Therapeutic Gua Sha in Los Angeles
An ancient scraping practice, performed by Gina Parra, CMT, as a body recovery and mobility tool that supports your strength and posture training.
Gua sha is a traditional East Asian technique in which a smooth-edged tool is stroked firmly across lubricated skin. At StretchFormation, therapeutic gua sha is a hands-on body treatment performed by Gina Parra, CMT, used as a supporting recovery and mobility tool, helping you feel looser and move into better positions for training. It is different from facial gua sha.
How gua sha works
The practitioner applies oil or balm, then uses a smooth tool to make repeated firm strokes along an area such as the back, shoulders or legs. The technique commonly produces temporary skin redness or marks (called sha) that typically fade within a few days. Let your practitioner know if you bruise easily or take blood-thinning medication.
Who performs it
Therapeutic gua sha at StretchFormation is performed by Gina Parra, CMT, a Certified Massage Therapist who has worked in the rehab setting and specializes in the StretchFormation method of static and dynamic postural work. Please request gua sha when you book so you are scheduled with a trained therapist.
Gua sha as a training tool
We think of gua sha as part of your recovery and mobility toolkit. Many people use it after hard training or when an area feels tight and stuck. Paired with our alignment and strength training, it can help you get into positions you then strengthen. Read more in our guide to gua sha for recovery.
Body gua sha vs. facial gua sha
Facial gua sha uses light pressure for skincare purposes. Therapeutic body gua sha uses firmer pressure on muscles and soft tissue, focused on movement and recovery.
Built to support your training
Supporting therapies help you get into better positions. Our posture, alignment & strength training is what helps you keep them, building the stability, dynamic posture and movement that support long-term physical health.
This service is offered for wellness and mobility purposes and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. Individual results vary.
Gua Sha FAQs
Will gua sha leave marks?
It often causes temporary redness or marks on the skin that usually fade within a few days. Your practitioner can adjust pressure, and you can let them know about any upcoming events.
Is gua sha safe for everyone?
Gua sha is not appropriate for everyone. Tell us if you have a bleeding disorder, take blood thinners, have skin conditions or are pregnant, and check with your healthcare provider if unsure.
How long is a gua sha session?
Sessions are 55 minutes and can be combined with other supporting therapies or training. Just ask when booking.
Ready to train into better alignment?
Start with a session in North Hollywood. We will assess how you move, then build a plan around strength, stability and posture.