Contents 1. What Is Facial Gua Sha?... 4

Contents 1. What Is Facial Gua Sha?... 4 What are the benefits of facial gua sha?... 4 Why is the gua sha tool better than my fingers?... 4 Is facial gua sha painful?... 5 Does facial gua sha cause bruises?... 5 Why this tool?... 5 Is facial gua sha for me and my skin type?... 5 2. Know the Basics... 6 Acupressure Points... 6 Reflexology Zones... 9 Lymphatic System... 11 3. Telltale Signs on Our Face... 12 4. How to Use This Book... 16 5. About The Tool... 17 6. The Strokes... 18 7. The 7-Step Routine... 20 8. Tackling Stubborn Aging Signs... 23 11 Wrinkles/ Frown Lines... 23 Crow s Feet Wrinkles... 24 Forehead Wrinkles... 25 Wrinkles at Corner of Mouth and Cheek... 26 Freckles... 27 Sagging Skin... 28 Puffy Face... 29 Dark Circles... 30 Eye Bags... 31 Melasma/ Chloasma on Forehead... 32 Melasma/ Chloasma at Outer Bottom Corner of Eye... 33 Melasma/ Chloasma on Cheek... 34 Shop Acupressure Products by Dragon Acupuncture... 35 Sources... 36 About Us... 36

The information on acupressure points for beauty and facial scraping massage techniques contained in this book are best of our knowledge as well as research. The information is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice of physicians. Speak with your trusted professionals prior to practicing methods in this book. Please keep in mind that reactions and results may vary with each individual. Copyright 2018 Easytech Trading Pte. Ltd. Except as provided by the U.S. Copyright Act of 1976, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of the publisher. 3

1. What Is Facial Gua Sha? Gua Sha, a natural alternative therapy invented by the Ancient Chinese, involves scraping your skin with a massage tool to stimulate microcirculation of the soft tissue, which increases blood circulation. Through these strokes, it is believed that the stagnant energy ( qi ), responsible for the inflammation causing chronic pain and sickness, can be stimulated to flow smoothly again. Facial gua sha is a much gentler version of the gua sha applied on the body. It is not expected to cause bruises or skin rashes on the face and can be practiced frequently to improve various skin conditions. By applying simple varying strokes to selected reflexology zones and acupressure points, we can address a wide range of skin problems effectively. Instant results in erasing fine lines, puffiness and achieving better complexion are often observed. Over time, enduring aging signs such as wrinkles and sagging skin can be reduced. And all you need is a special facial gua sha tool that is gentle on your skin and a few minutes of your time each day. The massage techniques in this book incorporate theories of gua sha (acupressure), facelift massage and lymphatic drainage. So three things happen when the skin is scraped: 1. Surface of skin and particular acupoints are stimulated to increase blood circulation and flow of qi (results in better complexion and reduces various skin problems) 2. Tense facial muscles are relaxed as pressure is applied (reduces depth of wrinkle lines), and 3. Stagnant lymph is activated to clear out toxins (reduces puffiness) What are the benefits of facial gua sha? With practice and patience, facial gua sha can achieve the following Firms up your sagging facial muscles Smoothens the skin and reduces the appearance of wrinkles on your face Improves dark circles and bags under the eyes (the kind you get from advancing age) Lightens age spots and other skin discolorations Your complexion gets rosier and more radiant Helps clear up acne, rosacea, and other skin diseases on your face This is inexpensive. You can do it at the comfort of your home. Treat yourself to home facial spa anytime you want. Why is the gua sha tool better than my fingers? The tool is better than your fingers in various ways. Firstly, your fingernails won t get in the way or accidentally scratch your face. And you won t tire your finger joints when you apply pressures on your finger tips for some time. Moreover, the tool is smooth all around, cool to touch and can reach every corners of your face. You will be amazed at how easy it is to adjust pressure simply by positioning and tilting the tool in different ways. 4 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

Is facial gua sha painful? No, it is not supposed to be painful at all. As you perform gua sha on yourself, you are able to apply varying pressure that is at balance between pain and comfort. As a rule of thumb, we typically apply more pressure to areas with muscles, for example cheeks, as compared to those with little muscles such as neck and eye regions. As you scrape, you may come across spots where you feel dull aches. These spots are often regions of congestion of qi according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) or areas with lymphatic blockage. At these spots, we continue to scrape but with lighter pressures and slower strokes. With several more sessions, you can feel that the pain goes away and with that the particular facial problem related to this congestion gets mitigated. Does facial gua sha cause bruises? Unlike body gua sha, we hold the gua sha tool at a much smaller angle to the face (for more details, refer to Chapter 6) and apply much less force as the face is more sensitive than other parts of the body. As such, bruises or sha (rashes due to breaking of capillaries) are not expected. If redness persists after facial gua sha, this means that you have applied too much pressure. Use lighter hand and apply more lubricant (oil, cream, gel or lotion) for the next session. With practice, you will get it right. Beginners are advised to start with the lightest pressures such that the routine can be performed regularly. Why this tool? Ancient Chinese started with using ceramic spoons for gua sha. Other common materials developed over the years include jade, bian stone, buffalo horn, wood and stainless steel. The tools often come in various shapes and sizes, and are usually targeted for application on the body. Our tool, designed for the sole application on faces, has corners and edges that can nicely fit our facial contour (for more details, refer to Chapter 5). As compared to wood, our material, microcrystalline ceramic, does not get moldy when damp and can be cleaned with soap easily. Unlike normal ceramic, jade or buffalo horn, our tool is made of a specially strengthened ceramic that does not crack or break as easily when dropped. Our tool is much more economical than stainless steel ones, which are more suitable for applications on large muscle groups. We also offer a 60-day replacement guarantee should there be any damage to the tool. (Contact us: info@dragon-acupuncture.com). Is facial gua sha for me and my skin type? It is suitable for most adults with any skin types. It is a natural and non-invasive way of injecting youth to your skin and mitigating skin problems. There are however a few things to note: 1. Avoid directly scraping on inflamed skin e.g. acne 2. If you have sensitive skin, make sure that you use a gentle hand and clean the scraping tool thoroughly before use. 3. Beginners have a tendency to apply too much force. It is advised to start with lightest pressures when you first start practicing scraping. 5 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

