Craniosacral therapy is a gentle treatment approach that works with the natural, self-correcting mechanism of the body, especially the Craniosacral system (the membranes and the fluids that surround the brain and spinal cord). The work is done with hands gently on the body with usually 5 grams of touch or less. Although the work is done with lightness, it releases tension deep in the body that then assists the inherent intelligence of the mind/body connection to let go of pain and dysfunction, thereby improving whole body health and performance.
Why Craniosacral Therapy?
The craniosacral system houses the central nervous system. What this means is that when people get stressed and the body is functioning in overload, there is something that can actually be done that will nourish and quiet down the CN system and restore it into better balance and health. Additional health benefits would be experienced with lymph flow, circulation, the endocrine system and any type of chemical exchange. The influence that the craniosacral system has is powerful.
As written by Dr. Upledger in Cerebrospinal fluid: what it is and where to find it, “The brain and spinal cord are surrounded by cerebrospinal fluid, which transports nutrients, hormones and peptides of all kinds; removes metabolic waste products and toxic substances from brain tissue; serves as a shock absorber in jolts to the head; floats the brain, thus counteracting the forces of gravity; and influences respiration and cerebral blood flow through its pH, to name some of its known functions. In fact, “because of its singular and continuous fluid system, in order to bathe the neurons and glial cells of the brain, it is essential that cerebrospinal fluid flow not be impaired. If an area of brain tissue is even partially deprived of optimally effective cerebrospinal fluid motion and flow, that brain area will be forced into some degree of functional compromise.”
In doing this work, the client often finds a deeper tranquility and self-awareness through the physical and energetic changes that take place. Overall the mind/body/spirit relationship is more in synchronicity and equilibrium on all levels.
How Does Craniosacral therapy Work?
The client lies down on the table fully clothed and as comfortable as possible. The therapist will gently touch the body in different places and listen to the rhythm of the CS system. There are other techniques that one may use to evaluate the dural tube, to locate active lesions, energy cysts or other types of dysfunction also. What is important to know though is that it is the clients’ body and what it needs for health and wellbeing that directs the session. So while there is a general 10 step protocol that is generally followed, the session can lead anywhere depending on the unique movement of the session. The therapist’s role for treatment is to follow the rhythm and use direct and indirect methods to release restrictions and to support balance, and help correct normal motion within the CS system. Soft tissue work with the fascia and diaphragms is also employed in order to optimize functioning.
As listed on the upledger site, there are many benefits to CST:
Migraines and Headaches
Chronic Neck and Back Pain
Stress and Tension-Related Disorders
Motor-Coordination Impairments
Infant and Childhood Disorders
Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries
Chronic Fatigue
Fibromyalgia
TMJ Syndrome
Scoliosis
Central Nervous System Disorders
Learning Disabilities
ADD/ADHD
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Orthopedic Problems
And Many Other Conditions
Anyone can benefit from Craniosacral Therapy. Sharon has worked with babies, young children, adults and the elderly.