The Daily Ritual
A few minutes of intentional care
Gua sha is an ancient practice of gently sweeping the body to move fascia, circulation, and energy. Here’s how to make it part of your day.
- Releases fascia & tension
- Boosts circulation
- Supports lymphatic flow
- A grounding daily ritual
How to use it
- 1
Start on clean skin
Begin with freshly cleansed, dry skin so the tool glides and the oil absorbs.
- 2
Glide with body oil
Apply a generous layer of Anoint Nourishing Body Oil first. Enough slip is the difference between a soothing sweep and a drag — and it nourishes as you go.
- 3
Angle & sweep in one direction
Hold the tool at a 15–45° angle and sweep with moderate pressure — always in one direction, never back and forth. Repeat each motion 5–8 times.
- 4
Work from the top down
Move in sequence: neck & shoulders → chest → abdomen → back → arms & legs. Sweep toward the heart to encourage flow.
- 5
Rest & hydrate
Mild redness from increased circulation is normal. Take a breath, drink water, and let the calm settle in. Wipe the tool clean and dry after use.
Complete the ritual
The oil that makes it glide, the full Duo to add dry brushing, and the Body Love gift set.
Frequently asked
Do I need to use oil with it?
Not necessarily — but it makes a real difference. A body or facial oil like Anoint Nourishing Body Oil lets the tool glide smoothly and nourishes as you go. Without enough slip the tool can drag and irritate the skin, so we recommend it for the most comfortable, effective sweep.
How often should I use it?
Daily or a few times a week is plenty. A few minutes per area is enough — consistency matters more than pressure or duration.
Which direction do I sweep, and how hard?
Always sweep in one direction (never back and forth), generally toward the heart, holding the tool at a 15–45° angle with light-to-moderate pressure. It should feel good, never sharp.
Is redness normal?
Light pinkness from increased circulation is normal and fades on its own. Gua sha should not be painful — if it is, ease up on the pressure.
Who should avoid it?
Avoid broken or irritated skin, active rashes, and sweeping directly over varicose veins. If you are pregnant, taking blood thinners, or managing a medical condition, check with your healthcare provider first.
How do I care for the tool?
Wipe it clean with a soft, damp cloth after use and let it air-dry. It’s beech wood, so don’t soak it or leave it sitting in water.
Further reading
References
Gua sha is a traditional practice. A growing body of research explores its effects on circulation and muscle tension:
- Nielsen A, Knoblauch NTM, Dobos GJ, Michalsen A, Kaptchuk TJ. “The effect of Gua Sha treatment on the microcirculation of surface tissue: a pilot study in healthy subjects.” Explore (NY). 2007;3(5):456–466. PubMed
- Braun M, Schwickert M, Nielsen A, et al. “Effectiveness of Traditional Chinese ‘Gua Sha’ Therapy in Patients with Chronic Neck Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” Pain Medicine. 2011;12(3):362–369. PubMed
- “Comparative Effects of Facial Roller and Gua Sha Massage on Facial Contour, Muscle Tone, and Skin Elasticity: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” 2025. PMC