2. Know the Basics Our massage method takes into consideration the lymphatic draining, acupressure point system and reflexology zones on our face. We would not burden you with the detailed theories, but here is the basic knowledge that will help you understand the techniques better. Acupressure Points There are 17 acupressure points that can effectively tackle skin problems related to aging. The table below describes how to locate these points and their applications for beauty. What s more is that all the acupoints can also be applied for other issues such as eye fatigue, pain, headache etc. For example, the next time you have stuffy nose, try massaging acupoint Ying Xiang (LI-20). You will be amazed how quickly it helps clear your nose! Shen Ting (Du-24) Mei Chong (Bl-3) Jing Ming (Bl-1) Cheng Qi (St-1) Si Bai (St-1) Ying Xiang (LI-20) Yang Bai (Gb-14) Zan Zhu (Bl-2) Yu Yao Tong Zi Jiao (Gb-1) Quan Liao (SI-18) Si Zhu Kong (SJ-23) Temple Xia Guan (St-7) Jia Che (St-6) Di Cang (St-4) Cheng Jiang (Ren-24) All the acupressure points shown are located on both sides of the face with exceptions of Shen Ting (Du-24) and Cheng Jiang (Ren-24). 6 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

Point Name Direction translation Forehead Area Du-24/ GV-24 Bl-3/ UB-3 Gb-14 Eye Area Bl-1/ UB-1 Bl-2/ UB-2 Gb-1 St-1 St-2 SJ-23/ TB-23 Tai Yang/ Temple 太阳 Shen Ting 神庭 Mei Chong 眉冲 Yang Bai 陽白 Jing Ming 晴明 Zan Zhu 攢竹 Tong Zi Liao 瞳子髎 Cheng Qi 承泣 Si Bai 四白 Yu Yao 魚腰 Si Zhu Kong 絲竹空 Great Sun Spirit Courtyard Eyebrows Pouring Yang White Bring Eyes Gathered Bamboo Pupil Crevice Container of Tears Location Beauty applications Other applications Extrapolate lines from eyebrow and tip of eye. Temple is where these two lines meet Midpoint of front hairline Along hairline directly above inner tips of eyebrows On the forehead, directly above the pupil and mid-point between the eyebrow and hairline In a depression, at the inner corner of the eye At the inner tip of eyebrow, directly above the inner corner of the eye In the depression at the outer margin of the eye socket Directly below the pupil when eyes look ahead - Crow's feet wrinkles - Melasma/ Chloasma at outer bottom corner of eye - Temporal, one-sided migraine headache due to eye fatigue - Dizziness - Eye issues i.e. swelling, redness - Forehead wrinkles - Headache - Chronic sinusitis - Anxiety - Vertigo - Forehead wrinkles - Headache - Nasal obstruction - Epilepsy - Melasma/ Chloasma at forehead - Frontal headaches - Eye issues i.e. redness, swelling, twitching etc - Dark circles - Main point for all eye disorders - Dark circles - Headache - Sinus congestion - Eye allergies - Crow's feet wrinkles - Dark circles - Dark circles - Eye bags - Headache - Eye problems - Eye issues i.e. redness, dryness, twitching, itchy Four Whites Below Cheng Qi - Eye bags - Eye issues i.e. redness, excessive lacrimation, twitching - Facial paralysis Fish Loin Silken Bamboo Hollow At the midpoint of the eyebrow, in a depression directly above the pupil In the depression at the outer tip of eyebrow - Melasma/ Chloasma at forehead - Melasma/ Chloasma at forehead - Frontal headache - Disorders of the eyelids - Eye pain, redness, swelling, drooping eyelids 7 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

