Vacations are meant for relaxation, and that’s exactly what Matthew and Candise Raison sought on their sixth day in Bali. Too tired to venture out, they opted for an in-room massage – the red dragon massage, to be precise.
Candise enjoyed her massage, but things took a peculiar turn when the masseur asked Matthew if he wanted to “get the red dragon out of him.” Confused yet curious, Candise encouraged her husband to go ahead with it.
Unlike the regular massage, this one involved a coin being run along Matthew’s body, with promises of turning into a red dragon by the next day. This unique technique is known as “gua sha,” which involves skin scraping for various health benefits.
What is Gua Sha, or red dragon massage?
Gua sha, also known as “skin scraping,” is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that aims to improve circulation and remove impurities from the body’s tissues. It is believed to enhance the flow of energy (qi) throughout the body, offering both physical and mental wellness benefits.
The health benefits of the red dragon massage
Considered beneficial for relieving menopause symptoms, neck and shoulder pain, aiding in faster recovery from workouts, and alleviating back pain in older individuals, gua sha has garnered attention for its potential health benefits.
Studies suggest that gua sha can help relieve pain and stiffness by unblocking energy pathways in the body, leading to improved well-being.
Matthew Raison, who found relief from chronic back pain through gua sha, attests to its efficacy. Despite its unconventional appearance with skin discoloration and bruising, gua sha has shown promising results in pain relief and inflammation reduction.
Studies Suggest Gua Sha Is an Effective Pain Relief Treatment
Research indicates that gua sha can improve quality of life for individuals with chronic pain, offering both immediate and long-lasting relief. It has been found effective in reducing pain and inflammation in various populations.
Who Shouldn’t Have Gua Sha?
While gua sha offers numerous benefits, certain individuals should avoid this treatment, including those who bleed easily, have medical conditions affecting veins or skin, or are on blood-thinning medications. Consulting with a qualified practitioner before undergoing gua sha is essential.
Alternative therapies like gua sha may seem unconventional, but their potential health benefits are worth exploring. Always seek advice from a professional before trying new treatments to ensure safety and efficacy.
Keep Reading: Benefits of Cupping Therapy: Alternative Medicine for Pain, Immunity & Digestion
Sources
- [1] Laura Hedges For Daily Mail Australia. (2018, October 04). Why you should ALWAYS ask: Australian left with red marks on back after red dragon massage in Bali. Retrieved from https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-6242005/Why-ask-Australian-left-red-marks-red-dragon-massage-Bali.html?ito=social-facebook
- [4] Saenlee, K., Eungpinichpong, W., & Chatchawan, U. (n.d.). Immediate effects of Gua Sha therapy for reducing neck and shoulder pain associated with myofascial trigger point in computer users. Retrieved from https://www.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ams/article/view/66337
- [5] Yuen, J. W., Tsang, W. W., Tse, S. H., Loo, W. T., Chan, S. T., Wong, D. L., . Chiang, V. C. (2017, June). The effects of Gua sha on symptoms and inflammatory biomarkers associated with chronic low back pain: A randomized active-controlled crossover pilot study in elderly. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28619301
