Gua Sha for Weight Loss
Gua sha not only helps to slim down, but also has many other health benefits that other weight loss methods may not achieve, such as targeted slimming, promoting blood circulation, unblocking meridians, relieving pain, clearing heat and toxins, strengthening the spleen and stomach, and harmonizing 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 to use coins because some people may be allergic to metals. Here, I recommend using a professional gua sha board.
In terms of material, according to the research of traditional Chinese medicine, rhino horn or buffalo horn is the best, followed by jade or stone, and ceramic plates are also good. Smooth wooden gua sha boards can also be used.
In terms of shape, square is the best, but the corners must be smooth and not sharp. This shape of gua sha board is easy to grip and convenient for different techniques. For health maintenance, the thickness of the gua sha board should be moderate, not too thin.
2. Strength and Intensity
It is important to use relatively strong force and quick strokes for gua sha. Adjust the direction of gua sha according to different acupoints. Generally, gua sha each acupoint 50-100 times until the skin becomes slightly red and the surface temperature of the skin increases.
3. Gua Sha Oil
Gua sha should not be done dry, as it will increase the pain and friction that can make the skin rough. Therefore, gua sha must be done with gua sha oil. You can choose olive oil as gua sha oil, or choose plant massage essential oils according to your preference.
4. Precautions after Gua Sha
(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 after gua sha.