Point Name Direction translation Cheek Area LI-20/ CO-20 SI-18 St-7 St-6 Mouth Area St-4 Ren-24/ CV-24 Ying Xiang 迎香 Quan Liao 顴髎 Xia Guan 下关 Jia Che 颊车 Di Cang 地仓 Cheng Jiang 承浆 Welcome Fragrance Cheek Bone Crevice Below the Joint Jaw Bone Earth Granary Saliva Container Location Beauty applications Other applications Depressed regions at both sides of nose Below the outer tip of the eye, a depressed area at bottom edge of cheek bone In the depression in front of the ear, near ear hole A region when you bite, you can feel the muscles rise and harden and becomes depressed when jaw is relaxed Half of a finger distance from tip of mouth In a depression under lower lip in the mid-line - Puffy face - Freckles - Melasma/ Chloasma on cheek - Sagging skin - Melasma/ Chloasma on cheek - Wrinkles at corner of mouth and cheek - Sagging skin - Sagging skin - Puffy face - Wrinkles at corner of mouth and cheek - Sagging skin - Puffy face - Loss of smell or taste, sinus issues, allergies - Sinus congestion - Facial disorders, spasm, Bell s palsy - Upper jaw toothache - Facial pain - Lower jaw toothache - Hearing issues, deafness, ear pain, ear inflections - Facial paralysis - Toothache - Loss of voice - Facial pain, paralysis - Inability to close the eye, eye twitching - Puffy face - Facial pain, paralysis - Toothache - Voice hoarseness - Dry mouth 8 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

Reflexology Zones In TCM, different organs of the body can be stimulated and/ or healed at various points of the body not just in the location of that organ. Different areas of the hands, feet, ears, and face all correspond to different organs and systems of the body, so by applying pressure and/ or movement to these areas, a healthy flow of qi is either restored (if there was stagnation) or maintained. Therefore, by massaging different areas of our face, we are like massaging different TCM organs, which in term determine the health of our skin. TCM lung Skin function regulator TCM lung produces qi, the very element of life. It is through the lung that energy is transmitted throughout the body nourishing our skin and regulating the opening and closing of pores. If TCM lung is not functioning properly, we would have skin that is pale, lackluster, with enlarged pores or pimples may appear. TCM spleen, stomach, intestine Factory of nutrients for skin These digestive organs supply nutrients to skin. The health of TCM spleen determines if skin is supple with glow or if muscle retains its elasticity. If these TCM organs are not functioning properly, skin would turn dry and yellow due to the lack of nutrients while muscles would be lost. As a result, skin would age prematurely; spots would appear and even hair would become dry and dull. TCM heart Nutrient pump In TCM, not only does the heart pump blood, it also controls our mental activities. If TCM heart is not functioning properly, skin cells will lose nutrients. As such, our face would appear dull or dark red and prone to discoloration problems. TCM Liver Detox engine It regulates the motion of qi and stores blood. Whether we can get a clear clean facial skin, it is determined by the health of TCM liver. When we have emotional problems or lack of sleep, the qi in TCM lung become stagnant affecting the movement of qi and detoxification process. As a result, face becomes pale green and dull. If situation does not improve, over time skin discoloration, pimples, skin allergies, inflammations, loss of hair may result. TCM kidney, bladder Injection of youth TCM kidney is responsible for our body growth including skin. It determines our basic skin type, skin color and speed of aging. If TCM kidney is weak, we accumulate stagnant liquid in our body. This results in dull skin, age spots and puffy skin. People with weak kidneys are susceptible to osteoporosis, premature aging and early appearance of wrinkles. 9 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

On our face, there are regions correlated to different TCM organs. By stimulating different reflex regions, it helps stimulate the organs and in turn resolve the underlying causes to our skin problems. On the other hand, we can also peek into the health of our TCM organs by observing signs on our face. More on that in Chapter 3. Head (Face, Throat) Lung Heart Liver Small Intestine Upper Body Large Intestine Spleen & Stomach Lower Body Bladder Kidney 10 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

Lymphatic System When we massage, we move stagnant lymph on our face. Fluid and toxins from our face drain out via the right and left lymphatic ducts, which are in the little dips right above the middle of each collarbone. If we apply pressure in the correct directions, we encourage the lymphatic fluid to move along its pathways from the hairline, down the neck to the collarbone and then drain into the body. As such, we only stroke the gua sha board in one direction and not to and fro. And while all our scraping motions are from centre to side and upwards on our face, we do scrape lightly downwards on the side of the neck to collarbone to encourage the drainage of toxins away from the face. It is also important to note that lymph nodes are located very close to the skin surface; we apply the lightest pressure when we sweep down the neck to avoid bruising. Tonsil Right lymphatic duct Left lymphatic duct 11 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

3. Telltale Signs on Our Face Our face is like a mirror, reflecting our internal health and vitality. The appearance of aging signs or skin problems on different parts of our face is actually a result of problems or imbalance of our TCM organs. This was in fact one of the ways how ancient Chinese doctors carry out diagnosis without equipment or blood tests. We can learn from this and peek in on changes of our own body just by observing the changes on our face. Read the table below to understand the underlying reasons, in TCM perspective, when skin problems appear at different locations of the face. Location Signs Underlying Reasons (TCM Perspective) Other Symptoms Forehead Area Eye Area Centre of forehead Two sides of forehead Corners of eyebrows In-between eyebrows In-between the eyes Surrounding of the eyes Dull and dark Bulging green veins A lot of wrinkles Pimples/ Acnes Dull and dark or with chloasma A lot of wrinkles Pimples/ Acnes Bulging green veins Pimples/ Acnes A lot of wrinkles Red or with pimples * Insufficient qi in kidney * Insufficient oxygen in brain * Weak yang * Long-term fatigue and tense mental state * Insufficient blood circulation in the head and neck region * Insufficient qi and blood in the brain * Too much heat in lung, stomach and liver * Mentally stressed * Decline in detox ability in liver * Functional disorder in liver and gall gladder * Insufficient qi and blood in liver and gall bladder * Too much heat in liver and gall bladder * Stagnated liver and gall bladder * Poor blood circulation * Disorder in spleen and stomach * Too much heat in stomach * Weak blood and qi in lung * Too much heat in lung * Inflammation in throat * Brain fatigue * Mental exhaustion * Fatigue * Mental exhaustion * Insufficient sleep * Insufficient water intake *Insomnia or sleep with lots of dreams * Decline in function in liver and gall bladder * Bitter taste in mouth * Insomnia * Mentally stressed * Dizziness * Headache Pale * Weak qi in heart * Mental exhaustion A lot of wrinkles Skin appears dull and dark Crow s feet wrinkles Wrinkles below the outer corner of eye * Weak qi and blood in heart * Weak qi in kidney * Menstrual disorder * Insufficient qi and blood in gall bladder meridian * Insufficient sleep * Fatigue * Weak upper body * Inflammation at shoulders 12 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

