Gua sha, an ancient practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has been used for centuries to address issues related to stagnant blood circulation and blocked energy (qi) within the body. Among its various applications, gua sha has proven effective in alleviating neck pain, a common complaint in today's digital age. In this blog post, we'll explore several gua sha techniques that you can easily apply at home for quick relief from neck pain.
The Gua Sha Tool: For our neck pain gua sha session, we recommend using TanmuCare's Energy Flow Massage and Gua Sha Tool. Crafted from durable sandalwood, this tool offers a comfortable grip and mimics the feel of your hand, reducing strain during the process.
Step 1: Apply Gua Sha oil
Preparing for Your Gua Sha Session Start by applying an ample amount of gua sha oil to both your neck and the gua sha tool (TanmuCare Energy Flow Massage & Gua Sha Tool).
Your neck comprises various meridian pathways, including the Du meridian (Line 1), Bladder meridian (Line 2 & 4), and gallbladder meridian (Line 3 & 5). Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
- Starting Point: Initiate the scraping approximately 2cm above your hairline. This region contains crucial acupressure points that play a significant role in relieving a stiff neck.
- Scraping Technique: Gradually scrape each meridian line - middle, left, and right - in succession. Avoid excessively fast movements, as they may disrupt the flow of your qi and blood.
Note: Expect to see bruising or redness on your neck post-treatment. Darker colors may indicate blockages in the meridians. However, these marks are temporary and should leave you feeling noticeably better and relieved.
Step 2: Acupressure Points for Enhanced Relief
To amplify your relief, focus on two key acupressure points: Fengchi (GB 20) and Jiangjing (GB 21). Here's how to locate them:
- Fengchi (GB 20): Found at the base of the skull and the top of the neck.
- Jiangjing (GB 21): Situated midway between your neck and the start of your arms.
If you spend long hours in front of a computer, massaging GB 21 can help alleviate soreness.
Our TanmuCare Energy Flow Massage and Gua Sha tool, with its hand-polished smooth heads, can effectively stimulate and press these acupressure points, offering a relief similar to using your fingers without straining your hands.
Additional Tips:
- Scraping Duration: Ensure you scrape or comb each meridian line for a minimum of 3 minutes and press each acupressure point at least 30 times. You should experience significant relief from your stiff neck afterward.
- Post-Treatment Care: Wait at least 30 minutes before taking a shower and avoid exposing your neck to cold air, such as from fans or air conditioning.
By following these steps and using the TanmuCare Energy Flow Massage and Gua Sha Tool, you can effectively relieve neck pain and enjoy the benefits of this ancient healing technique in the comfort of your own home. For a visual guide, check out our tutorial videos on TikTok and Instagram.
