Gua Sha Color Chart: What Your Body Is Trying to Tell You

If you have ever tried Gua Sha, you know the "Sha"—the marks left behind—can look a bit intimidating. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), these marks aren't bruises; they are messages. They reveal the state of your Qi (energy) and Blood circulation.

Let’s explore what each color tells us about your health and how you can care for your body based on your results.

1. Bright Red and Even Marks

In TCM, bright red marks usually indicate healthy Qi flow and good blood circulation. If you see small, scattered red spots, it suggests areas where energy might be slightly stuck but is easily released.

How to Care for Your Body:

• Nutrition: Eat foods that support blood building, such as berries, beets, and dark leafy greens.
• Lifestyle: Stay hydrated and enjoy gentle movement like walking.

Recommended Gua Sha Move:

Focus on the trapezius (shoulders and neck). Glide your tool along the muscle fibers gently 5–10 times. This helps move stagnant Qi and instantly releases daily shoulder tension.

2. Dark Red or Purple Marks

Seeing dark red or deep purple? This points to Blood Stagnation. This often occurs in areas of long-term chronic tension or significant Qi blockages. It is common for people who sit at desks for long hours or carry a lot of stress.

How to Care for Your Body:

• Comfort: Use a warm compress on the area to encourage flow.
• Herbal Support: Sip on ginger or chamomile tea to warm the interior and soothe the nervous system.
• Stretching: Incorporate shoulder rolls and "Cat-Cow" yoga poses.

Recommended Gua Sha Move:

Focus on the upper back and neck. Use slow, soft strokes and pause on tight knots. Repeat 5 times per side. This supports the liver and heart meridians while encouraging fresh blood flow to tight muscles.

3. Yellow-Brown or Faded Marks

Yellowish or brownish marks usually point toward Dampness or digestive stress. In TCM, the Spleen is responsible for transforming and transporting fluids. If Dampness builds up, you might feel heavy, bloated, or chronically tired.

How to Care for Your Body:

• Diet: Eat easy-to-digest, "warming" foods like pumpkin, congee, or steamed veggies. Avoid fried foods, excessive sugar, and cold dairy.
• Hydration: Drink warm water or lemon water to support metabolism.

Recommended Gua Sha Move:

Focus on the lower back (Kidney points) and the abdomen (around the navel). Use very gentle, circular strokes to move stagnant fluids and strengthen the Spleen and Kidneys.

Post-Gua Sha Aftercare

After your session, rest for a few minutes to let your circulation settle. Remember: Gentle, consistent care helps your Qi and blood flow much more effectively than overdoing it once with too much pressure.

The body never lies; it just needs us to listen. Try these simple moves at home and notice the shift in your energy.