Location Signs Underlying Reasons (TCM Perspective) Other Symptoms Eye Area (continued) Nose Area Cheek Area Surrounding of the eyes (continued) Middle of ridge Whole nose Chloasma below the outer corner of eye * Muscle strain at shoulder and neck * Painful shoulder and neck * Inflammation at shoulders Sagging under eye * Weak qi in stomach and spleen * Loss of appetite * Indigestion Puffy eye bags Long-term dark circles Dull and dark, with green veins Appearance of cross or horizontal wrinkles Red Green veins at ridge * Over-eating * Beware of high level of lipids * Exhaustion * Going to bed past midnight * Early signs of gynecological problems * Weak kidney * Menstrual disorder * Weak qi in liver and kidney * Sore waist * Spinal problems * Too much heat in stomach and spleen * Alcohol overdose * Stomach ache * Bloated tummy * Indigestion Tip of nose Dull and greenish * Too much chill in spleen * Coldness in abdomen * Cold feet Side of nose Front Side Dull and lack luster Pimples/ acnes, blackheads Dull red or with pimples/ acnes Appearance of red capillaries Chloasma Chloasma, dull or age spots Pimples/ acnes * Weak qi in stomach * Weakening of functions of stomach and intestines * Long-term constipation * Too much consumption of oily and fatty food * Accumulation of heat in small intestine * Stagnated flow of qi and blood of the heart meridian * Weak qi in heart * Stagnated flow of blood in heart * Weakening of digestive system * Weak qi in heart * Stagnated blood flow * Weak qi in kidney * Disorder in metabolism * Too much heat in stomach and small intestine * Accumulation of toxins in intestines * Too much sweet food * Lack of control in diet * Moody * Irritable 13 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

Location Signs Underlying Reasons (TCM Perspective) Other Symptoms Lip Area Lip Surrounding of the lips Upper Lip Lower Lip Tongue Bright red lips Green purplish lips Pale lips Black lips Wrinkles at corners of mouth Pimples/ acnes around the mouth Chloasma Dull red Wrinkles Pale or appears green Red * Fever * Inflammation in respiratory path * Congested blood flow at heart * Lack of oxygen * Intoxication * Malnutrition * Weak in blood * Problems in digestive system * Weakening of kidney function * Weak qi in stomach * Early signs of stomach diseases * Too much heat in stomach and intestine * Lack of control in diet * Stagnated movement in stomach and intestines * Weak and chill large intestine * Beware of ovarian diseases * Too much heat in large intestine * Irregular menstrual period * Beware of ovarian diseases * Weak qi in large intestine * Beware of ovarian diseases * Too much chill in large intestine * Weakening of the ovaries * Decline in sexual functions * Too much heat in the stomach * Gastritis * Cold limbs * Constipation * Irregular periods * Bad breath * Constipation or diarrhea * Bloated abdomen * Stomach ache Pale white * Too much chill in stomach * Loss of appetite * Stomach feels cold and sore Bulging green veins under tongue * Veins at under tongue are reflection of coronary veins in our heart. * Green veins are a sign of poor blood circulation at heart * If the green veins are bulging and twisted with dull and purplish appearance, beware of coronary heart diseases 14 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

Location Signs Underlying Reasons (TCM Perspective) Other Symptoms Chin Area Dull and lack luster * Weak qi in kidney * Too much chill in uterus * Endocrine disorders * Sore waist * Irregular periods Horizontal wrinkles * Weak kidney * Waist pain * Hemorrhoids Middle Red, pimples/ acnes * Endocrine disorder * Beware of ovarian diseases * Irregular periods Green veins * Tired and lack energy * Sore waist and weak knees * Rheumatism in lower body Dull or with chloasma * Poor blood circulation in lower body * Sore in lower body * Feeling cold * Indigestion Two sides Lots of wrinkles, sagging skin * Weak qi in spleen * Weakening of digestion system * Lack of strength in lower body Pimples/ acnes, dull and lack luster * Too much liquid and heat in stomach and intestines 15 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

