Gua Sha Therapy in Portland
Inner Sanctuary Wellness in Portland offers Gua Sha sessions that draw on traditional techniques, but with a lighter, more approachable feel. The method uses smooth tools to ease tight muscles, get blood flowing, and help calm swelling.
It’s both relaxing and therapeutic, working with the body rather than against it.
Whether you're dealing with long-term pain, looking to support your immune system, or just want a fresh look, Gua Sha’s a thoughtful, hands-on option.
What Is Gua Sha?
Gua Sha is a technique from Traditional Chinese Medicine that involves scraping the skin with a smooth-edged tool to improve circulation, release stagnation, and move lymphatic fluid.
"Gua Sha" translates to "scrape sand," referring to the small red or purple marks that may appear on the skin as stagnant blood and toxins are brought to the surface after use.
This treatment is used across the body for physical tension, internal imbalance and for cosmetic use. It is a safe, drug-free, and holistic therapy with both immediate and long-term benefits.
What Are the Benefits of Gua Sha?
Chronic Pain & Muscle Tension
Gua Sha helps against neck stiffness, low back pain, or shoulder knots by releasing tight muscles and improves circulation, easing pain without pills or side effects.
Stress & Emotional Overload
When things pile up like stress or anxiety, your body feels it. Gua Sha promotes deep relaxation by calming the nervous system and helping you unwind from the inside out.
Immune Support
By encouraging lymph flow and clearing stagnation, Gua Sha supports your immune system’s ability to ward off illness and recover faster.
Facial Rejuvenation
Facial Gua Sha has become more popular over the years because it boosts glow, reduces puffiness, and supports tone naturally, without injections or chemicals.
Detox & Fluid Retention
Gua Sha helps flush excess fluids and stimulates the body's own detox pathways, leaving you feeling lighter and more balanced.
Body Gua Sha for Pain and Tension Relief
For the body, Gua Sha can be used to areas like the neck, shoulders, upper back, and chest to break up adherent fascia and expand circulation.
It's particularly helpful for:
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Tech neck and tension from screens
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Postural tightness
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Chronic stiffness or mobility restrictions
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Cold and sinus congestion
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Athletic recovery
Redness or mild petechiae (the small red spots) are a benign treatment response and clear in a few days. We explain what you can expect and modulate intensity to your comfort.
What to Expect in a Gua Sha Session
All Gua Sha treatments begin with a short intake to establish your goals and unconscious habits.
Depending on your needs, the treatment may include:
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Warm compress or herbal liniment application
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Light oil or balm to allow smooth gliding
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Gua Sha strokes along acupuncture meridians or constricted muscle areas
Aftercare recommendations and hydration tips
Most treatments take 30 to 60 minutes and can be combined with acupuncture, cupping, or gentle bodywork for enhanced effect.
Our Approach at Inner Sanctuary
We believe Gua Sha is most effective when performed with presence, precision, and care.
Our Portland clinic offers a peaceful, supportive environment in which you can fully relax into the treatment.
Here's how we're different:
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Trained practitioners trained in both traditional and contemporary techniques and 9+ years of experience.
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High-quality tools and herbal oils
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Personalized treatments adapted to your needs
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Safe, clean, and nurturing space
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Clear communication before, during, and after treatment
Contact Us
Let us know how we can help you
Opening Hours
Mon - Fri
Saturday
Sunday
9:00 am – 8:00 pm
9:00 am – 7:00 pm
closed
