments to
enhance healing, reduce inflammation, and alleviate chronic pain. Whether you’re seeking relief from
muscle tension, stress, or stagnation, Gua Sha can be a transformative addition to your wellness routine.
What Is Gua Sha?
Gua Sha (pronounced "Gwah Shah") means "scraping" or "stroking" in Chinese. It involves using a smooth-edged tool (traditionally made from jade, rose quartz, or buffalo horn) to gently scrape the skin in long or short strokes. This process increases blood flow, releases muscle tension, and encourages the movement of Qi (energy) throughout the body.
How Gua Sha Works
✔ Stimulates circulation – Promotes fresh blood flow and oxygen to the tissues
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Releases stagnation – Helps break up areas of tightness and tension
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Reduces inflammation – Supports the lymphatic system in flushing out toxins
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Encourages natural healing – Triggers the body’s self-repair mechanisms
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Relieves pain – Effective for muscle tightness, joint stiffness, and chronic discomfort
The Benefits of Gua Sha
Gua Sha is widely used for both medical and cosmetic purposes. Its benefits extend far beyond just pain relief, making it a versatile and effective therapy.
1. Pain Relief & Muscle Recovery
✔ Helps with neck, shoulder, and back pain
✔ Relieves chronic tension, knots, and tight muscles
✔ Ideal for athletes and active individuals for faster muscle recovery
2. Headache & Migraine Relief
✔ Loosens tight muscles in the neck and shoulders
✔ Promotes blood circulation to the head
✔ Reduces stress-related tension headaches
3. Immune System & Detox Support
✔ Enhances lymphatic drainage to clear toxins from the body
✔ Reduces chronic inflammation and boosts immune function
✔ Supports respiratory health (often used for colds, coughs, and congestion)
4. Facial Gua Sha for Skin Health
✔ Reduces puffiness and dark circles under the eyes
✔ Promotes a natural, youthful glow by stimulating collagen production
✔ Helps sculpt and tone facial muscles, reducing fine lines and wrinkles
✔ Clears stagnation and lymph buildup, leading to a brighter complexion
Gua Sha vs. Cupping: What’s the Difference?
Both therapies can be used together or separately depending on your
health goals and needs.
What to Expect During a Gua Sha Treatment
At Lotus Acupuncture & Wellness, Dr. Movassaghi may incorporate Gua Sha into acupuncture treatments for enhanced pain relief and circulation. Here’s what a typical session looks like:
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Application of oil or balm – A light oil is applied to help the tool glide smoothly over the skin.
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Gentle scraping motion – The Gua Sha tool is used in firm strokes along the muscles and meridians.
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Mild redness or petechiae (Sha) may appear – This is a normal part of the healing process and
fades within a few days.
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Deep relaxation and relief – Many patients feel
immediate muscle relief and a sense of
lightness and relaxation after treatment.
Is Gua Sha Safe?
Yes! Gua Sha is a safe, natural, and non-invasive therapy. Some mild redness or temporary bruising may occur as stagnant blood and toxins are brought to the surface, but this is not painful and fades quickly.
Dr. Movassaghi is highly trained in Traditional Chinese Medicine techniques, ensuring that Gua Sha is performed safely and effectively for maximum healing benefits.
Experience Gua Sha at Lotus Acupuncture & Wellness
If you’re looking for natural pain relief, muscle relaxation, or facial rejuvenation, Gua Sha can be an excellent addition to your acupuncture treatment plan.
Contact Lotus Acupuncture & Wellness
Ready to experience the best acupuncture care in Southern NH? Contact Lotus Acupuncture & Wellness today:
📍 Location: 3 Mound Court Unit 4, Merrimack, NH 03054
📞 Phone: 603-377-6633
📧 Email: lotus@lotusacupuncturewellness.com
🌐 Website: www.lotusacupuncturewellness.com
With expert care, a patient-centered approach, and an ADA-accessible facility, Lotus Acupuncture & Wellness is the top choice for acupuncture in Merrimack, Amherst, Bedford, Milford, Nashua, Manchester, and beyond.
Take the first step toward natural healing and well-being—schedule your appointment today! ✨