4. How to Use This Book In the book, we demonstrate a simple 7-step routine that can be easily added to your daily beauty regimen (see Chapter 7). In each step, we provide suggestions on the part of the tool to use and the amount of pressure to apply. The standard scraping routine goes over most parts of the face and can be completed within a few minutes. After this, you would probably observe reduction in puffiness, smoothened fine lines, and a better complexion. In the Chapter 8, we focus on addressing specific stubborn aging signs utilizing the TCM theories in acupressure and reflexology. There are numerous acupressure points on our face. By knowing the correct spots to apply stimulation, we can effectively address facial problems to the point (pardon the pun). In TCM, the very area where aging signs, i.e. wrinkles, dark spots, dull skin appear is a reflection of problem of TCM organ. By stimulating those reflex zones, we can help solve the core problems inflicting the aging signs. You can pick additional massages related to your concern from this chapter and add them to the standard 7-step routine. 16 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

5. About The Tool Our facial tool is made of microcrystalline ceramic, which feels like ceramic to the touch but is much stronger and has better tolerance to breakage and cracks. It is smooth with no sharp edges and cool to touch. The board is shaped with the different curves and edges that fit the contours of our face. Part 2 Forked area for jaw line Part 1 Pointed end for massaging specific acu-points and get to hard to reach area Part 3 Flat edge for sweeping at higher pressure than the long curved edge (Part 6) Part 6 Long curved in edge for sweeping large areas like cheek, neck Part 5 Less pointed end for massaging points (less pressure than part 1) Part 4 Rounded curved out edge for sweeping large area like forehead The more pointed the edge; the higher pressure is the stroke. For example, if you find part 1 to be painful, try part 5, which has a larger angle. Refer to our suggested use of tool part in the diagrams when you first start. But do feel free to experiment on your own. Besides the gua sha board, you will also need a mirror (placed on wall or desk) and some form of lubricants. There are many different lubricants that you can use. You can select any natural facial oils such as almond oil, grape seed oil and coconut oil. Or just use your usual facial lotion, cream or oil. The key is to reduce friction when you sweep the board on your face. Do remember to clean the oil off your face after each scraping session before you apply your usual facial cream or oil. To care for the tool, clean with soap water or alcohol swab and dry after each use. Keep it safely to prevent it from dropping or colliding with hard objects. 17 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

6. The Strokes To hold the gua sha board, rest the edge of the board on your palm while your thumb and the remaining four fingers hold onto either side of the board. For techniques used in this book, there are only 3 simple strokes that you need to master. 1. Scrape Use the long edges of the gua sha board to cover more skin, and tilt it at about 15 degree angle to the skin surface, almost flat but not quite, and glide the board to give a gentle pull on the skin. The smaller the angle, the gentler is the pressure. Remember that for our face, we do not want to scrape with more than 45 degree angle as it may cause bruises. Use the curved edge to sweep from centre to the side on forehead to reduce appearance of wrinkles Use the forked area to grab the jaw and pull upwards toward the ear to refine the jaw line Use the large curved edge to lift up the cheek from the side of mouth towards temple to firm up the sagging skin 18 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

2. Point press in circular motion Unlike sweep motion, we only use the tip of the gua sha tool to apply pressure in stationary circular motion on a specific point. We apply this massage to stimulate acupressure points. We typically position the tip at about 30 degree angle to the skin surface. Feel free to adjust the angle to get the right amount of pressure. Again, start with a lighter hand. Use the tip to massage acu-point Cheng Jiang (Ren-24) Use the tip to massage acu-point Tong Zi Liao (Gb-1) Use the tip to massage acu-point Ying Xiang (LI-20) 3. Flat Press in circular motion Very similar to point press, we position the tip almost flat to the skin surface to cover a larger area and apply pressure in circular motion on that area. We use this massage to warm up reflex zones. Massage in circular motion with the tip almost flush with our skin surface to warm up the reflex zone for head (face + throat) 19 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

7. The 7-Step Routine This simple routine can be performed regularly. We suggest limiting the massage to once a day and 3-5 times a week. The routine takes less than 5 minutes. You can incorporate additional problem-specific strokes in chapter 8 to this routine. Before you start, you should apply some cream, gel, oil or lotion to a dry, clean face to prepare the skin. You also have to remember to clean the gua sha board with soap before and after each session. Please take note All sweeping motions should be done in one single direction, never back and forth. All our scraping motions will be upwards as we are countering sagging with the only exception at step 1 when we sweep our lymphatic ducts in the dumping direction away from our face. The tool should glide smoothly over the face. If this isn't the case, add more moisturizer as needed. Avoid directly massaging broken skin, blemishes and other sensitive areas. You may experience a dull ache on certain spots. These spots could be related to lymphatic drainage or congestion of qi in TCM. You do not need to avoid those painful spots. Just stroke slowly and with lighter pressure if it is too painful. This painful spot will go away after several sessions of gua sha (and that s when you mitigate the skin problem) Slight redness is common immediately after the massage and should dissipate within minutes. If the massage leaves any marks on your face, you re pressing too deep. Try to lighten your strokes, apply more lubricants or use your non-dominant hand. Do what feels right. You may follow the strength scale on the amount of pressure to apply for different strokes. Or experiment on your own to use varying degrees of pressure on different parts of the face. Feel free to spend extra or less time massaging different areas of your face. If you have sensitive skin prone to spots, you will have to use very light force. Limit the massage to once a day. If you are susceptible to puffiness, we advise you to perform the routine in the morning. If you would like the facial gua sha massage as a way to relax tense facial muscles, you can do it at night. Start with a few sessions a week and slowly work up to 5 times a week. 20 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

