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Craniosacral

Currently only offered out of our Vernon Location

What is Craniosacral Therapy?

Craniosacral therapy, also known as CST, was formulated by Dr. John Upledger during the 1970s. This modality encompasses a set of hands-on healing techniques where practitioners employ a delicate touch to address the bones, soft tissues, and cerebrospinal fluid enveloping the central nervous system. The craniosacral system, comprising soft tissues, fluid, and the skull, provides support to the central nervous system, encompassing the brain and spine. Through gentle manipulation of the craniosacral system, practitioners aim to alleviate pain-causing tension, fostering overall health and well-being.

 

Licensed health professionals, possessing specific certification in the field, practice craniosacral therapy. In contrast to other bodywork approaches, this therapy stands out for its exceptionally gentle methodology. Craniosacral therapists use minimal pressure on the patient, yet this subtle touch proves effective in relieving various health conditions. 

What to expect

In a craniosacral therapy session, the usual position is lying down on your back on a table, fully clothed throughout the entire session. The craniosacral practitioner delicately places their hands on your skull or body and, employing minute amounts of pressure, subtly adjusts to release tension and enhance the flow of cerebrospinal fluid in the craniosacral system. 

 

After the session, it's advisable to hydrate by drinking plenty of water, as your body might be expelling accumulated toxins into your bloodstream, and water aids in their elimination. Post-session, you might experience feelings of relief, relaxation, or heightened fatigue. Practitioners typically recommend taking it easy for a day or two, prioritizing rest and avoiding strenuous activities, allowing your body to adapt to any changes induced by the therapy.

 

It's not uncommon to encounter resurfacing emotions after a session. Craniosacral therapists suggest embracing patience and gently acknowledging any emerging feelings, using the experience to deepen your connection with your body.

Who can benefit from Craniosacral Therapy?

Individuals seeking alleviation from various ailments can find relief through craniosacral therapy. Numerous conditions related to the central nervous system, encompassing the brain and spine, can be addressed or ameliorated by this therapeutic approach. These conditions include pain, back pain, neck pain, brain and spinal injuries (such as concussion or traumatic brain injury), disorders of the central nervous system, chronic fatigue, stress, tension, fibromyalgia, difficulties with coordination, movement or walking, jaw disorders like TMJ, headaches or migraines, pelvic pain.

 

When administered by a skilled practitioner, craniosacral therapy proves effective in alleviating pain and stress on the central nervous system, whether stemming from acute injuries (such as back injury, concussion, or traumatic brain injury) or chronic issues like misalignment and wear and tear. This noninvasive practice requires minimal recovery time and lacks the notable side effects associated with surgical or medication-based treatments.

 

The body-mind connection is emphasized in craniosacral therapy, acknowledging that illness may have emotional as well as physical origins. Practitioners, including craniosacral therapists, believe that emotional pain leading to depression, anxiety, trauma, or grief often manifests in the body as tension, contributing to physical health problems. By releasing this tension, craniosacral therapy facilitates the release of old emotional pain, with patients often experiencing re-emergence of previously trapped emotions after a session. Approached with patience and mindfulness, this process presents an opportunity for resolution.

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