CranioSacral Therapy (CST)

CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is a natural, hands-on method to help relieve pain and promote relaxation by assisting the body in self-correcting restrictions and dysfunctions in the CranioSacral System.

As a response to everyday stresses and strains, the body's fascia compensates. As a result, the CranioSacral System (membranes and fluids that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord, as well as the attached bones) suffers imbalances and distortions.

The CranioSacral System, named for the bones involved (the cranium and the sacrum), maintains the environment in which the central nervous system functions. The role of this system is crucial to the development and good function of the brain and spinal cord. Any imbalance in the system can result in sensory, motor and intellectual dysfunctions.

CranioSacral Therapy (CST) practitioners use a light and gentle touch to examine, evaluate and assist the body in self-correcting restrictions and dysfunctions in the system, bringing the body/mind to optimum performance levels.

CranioSacral Therapy, a natural, hands-on method to help relieve pain and promote relaxation, is used as a preventative health measure by a wide range of healthcare practitioners including osteopathic physicians, doctors of chiropractic, dentists, nurses, psychologists, physical therapists, massage therapists and other body workers.

One of the principal benefits of CST is its abillity to reverse the effects of stress by providing conditions in which the central nervous system can rest and rejuvenate. After the CranioSacral System is evaluated, specific techniques are used to release any existing restrictions or imbalances. This naturally helps eliminate the negative effects of stress, strengthens resistance to disease, and enhances overall health and wellbeing.

While the focus of CST is to uncover the source of symptoms, symptom relief is often achieved as well. A wide range of conditions have been alleviated by CST and, due to its gentleness and effectiveness, many people like to include CST as a component of their personal wellness program. Many patients report having more energy, better sleep, and being sick less often.

The few containdictions to CranioSacral Therapy are aneurysm, intracranial hemorrhage and other conditions where altering intracranial fluid is not recommended.

During a CST session (50 minutes to an hour long), loose, comfortable clothing is best. The patient may or may not experience sensations within the body as the process is carried out.

Sometimes, with the release of accumulated tension, the memory of circumstances surrounding a past trauma or injury can surface be released, leading to a process known as Somato Emotional Release. The CST therapist facilitates the patient's process of releasing negative emotions and feelings from the body's tissues, and this can have a profound effect in restoring physical and emotional health.