GUA SHA & LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE
Gua Sha
is a traditional Chinese therapeutic technique that involves using a smooth-edged instrument, typically made of jade, horn, bone, or plastic, to scrape or rub the skin over a lubricated area. The word "Gua" means "to scrape," and "Sha" refers to the redness or petechiae (tiny red or purple spots) that often appear on the skin during the process.
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Petechiae Formation: The scraping action is believed to release stagnant energy or "Qi" and promote blood circulation in the treated area. This increased circulation can cause the tiny blood vessels (capillaries) just beneath the skin's surface to break, resulting in petechiae or redness. This is often seen as a sign that the body's energy is flowing more freely.
Gua Sha is used for:
Pain Relief: It is commonly used to alleviate muscle and joint pain, particularly in cases of musculoskeletal disorders or tension.
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Detoxification: Practitioners believe that Gua Sha can help remove toxins and promote the body's natural detoxification processes.
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Lymphatic Drainage
is an essential function of the lymphatic system, a network of vessels, nodes, and organs that play a crucial role in maintaining the body's overall health.
Reasons why lymphatic drainage is important:
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Immune System Support: The lymphatic system is a key component of the immune system. Lymph nodes, which are distributed throughout the body, filter and trap foreign particles, such as bacteria, viruses, and cancer cells, helping to prevent infection and disease. Lymphatic drainage facilitates the movement of lymph, which contains immune cells, and ensures they can reach areas where they are needed to combat infections and other health threats.
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Toxin Removal: The lymphatic system aids in the removal of waste products and toxins from the body. It picks up cellular waste and excess fluids from the tissues and transports them to lymph nodes, where they can be filtered and eliminated. This process helps maintain a healthy internal environment and reduces the risk of tissue damage.
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Fluid Balance: The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of bodily fluids. When the system is functioning properly, it helps prevent the accumulation of excess fluid in the tissues, which can lead to edema (swelling). Lymphatic drainage is essential for preventing and managing conditions related to fluid retention.
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Nutrient Transport: The lymphatic system is involved in the absorption and transport of dietary fats and fat-soluble vitamins from the digestive system to the bloodstream. This ensures that essential nutrients are distributed throughout the body for various functions.
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Inflammation Regulation: Proper lymphatic drainage helps control inflammation by removing excess fluids and immune cells from areas of tissue damage or infection. This is important for the healing process and can reduce swelling and pain.
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Post-Surgery Recovery: Lymphatic drainage can be particularly important after certain surgeries, such as lymph node removal or cosmetic procedures, to prevent or manage postoperative swelling and complications. Specialized techniques are often used in these cases to promote healing and reduce discomfort.
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Support for the Nervous System: The lymphatic system is closely intertwined with the central nervous system, and it plays a role in the regulation of brain and spinal cord fluids. This connection is an area of active research, and it suggests that lymphatic drainage may have implications for neurological health.
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Lymphatic Drainage with moving cups
All lymphatic drainage treatments performed at Living Strong use moving manual cups to encourage lymphatic drainage.
Facial Cupping
