What is Gua Sha?

Gua Sha is the use of a tool, often ceramic or metal, that is applied in a stroking manner against a lubricated part of the body such as the neck, back or limbs.  “Sha” is blood stasis at the surface level.  It arises as petechiae after the tool is applied. Petechiae are raised bumps which can be red, purple or black in appearance.  They disappear over time.  The purpose of Gua Sha is to invigorate stagnant blood and to release pathogenic factors that are trapped in the body.