If you haven’t chanced upon a gua sha stone facial or a jade roller video on your social media, are you even on it? The ancient Chinese technique of face massaging is gaining traction thanks to beauty bloggers sharing their basic kneads. If you have stumbled upon these videos but have no clue what’s going on, read on.
Dermatologists say that the basics come from traditional Chinese wisdom: improper blood circulation and stagnant blood flow is one of the main reasons behind various diseases. To improve circulation and drain toxins, you can try jade rollers and gua sha – an alternative therapy that involves massaging your skin using special tools.
Our bodies have a source of energy known as ‘chi’ flowing through it. And to ensure good health and prosperity, we must balance it. Both rollers and gua sha are made of stones such as quartz, jade, rose quartz and amethyst – known for their healing properties. Gua sha is also known as ‘coining’, ‘skin scrapping’ or ‘pressure stroking’.”
Both work on the principle of improving blood flow under the skin and enhancing lymphatic drainage. This helps carry the oxygen to the skin cells, which in turn makes the skin tissues healthy, and reduces fine lines and wrinkles. Gua sha is also called ‘natural botox’ as it helps in controlling signs of ageing. The proven benefits are: pain reduction in muscles and joints; reduction in perimenopause symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, hot flashes; improved blood circulation, removal of toxins. It also treats musculoskeletal disorders and reduces wrinkles.
