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
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Can gentle bodywork be combined with acupuncture or herbs?Yes. We often recommend combining bodywork with acupuncture, cupping, or herbal medicine for a well-rounded approach to wellness.
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Will I feel sore after getting gentle bodywork done?Most clients feel relaxed or lighter. Some feel emotional or tired, which is part of the body's integration process. There is typically no soreness.
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Is gentle bodywork like a massage?It’s different in technique and intent. While massage works on muscle tissue with pressure, gentle bodywork focuses on the fascia, breath, and nervous system.
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Do I need to undress for the gentle bodywork session?No. Gentle bodywork is typically done fully clothed. Wear something comfortable and flexible.
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Do I need multiple sessions?That depends on your goals. For acute issues, one or two sessions may be enough. For chronic patterns, regular treatments yield the best results.
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Can I exercise afterward having cupping?It's best to rest or do light movement after your session to allow your body to process the effects. Avoid intense workouts for 24 hours.
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How long do the cupping marks last?Typically 3 to 7 days. The darker the mark, the more stagnation was present in that area.
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Is cupping painful?Most people find it deeply relaxing. A slight pulling or tightness is normal, but discomfort is rare and adjusted immediately.
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Can I wear makeup after getting Gua Sha treatment?After facial Gua Sha, it's best to let your skin breathe for a few hours. We apply a nourishing serum post-treatment to soothe and hydrate.
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Will Gua Sha leave bruises?Not exactly. The marks (known as sha) are different from bruises and indicate stagnant blood or fluids moving toward the surface. They are not painful and fade quickly.
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How many Gua Sha sessions will I need?Some clients feel results after one session, while others benefit from a series. For facial Gua Sha, weekly treatments for a month may offer the best cosmetic benefits.
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Does Gua Sha hurt?Gua Sha is usually gentle and relaxing. On tight or stagnant areas, you may feel a slight pulling sensation, but discomfort is minimal and always adjustable.
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Is this like Western herbalism?There is overlap, but Chinese herbal medicine is more diagnostically precise and formula-driven. More like prescription care than casual supplement use.
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Do the herbs taste bad?Some do, some don’t! But we’ll work with your preferences, capsules and tinctures are great options for sensitive taste buds.
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Are there side effects taking Herbal medicine?Side effects are rare and usually mild (such as temporary digestive changes). We monitor you closely and make formula changes as needed.
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Can I take herbs with my medications?In most cases, yes but we always check for contraindications first. Safety first.
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Can I combine acupuncture with other treatments?Absolutely. Acupuncture works beautifully alongside physical therapy, counseling, massage, and more.
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Is acupuncture safe?Yes. We use sterile, single-use needles and follow strict hygiene protocols.
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Is Acupuncture painful?Most people feel little to no pain, just a tiny pinch or pressure that quickly fades.
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Will insurance cover it?I am in-network with the following insurance companies: Blue Cross/Regence Aetna CareOregon Triwest (Veteran's Affairs) United PacificSource Moda (effective 2/25) Kaiser foundation health plan of the northwest (Intel) I am not in-network with the rest of Kaiser, which includes Kaiser OHP.
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