For each step, apply each stroke for 3-5 times on one side of the face, and then repeat the same on the other side before moving on to the next step. Diagrams below indicate suggested use of the tool and relative amount of pressure but do feel free to experiment. Step Stroke Tips Preparation Apply cream, gel, oil, or lotion generously to a dry clean face Clean the gua sha board with soap or water Position your face in front of mirror with good light Warm up lymphatic drainage path Use the large curved side to sweep at a small angle from outer corner of the jaw, near the ear lobe, down to the dip above the middle of the collarbone on the same side. 1 Be very gentle. Lymph nodes are very close to the surface. We only want to warm up the drainage path so that toxins can be drained away from our face easily when we massage later. Smoothen out forehead wrinkles Use the curved end to scrape in fluid motion from the centre of forehead ( third eye ), above the eyebrow, outwards to hairline. 2 Position the tool at 15 degree angle to the skin. You can apply more pressure as long as comfortable. 3 Brighten up the eyes Use the large tip to glide from the inner corner, apply pressure outwards against eye socket to the outer corner of the socket, stay on the brow bone, in each stroke. Sweep similarly at the under eye area (where eye bags would show up). At the inner and outer corners, stay momentarily to apply small pressure in circular motions to further stimulate blood circulation. Be gentle and do not pull the delicate skin around the eye. 4 Tighten the cheeks/ Reduce smile lines 2-stroke movement for the cheek. Upper stroke starts at middle of the nose and go upwards to end at the temple. Bottom stroke starts at the base of nose towards the root of the ear. Apply more pressure to lift up the face. The correct amount of pressure gives you the right balance of pain and comfort. At region of pain, go slower. With time, the pain point will go away. ** You may use the other hand to hold the skin while you scrape. 21 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

Step Stroke Tips Erase fine lines at upper lip Start at centre of upper lip and glide outwards to end at corner of the mouth. 5 Tighten chin area From the centre of chin upwards and end at where your chewing muscles are. 6 Go ahead to apply more pressure to lift up the face with each stroke. ** You may use the other hand to hold the skin while you scrape. Refine jaw line/ Reduce double chins Use the fork of the tool to fit into jaw line and start with the tool pressing against the middle of chin and the soft area under chin (where a double chin would show up). Then scrape upwards to the bottom of your ear lobe. 7 Go ahead to apply more pressure to lift up the face with each stroke. Finish Your face should feel slightly warmed after the session as if you ve just finished a light jog. Massage your face with fingertips to let the cream soak in and then rinse off. After that, apply your usual facial moisturizer when your skin is still energized and warm. Drink a glass of warm water to enhance the drainage of toxins. Clean the gua sha board. Tips: Please take extra care in cleaning the eye area after each session, especially if you are susceptible to milia seeds, as the cream, gel or oil you use for the face may not be suitable for the delicate eye area. 22 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

8. Tackling Stubborn Aging Signs You can pick techniques from this chapter and add it to the 7-step routine. Wrinkles As we age, collagen and our ability to replenish elastic fiber in our skin diminish. As collagen becomes thin or broken, wrinkles appear. In TCM, wrinkles are signs of lack of blood and qi. As different regions of our face correspond to different TCM system and organ, the region where wrinkle first appears indicates the ageing of our corresponding TCM organ. 11 Wrinkles/ Frown Lines We focus on two reflex zones on our face, namely, 1. Head, face, throat, and, 2. Heart & lung. Apply flat press, with the tool tip almost flat to the face, and massage in circular motion. Do so for 5-10 times until the skin feels warm and turns slightly pink. In TCM, area between the eyes, where frown lines appear, corresponds to TCM heart and lung. Excessive wrinkles at this area could be a sign that you have over-exhausted yourself, thus harming TCM heart. To nourish the TCM heart and lung, make sure that you get sufficient rest. Flat Press in Circular Motion Head, face, throat reflex zone: At centre of forehead near hairline Flat Press in Circular Motion Heart & Lung reflex zones: Between eye brows 23 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

Crow s Feet Wrinkles Apply massage in circular motions at two acu-points: Tong Zi Liao (Gb-1) and Temple, and also in regions where wrinkles are. Do so for 5-10 times until the skin feels warm and turns slightly pink. Repeat on the other side of the face. Temple: Meeting point of the extrapolated lines from eyebrow and tip of eye. Tong Zi Liao (Gb-1): In a depression at the outer margin of the eye socket 24 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

Forehead Wrinkles Use the large curved tip to scrape upwards at the hairline, making sure that you pass acu-points Shen Ting (Du- 24) at center and Mei Chong (Bl-3) at both sides. Do so for 10 times. In addition, flat press in circular motion the region at the center just below the hairline. By massaging this head reflex zone, we can help relax the brain. Do so for 5-10 times until the skin feels warm and turns slightly pink. Centre of the forehead corresponds to TCM brain organ. The appearance of forehead wrinkles is a sign of fatigue and lack of oxygen in the brain. If you have excessive wrinkles at this region, you need to avoid overworking your brain and learn to relax (and reduce worries). Scrape Across Acupoints Shen Ting (Du-24): At midpoint of hairline Mei Chong (BI-3): Along hairline directly above inner tips of eyebrows Flat Press in Circular Motion Head, face, throat reflex zone: At centre of forehead near hairline 25 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

