Gua Sha for Weight Loss
Gua Sha not only helps with weight loss, but also has many other health benefits that other weight loss methods often lack, such as targeted slimming for specific areas, promoting blood circulation, unblocking meridians, relieving pain, clearing heat and toxins, strengthening the spleen and stomach, and balancing yin and yang.
1. Tools
First, let's understand the tools used for Gua Sha. Many people may have heard that coins are commonly used for Gua Sha, but it is not recommended for individuals as some people may be allergic to metals. Here, we recommend the use of professional Gua Sha boards.
In terms of material, according to traditional Chinese medicine research, rhinoceros horn or ox horn is the best, followed by jade or stone, and porcelain is also good. Smooth wooden Gua Sha boards can also be used.
In terms of shape, square-shaped is the best, but the corners must be smooth and not sharp. This shape of Gua Sha board is easy to hold and allows for different techniques. For health purposes, the thickness of the Gua Sha board should be moderate and not too thin.
2. Gua Sha Oil
Avoid dry scraping during Gua Sha, as it can increase pain and make the skin rough. Therefore, Gua Sha oil must be applied during the process. You can choose olive oil as Gua Sha oil, or choose plant massage oils according to your preference.
3. Pressure and Intensity
Use relatively strong pressure and quick scraping. Adjust the scraping direction according to different acupoints during the Gua Sha process. Generally, scrape each acupoint 50-100 times until the skin turns slightly red and the surface temperature of the skin increases.
4. Post-Gua Sha Precautions
(1) After Gua Sha, wipe off any Gua Sha oil that has not been absorbed by the skin with a tissue.
(2) Avoid cold water or exposure to cold temperatures after Gua Sha.
