Black Obsidian Body Gua Sha Stone

Gua sha is an ancient Chinese healing technique that involves scraping the skin with a smooth-edged stone. The friction and movement can help break up the fascia- the connective tissue that wraps every structure in the body, which can help with chronic pain, stress, and muscle tension. Using a body gua sha stone will improve circulation by helping to deliver oxygen and nutrients to small blood vessels. It can reduce inflammation by promoting blood flow and releasing stagnant energy.  It amplifies lymphatic drainage and detoxification by helping to remove toxins, metabolic waste, damaged cells, and stagnant fluids from the body.

Directions: After showering, apply your magnesium spray and let it soak in for 10 to 15 minutes. Then, apply a non comedogenic oil, like jojoba oil or sweet almond oil. Using the flat side of the gua sha stone, start with the extremities and work upward and inward towards the heart. Using sweeping strokes with medium to firm pressure, do about five strokes in each section, circling at the hips, stomach, shoulders and chest (see diagram). If you are trying to get into the fascia and address any pain, constricted blood vessels, or cellulite, you can do up to 30 strokes. The more strokes you do and the more pressure you use, the more likely it is that you will bruise. Bruising is an indication of stagnation being broken up and leaving the body. If no bruises occur you can use your gua sha stone 2-3 times a week. If bruising does occur, wait until the bruising has faded to use the gua sha stone again on that section. Less bruising will occur over time as the body has less and less stagnation. After you have completed your gua sha stone ritual, drink a glass of room-temperature water to flush out any toxins that have been dislodged.

** Magnesium binds to heavy metals so that you can flush out lead and mercury, reduces inflammation allowing the lymphatic system to flow more freely, and also helps produce glutathione- an antioxidant that helps the liver detoxify harmful substances. Combining gua sha with topical magnesium is a great way to detoxify your system.

About Black Obsidian: Some believe that black obsidian can protect against negativity and electromagnetic radiation, help clear negative energies and emotional blockages, release negative emotions, trauma and stress, and support detoxification. Black obsidian is said to connect with the root chakra, helping you feel grounded and focused.