Wrinkles at Corner of Mouth and Cheek Use the long curved side of the board to sweep from chin, below the lower lip, up and out towards the earlobe. Then end the stroke with point massages at acupoints Xia Guan (St-7) and Jia Che (St-6) using the pointed tip of the tool. Repeat this set of strokes for 5-10 times. Then repeat on the other side of the face. Also, massage the lower body reflex zone at the lower cheek. Flat press with circular motions for 5-10 times. Then, repeat on the other side of the face. Wrinkles at corner of the mouth are signs of insufficient strength of the lower body, and weakness in TCM spleen and kidney. To aid reduction of wrinkles in this region, add some exercise routines, such as weight training, to increase the muscle strength of the lower body. Xia Guan (St-7): In the depression in front of the ear, near ear hole Scrape Up Along Jaw Line From center of chin up and out towards ear lobe Jia Che (St-6): A spot at your jaw where when you bite, muscles rise and harden Flat Press in Circular Motion Lower Body reflex zone: Lower cheek area near mouth 26 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

Freckles Freckle is a sign of weakness in TCM kidney, causing poor circulation of blood and qi. Working on the 7-step whole face massage routine would help facilitate blood circulation and metabolism of skin cells, and dissipation of the melanin to reduce the signs of freckles. On top of the daily routine, massage the lung and kidney reflex zones with the tip positioned almost flat to the face for 5-10 times each. Lung is responsible for metabolism of skin cells while kidney stores energy. Massaging these two reflex zones would further enhance metabolism and blood circulation. In addition, massage acupoint, Ying Xiang (LI-20), at both sides of nose for 5-10 times until skin feels warm. Furthermore, apply flat massage in regions where freckles appear for 5-10 times until skin feels warm and turns slightly pink to enhance blood circulation to the troubled spots. Flat Press in Circular Motion Lung reflex zone: Area between eye brows Flat Press in Circular Motion Kidney reflex zone: At lower outer corner of the eye on cheek bone * Plus area with freckles Ying Xiang (LI-20): Located at a depression at both sides of the nose 27 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

Sagging Skin In TCM, sagging cheeks is a reflection of poor digestive functions of spleen and stomach, which are responsible in replenishing nutrients for the skin, causing skin to lose its elasticity prematurely. Locate and point press these four acupoints at both sides of the face, namely, Xia Guan, Jia Che (St-6), Quan Liao (SI-18) and Di Cang (St-4). Massage each point in circular motions for 5-10 times. Next, use the big curve edge of the tool to perform a gentle slow upward circular motion across the cheeks. Ensure sufficient lubricant on your face before you start. Apply larger pressure whenever you sweep upwards. Do so for 5-10 times on each side of the face. Your face should feel warm after this scraping. Finally, perform a flat press in circular motion for 5-10 times on the reflex zones for small & large intestines at both sides of the face to help improve digestion and absorption of nutrient in the body. Flat Press in Circular Motion Small & large intestine reflex zones: Area next to the ridge of the nose Scrape Up in Circular Motion From center of chin up and out towards ear lobe Xia Guan (St-7): In the depression in front of the ear, near ear hole Quan Liao (SI-18): Below the outer tip of the eye, a depressed area at bottom edge of check bone Jia Che (St-6): A spot at your jaw where when you bite, muscles rise and harden Di Cang (St-4): Half of a finger distance from tip of mouth 28 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

Puffy Face Repeat steps 4 and 6 of 7-step routine to sweep up the face from centre or another 5 times. Then perform point press on the following acupoints: Ying Xiang (LI-20), Di Cang (St-4), Jia Che (St-6) on both sides of the face and Cheng Jiang (Ren-24). Do so for 5-10 times until skin feels warm. Ying Xiang (LI-20): Depressed regions at both sides of nose Di Cang (St-4): Half of a finger distance from tip of mouth Jia Che (St-6): A spot at your jaw where when you bite, muscles rise and harden Cheng Jiang (Ren-24): In a depression below lower lip in the mid-line 29 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

Dark Circles Dark circles are often accompanied with lack of sleep, sore waist, irregular periods, and lack of energy. Persistent dark circles are sometimes an early sign of gynecological problems. To reduce dark circles, repeat step 3 of the daily routine 5 more times to increase blood circulation to the eye surrounding. As you scrape, look for area with pain sensation and then focus on massaging that area. In addition, perform point press for the four acupoints around the eye for 5-10 times on each side of the face. For acupoint, Jing Ming (Bl-1), you may position the tip at 90 degree angle to the face to reach this narrow point. Just to share a few more beauty tips Try to drink a cup of carrot juice or tomato juice every morning to help reduce eye fatigue. Drink more water to help remove toxins. Have sufficient sleep and go to bed early. 10pm to 2am is the period for sleeping soundly to nourish TCM liver, highly related to eye health. If you are not asleep during this period, condition of dark circles could worsen. Zan Zhu (Bl-2): At the inner tip of eyebrow, directly above the inner corner of the eye Tong Zi Liao (GB-1): In a depression at the outer margin of the eye socket Cheng Qi (St-1): Directly below the pupil when eyes look ahead, between the eyeball and rim of eye socket Jing Ming (Bl-1): In a depression, at the inner corner of the eye 30 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

