Gua Sha & Moxibustion
Gua sha and moxibustion are two of the most beloved hands-on therapies in Traditional Chinese Medicine — simple, comforting practices that help the body unwind, warm, and rebalance. At Three Essentials Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine in Bloomington, MN, these therapies are offered as gentle companions to acupuncture without extra charges.
​
Though different in technique, both gua sha and moxibustion aim to support smoother circulation, deeper relaxation, and a renewed sense of vitality.
GUA SHA
-- A Gentle Release for Tension & Stagnation
What Is Gua Sha
Gua sha is a therapeutic scraping technique performed with a smooth-edged tool, traditionally made from jade, horn, or porcelain. However, at Three Essentials we adopt non-porous steel gua sha board to prevent the spread of blood borne pathogens. The tool is gently stroked across the skin to encourage circulation, loosen fascia, and soften tension held beneath the surface.
​
The strokes are rhythmic and soothing — often described as “melting tightness away.” Sensations are pleasant, grounding, and deeply relieving.
Who Gua Sha Can Support
Gua sha is especially supportive for:
-
neck and shoulder tension
-
upper back tightness
-
headaches
-
facial or jaw tension
-
stress-related stiffness
-
mild colds or early immune support (TCM perspective)
-
muscle fatigue from daily activity or exercise
​
It is a wonderful therapy for anyone who spends long hours at a desk, experiences tension from stress, or simply wants to feel more open and relaxed.
How Gua Sha Works
Gua sha gently presses and stretches the layers of soft tissue, improving microcirculation and encouraging the movement of stagnation. This improved flow helps wash away tension, soothe irritated areas, and release heat and stagnation.
​
Some people may experience light redness (sha) that fades within a few hours to a few days — a normal sign of increased circulation.
What To Expect During Gua Sha Treatment
Light oil is applied to the skin to allow the tool to glide comfortably. The strokes feel steady and soothing, with pressure adjusted to your comfort level. Most people feel instant relief in the treated areas, followed by a sense of looseness and improved mobility.
​
Treatment may be performed on the neck, shoulders, back, or face (facial gua sha uses a much gentler technique).
MOXIBUSTION
-- Warmth, Nourishment & Deep Restoration
What Is Moxibustion
Moxibustion — often called “moxa” — is a warming therapy that uses the dried herb mugwort (Ai Ye).
When lit, moxa generates a gentle heat that penetrates deeply into the tissues, offering comfort, nourishment, and energetic support.
​
This therapy has been used for centuries to warm cold conditions, move stagnation, and strengthen the body’s Qi.
What Moxa Can Help With
Moxa is especially beneficial for:
-
cold, achy, or stiff areas
-
digestive weakness
-
menstrual pain or cold-type cramps
-
fertility support (warming the womb)
-
fatigue or low energy
-
chronic cold hands and feet
-
certain immune or digestive patterns (TCM perspective)
Anyone who tends to run cold, feel drained, or experience tension that improves with warmth may benefit from moxibustion.
How Moxa Works
The heat from moxa gently stimulates circulation, loosens stagnation, and nourishes the body’s internal systems. It is deeply soothing and helps create a sense of warmth and groundedness that lingers long after treatment.
What To Expect During Moxa Treatment
During treatment, moxa is held or placed near specific acupuncture points or areas of tension. The warmth is calm, steady, and comforting — never hot or uncomfortable. The scent of mugwort is earthy and subtle, contributing to the grounding experience.
Patients often describe moxa as “deeply cozy,” “comforting,” or “like warmth sinking inward.”
Why Choose Three Essentials For Gua Sha & Moxibustion
At Three Essentials, gua sha and moxibustion are performed with careful attention and a holistic understanding of your body’s needs. Rather than routine add-ons, these therapies are chosen intentionally to complement your constitution, symptoms, and goals.
​
Dr. Guan’s approach is gentle, intuitive, and rooted in classical technique — creating sessions that feel safe, nurturing, and deeply supportive.
At Three Essentials, these therapies may be combined with acupuncture as appropriate with no extra charges to enhance relaxation, circulation, and overall balance.
Experience the Restorative Power of Gua Sha & Moxibustion
Whether you are seeking relaxation, relief from tension, or a sense of warmth and grounding, these traditional therapies offer a simple, comforting path toward balance.
​
Schedule a session or book a free 15-minute discovery call to begin.