Cranio-Sacral Therapy

CranioSacralTherapy (CST) is a gentle, non-invasive, self-corrective type of light touch bodywork. A trained practitioner evaluates the CranioSacral System (CSS) for tension and restrictions deep within the Central Nervous System (CNS). In this therapy a practitioner will gently palpate and apply pressure to the cranium, spinal cord and soft tissues to manipulate the breath also known as cranial rhythm resulting in relaxation, reduction of pain, dysfunction and stress to the body for healing and self correction. The CSS includes all the bones of the skull, face CranioSacral, mouth, and spine and includes the brain, membranes, Cerebral Spinal Fluid (CSF), spinal cord, and nerves. An experienced practitioner will also integrate SomatoEmotional Release (SER) which is a guided body dialogue to release memories (feelings and emotions) stored in the tissue. CST/SER blends well with other holistic modalities. Because CST is so gentle, it is can be effective for all ages, from newborns to the elderly. In addition to naturally eliminating pain and stress, CST strengthens one’s resistance to disease and enhances one’s overall well-being. CST/SER is typically performed on fully clothed individuals on a comfortable treatment table.

CranialSacral Therapy has its origins from the work of Dr. William Sutherland an osteopath who in simplistic lemans terms looked at the seams in the human skull and believed they were similar in nature to the gills of a fish and may function as a breathing mechanism for the brain (1873–1954). Later (1975 to 1983) John E. Upledger an osteopathic physician and neurophysiologist worked with Ernest W. Retzlaff, histologist at Michigan State University to further study Sutherlands work and developed the concept of cranial bone movement and the concept of a cranial rhythm. This eventually led to the founding of Dr. Upledger’s Institute to teach and practice CranioSacral Therapy.