Eye Bags Eye bags, sagging skin below the eye or wrinkles under the eye are signs of weak qi in TCM stomach and spleen. It is often accompanied with loss of appetite, decline in digestive functions, bloated stomach or constipation. Persons with puffy eye bags often over-eat and have poor metabolism of fats. They need to beware of issues of high lipids. If the eye bags are persistent and very obvious, the person needs to beware of arteriosclerosis. Medical checkup is advised. To reduce the signs of eye bags, massage these two acupoints, Cheng Qi (St-1) and Si Bai (St-2) directly below the center of the eyes. Perform point press in circular motion for 5-10 times at each point and on both sides of the face. Cheng Qi (St-1): Located below the pupil when eyes looking forward, between the eyeball and rim of eye socket Si Bai (St-2): Located below the pupil, in a depression on cheek bone 31 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

Skin Discoloration Skin discoloration such as Melasma/ Chloasma on face usually occurs on pregnant, post-natal or middle-aged women. It is closely related to body exhaustion, high mental stress, irregular periods and constipation. In TCM, it is due to disorder in skin blood circulation as result of insufficient or stagnant qi and blood, and imbalance in TCM organs. The spot where skin discoloration occurs often reflects stagnant blood and qi of the corresponding reflex TCM organs. By focusing on strengthening the corresponding TCM organs, we can attempt to solve the skin discoloration problem at its core. Melasma/ Chloasma on Forehead Skin discoloration often occurs at the both sides of the forehead, where the meridian for gall bladder is. It indicates a disorder of TCM liver and gall bladder. Scrape from center of forehead out and sideways towards hairline, similar to step 2 of daily routine, but with addition of scraping the eye brow. Make sure you scrape past the 3 acupoints, namely, Yang Bai (Gb-14), Yu Yao and Si Zhu Kong (SJ-23). To enhance result, massage areas of discoloration. Do so for 5-10 times on each side of the face. Scrape Outward Through Acupoints Yang Bai (Gb-14): On the forehead, directly above the pupil and mid-point of the eyebrow Yu Yao: At the midpoint of the eyebrow, in a depression directly above the pupil Si Zhu Kong (SJ-23): In the depression at the outer tip of eyebrow Flat Press in Circular Motion Area with skin discoloration 32 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

Melasma/ Chloasma at Outer Bottom Corner of Eye The cheek area under the eye is the reflex zone for upper body. As such, the appearance of skin discoloration at the outer bottom corner of the eye is a sign of chill or strains at the shoulder joints. A person needs to beware of ailment at shoulder region. Focus on scraping region under eye. Scrape out from center towards temple. Then, massage the temple using point press in circular motion. In addition, apply flat press to massage the cheek area under the eye and area with discoloration. Do so for 5-10 times on each side of the face until skin feels warm. Scrape Under Eye From inner corner of the eye out and up towards the temple Temple: Extrapolate lines from eyebrow and tip of eye. Temple is where these two lines meet Flat Press in Circular Motion Upper body reflex zone: Area below outer corner of eye * Plus area with skin discoloration 33 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

Melasma/ Chloasma on Cheek The appearance of melasma/ chloasma on cheek is often accompanied with symptoms like shortness of breath, lack of energy, feeling flustered, tightness at chest and decline in digestion functions e.g. loss of appetite, bloated abdomen and diarrhea. It is a sign of weakening in digestive systems and cardio functions. Apply point press to the two acupoints, namely, Ying Xiang (LI-20) and Quan Liao (SI-18). Also flat press the intestine reflex regions and area with skin discoloration. Do so for 5-10 times on both side of the face until skin feels warm. Flat Press in Circular Motion Large and small intestine reflex zones: under the inner corner of the eyes * Plus area with skin discoloration Quan Liao (SI-18): Below the outer tip of the eye, a depressed area at bottom edge of check bone Ying Xiang (LI-20): Depressed regions at both sides of nose 34 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com

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Sources 国医绝学健康馆. (2011). 刮痧排毒. Nielsen A. (2007). The effect of Gua Sha treatment on the microcirculation of surface tissue: a pilot study in healthy subjects. Regional Office for the Western Pacific, World Health Organization (WHO). 1993. Standard Acupuncture Nomenclature, 2nd ed (pdf) 张秀勤. (2011). 刮痧美容. About Us P. Sze, despite her background as an engineer, is passionate about Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and natural therapies. With strong desire for organization and efficiency, her ambition is to tap into the vast, and often times complex, world of Chinese Medicine to extract useful relevant resources, and to present it in a simple manner that everyone can readily apply in everyday life. TCMTips.com is a growing compilation of resources and community related to TCM and natural therapies. Its core belief is that the solutions of many pains and sickness in modern world can be resolved by simply changing lifestyle and applying natural remedies. Dragon Acupuncture is a line of acupressure products that are value packed with content, such as ebook. The solutions developed are so simple that beginners can try out on their own with little or no help from professionals. CONTACT Email: info@dragon-acupuncture.com Website: TCMTips.com FaceBook: www.facebook.com/dragon.acupuncture.therapy 36 Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. TCMTips.com