Lymphatic Drainage & Targeted Healing NOW

Every enhancement on our menu is thoughtfully considered before making the cut. We want each offering to have a real impact and elevate your experience and the healing benefits of your massage treatment, which is why we are excited to introduce Gua Sha to the menu!  

What is Gua Sha?

Gua Sha is a centuries old, therapeutic body care technique from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It has recently gained popularity for use in facials because of its rejuvenating effects but here at The NOW we’ve incorporated it into our menu in its traditional function: body care.  

This massage technique involves using a flat tool to slide across the skin in a gentle, yet firm motion. The purpose of Gua Sha is to promote the flow of energy, or qi, in the body, and to release stagnation that may be causing muscle pain or tension.

How Does a Massage with Gua Sha Work?

We asked Carolyn Barron, the beloved LA based Chinese medical physician + licensed acupuncturist of Botanarchy [note for blog: hyperlink out to reference credibility], to fill us in on what to expect from a Gua Sha treatment and the red marks that occasionally result:

“The Sha in ‘Gua Sha’ is actually the name of the infamous purple and red marks that may arise during and after treatment. Often appearing as red stripes or red marks, these Sha marks are the therapeutic goal of treatment, signifying an unblocking of qi or energy, invigorating the area with fresh flow of qi, and relieving aches, pains, stiffness and fatigue. The Sha are a healthy response that actually stimulate the body’s innate immune system and anti-inflammatory cascade, typically fading in a few days.”

Is a Massage with Gua Sha Enhancement Effective?

Enhancing your massage with Gua Sha will allow your massage therapist to provide focused treatment on areas that are especially tight and tense. The result is next level recovery and full body relaxation.  We use a custom Rose Quartz tool specifically designed for body work to further elevate the experience. Rose Quartz is known to hold positive vibrational energy that promotes love and healing. 

What are the Benefits of a Massage with Gua Sha?

Add the Gua Sha enhancement to your next service to ease muscle tension in tight spots , relieve stress, increase circulation and experience a deeper restorative massage. A full list of benefits includes: 

  • Helps to produce collagen
  • Eases puffiness
  • Aids in detoxification and lymphatic drainage
  • Decreases inflammation
  • Stimulates circulation 

When to Avoid Gua Sha?

Gua sha is not recommended for those with skin rashes, sunburns, or blood clotting issues. Also, be sure to advise your massage therapist if you are concerned about red marks or skin discoloration that can result from deep pressure. Requesting light pressure can help avoid some natural bruising. 

How often should you get Gua Sha?

Massage works best with higher frequency. When you begin treatment, twice a month is ideal to jump start the healing process and receive maximum benefits. Our commitment to making massage a regular part of your self-care routine is carried out through our Ritual Membership program. Receive savings on monthly or bi-monthly massage services, roll-over credits or share them with friends and family.

How Do I Book Gua Sha Enhancement?

When searching for the best “Gua Sha Massage Near Me” choose The NOW Massage for next-level relaxation. Book your massage and add on the Gua Sha enhancement for the ultimate reset NOW!

Book a massage with Gua Sha Enhancement NOW