The Practice of Gua Sha
Are you as intrigued by the latest phenomena, gua sha, as we are? After this beauty craze took over our Instagram feed, our curiosity to learn more led us to Wildflower Beauty Bar. Specializing in gua sha facials, the lovely founder, Gretchen met with us to answer all our burning questions.
What is Gua Sha?
Originating thousands of years ago in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Gua Sha has historically been performed on the body as a vigorous massage technique. In more recent history this treatment has evolved to include a much gentler practice on the face. The treatment is often referred to as a “natural facelift” and is touted for its ability to treat a myriad of skin conditions ranging from fine lines and wrinkles to acne and pigmentation.
How does it work?
Facial Gua Sha is a holistic facial massage technique based on the idea that your skin is an external reflection of your internal health. By improving the functions of the body we can improve the appearance and function of the skin.
During the treatment a handheld board, often made of jade is gently pulled along certain energy points on the face. The treatment’s purpose is to move stagnant blood and improve the flow of Qi, the body’s vital energy. Doing so removes energetic blockages, revitalizing the body and initiating the body’s innate ability to heal itself.
The “natural facelift” part is a result of the smoothing and lifting of fascia, a soft tissue just below the skin, resulting in an instant facelift and contouring fine facial features.
The gentle motion of the massage also stimulates the flow of the lymphatic system which provides a deep detox for the skin. Think of the lymphatic system as an intricate waste system within the body, if it’s clogged it’s not running as efficiently as it could be. With a third of our lymph nodes living in our neck and up, facial gua sha becomes an essential method in increasing the movement of this waste system.
What are the key benefits?
Gua sha works along the meridian system of the body revitalizing it naturally and effectively.
The benefits include:
Increased skin radiance and deep detox. As blood and lymph flow is encouraged the skin is nourished and detoxified resulting in a radiant complexion.
Contouring and lifting of the face. As muscles are relaxed the face is easily shaped and contoured.
Visible lifting and smoothing of the skin. As facial fascia is rehydrated and smoothed the skin is naturally lifted and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles is diminished.
A heightened sense of well being is achieved as the parasympathetic system is activated.
Mention this article at time of booking and receive $25 off your first Lift and Glow Gua Sha Facial at Wildflower Beauty Bar, or 20% off their Facial Gua Sha series.
Valid until June 15, 2019. Cannot be combined with other offers.