What is CranioSacral Therapy
CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, non-invasive hands-on therapy that follows the subtle movement of the fascia or connective tissue and the rhythm of the cerebral spinal fluid (CSF).
Fascia is the thin layer of tissue that covers every muscle fiber and cell in the body. Fascia is the layer of tissue that connects everything together.
The practitioner will place very light “pressure” (equivalent to less than a nickel’s weight) over areas of restriction in the body. This light touch will invite the body to gently reduce fixations.
During the session the client is fully clothed and the therapist evaluates restrictions in movement from different parts of the body.
Some of the main areas that the practitioner will work are at the base of the spine (sacrum) and the uppermost part of the spine at the head (cranium).
A session usually lasts one hour but that can vary depending on the condition.
What You Might Experience during a CST Session
You might feel very relaxed and maybe even fall asleep. Many people can feel the movement of the craniosacral rhythm inside their bodies and describe it like they are floating on water. Tingling sensations and heat are also commonly felt as fixations are released.
Since Craniosacral therapy evokes a state of deep relaxation, you might tap into your subconscious and identify blocks to your healing and belief patterns that are preventing total health.
This is the most powerful and deepest aspect of this work. Many unresolved issues can be resolved with this therapy.
What are fixations or adhesions and how do they get there?
Many different processes create fixations or adhesions in the fascia. Trauma, accidents, injuries are all major events that cannot only damage bones but also muscles, nerves and fascial tissue.
Scar tissue tends to be shorter and less flexible than original fascia so surgery or other trauma also alter the balance of the fascial network. Fevers, chemicals and hormones can also alter the collagen substance causing muscle to become glued together and unable to slide across each other in order to work independently.
Who is craniosacral therapy for?
If you’re experiencing any of the following, craniosacral therapy may be a powerful support for you:
- Anxiety and chronic stress
- Fibromyalgia or musculoskeletal complaints (e.g. low back pain)
- Whiplash or other injuries from car accidents
- Migraines or Headaches
- Jaw pain or TMJ dysfunction
- Post traumatic stress responses
Do you need to stop doing other therapies if you receive Craniosacral therapy?
No. Many other therapies such as chiropractic, acupuncture, massage and homeopathy are complimentary to Craniosacral therapy and will facilitate your body in regaining health. The goals of treatment are to bring your body into optimal health so that you won’t need to have treatments other than maintenance. Talk with your health care practitioner about guiding you to the therapies that will work best for you.
Book A Session Here
I received craniosacral therapy from Tara and it was the most supportive contact, environment, and session I have had thus far. She is highly intuitive with a delicate yet magnetizing touch that really calmed my nervous system. I saw her for pressure I was feeling at my temples and behind my eyes that she was able to relieve. Her presence and relational field is supportive and nonjudgmental. I will certainly be back to continue therapy. If you have never had craniosacral therapy before Tara is an excellent therapist to book with and become introduced to this subtle yet powerful work.
-Frank B., Tucson, AZ
