What is CranioSacral Therapy?
CranioSacral Therapy, (a/k/a cranial sacral therapy, CST, cranio-sacral therapy) is a noninvasive healing method. Gentle and relaxing, this is a beautiful, hands-on, holistic modality. CST effortlessly assists the body in the self-healing process.
CranioSacral Therapy is used to evaluate and enhance the functioning of the craniosacral system by working gently on the bones of the skull, spine and pelvis. This system is comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord.
CranioSacral Therapy is incredibly relaxing and can benefit anyone of any age, including babies and the elderly.
CST Benefits
CranioSacral Therapy benefits might seem endless. CST can be used as a tool in preventive health for its ability to increase resistance to disease. It is beneficial to healing a wide range of medical problems associated with pain and dysfunction.
To be more literal, we’ve included a list of medical concerns that can be improved upon by applying CST. Please note, list is not all-inclusive and results will vary.
- anxiety
- autism
- back pain
- central nervous system disorders
- chronic fatigue
- chronic neck pain
- colic
- depression
- fibromyalgia
- infantile disorders
- migraines
- motor-coordination impairments
- post-traumatic stress disorders
- stress and tension-related problems
- temporal mandibular joint syndrome (TMJ)
- traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries
Babies and children may benefit immensely from CST. Because it is noninvasive and gentle, it is an ideal holistic approach to helping them with many ailments. CranioSacral Therapy could prove to be a healthier solution to other modern day medicines and approaches.
What to expect with a CST treatment
A CST treatment is generally offered in 50 and 80 minute sessions. This treatment should not be considered a massage. The following is a guideline of what to expect, although sessions will vary.
You will remain clothed for this treatment and should wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing. Your CranioSacral therapist will conduct an evaluation and then lead you to the room where you will lay face up on the massage table.
Using a soft touch, generally about the weight of a nickel, your therapist will begin at the feet. They will use specific hand placements and gentle touches to release restrictions in the craniosacral system as they work the body from the feet up.
You will not feel much, but this subtle approach applied with intention improves the functioning of the central nervous system.
The difference you will feel depends on where your system was at when the session began. You might believe nothing happened if you don’t feel much. However, that would be an incorrect assumption because this system is delicate and requires a gentle touch to guide it back into balance.
Be advised that it is not uncommon for people to have emotional releases during a CranioSacral Therapy treatment. This is normal and very healthy.
Allow yourself to experience any kind of emotional reaction, do not resist. Go with it and allow your body to release whatever it needs to in order to reduce your stress level. Eliminating the stress provides the body an opportunity to begin healing.
Note that this release may be in the form of tears, yelling, fits of rage or sadness, etc. Do not hold back or become embarrassed. Your therapist will not be alarmed and is trained to assist you through the process.
After your appointment and how often to receive CST
After your CranioSacral Therapy session, you should be very relaxed and feel incredibly grounded. If you had a headache, hopefully it is gone!
Drink plenty of water to flush out the toxins that were released during the treatment. Take it easy for the rest of the day. Refrain from alcoholic beverages and caffeine to maintain an inner calm.
How often to receive this treatment will vary, depending on the purpose of the visit in the first place. If only to experience and maintain a healthy balance, you can go as often as you wish, unless advised otherwise by your practitioner.
Correcting a concern through CST? Then consult your therapist and heed their guidance. It is highly recommended that you stay with this therapy if you truly want the results that can be achieved.
Where to find a CranioSacral therapist
This amazing natural healing method is not as widely practiced as the more commonly known modalities. However, if you are interested in this approach and seeking a qualified therapist, you can begin your search here.
In addition, if you are interested in becoming a healing CST practitioner, we encourage you to start your search with the Upledger Institute and wish you much success on your path to healing others!
Categories for CranioSacral Therapy
Alternative Therapies
Energy Healing Techniques
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