Guasha (pronounced gwa-sha) and face rollers are an ancient form of self care originating from Chinese culture. Traditionally they are made from jade, but they can be found in a variety of stones today. I have pairs in jade and rose quartz. A couple of them were actually gifted to me by one of my best friends, so every time I use them there's just that little bit of extra happiness associated with my practice. So, if you're looking for a great gift idea for a friend, I'd highly recommend these. It's so nice that every time I practice my self care routine with these pieces it reminds me of their love for me too.
Face rollers are great for de-puffing the face and eyes. For an added benefit you can store one in the fridge so it's extra cold in the morning to help with the super puffy eye situation that many of us deal with. I would recommend wrapping it in a clean wash cloth and then putting it in a container for storage in the fridge to protect it.
Guasha can be used for de-puffing the face too, but they are useful for encouraging lymphatic drainage. They are useful in massage to help break down fascia and relax tight muscles. My Physical therapist usually begins our sessions with a little bit of massage to help release tightness in my chest (left over from CPR when I was in ICU when I first got sick) to ensure that I can breathe well while we exercise. She utilizes a guasha during her massages as well. You can use the guasha to really target small spaces.
Lymphtic drainage is important for every body, but especially sick bodies...and even more so if you've been immobile for a time. Our lymphatic system depends on body movement in order for it to flow, so if you're not moving...niether is your lymph. That means toxins and waste products are just sitting still in your lymph nodes. Massaging with a guasha can help it drain out and move on. Not to bad for a pretty little stone, huh?