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Benefits of Craniosacral Therapy

Our Health is our Wealth

Craniosacral Therapy (CST) is a light touch therapy which has a long history of development through the life and work of AT Still, WG Sutherland and John E Upledeger. A gentle hands-on method of evaluating and enhancing the function of the craniosacral system, this physiological system helps protect and assist the delicate tissues of our nervous system; such as the brain, spinal cord and fine nerve fibres. It is comprised of the bones of the head, spine, face and mouth as well as the fascia and more delicate membranes and fluids contained within.

This is a therapy which enhances the body’s own healing abilities. CST in its essence involves gentle manipulations as the therapist both tests for restrictions and “listens” to the quality of the craniosacral rhythm, which the body regulates and maintains in order to feed and nurture our delicate nervous tissues. The forces used are exceedingly light and although the focus is in and around the head and spinal column, the treatment may be applied anywhere on the body.

CST clears restrictions in the fascial tissues of the body. These are the soft tissue layers that are continuous throughout the whole body and envelop every organ, muscle and bone down to the individual cells. As a light, hands-on approach, CST harmonizes with the body's natural hydraulic forces and movements, thus encouraging and enhancing the body's inherent natural healing abilities. This gentle releasing of chronic tensions within the body can effect major changes in both physical and emotional well-being.

All events in life are perceived by the body through the sensory network of nerves going into the brain. These events include trauma of any nature; injury, physical or emotional trauma, or could be chemical or biological in nature. Everything the body experiences, is recorded in the tissue and may cause restrictions. These may then manifest as disease, dysfunction or poor healing, as the body’s own healing and self-corrective techniques are overwhelmed and therefore less efficient.

Craniosacral therapy enhances the function of the Autonomic Nervous System, which consists of the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems. The body heals and repairs itself when the parasympathetic is dominant i.e. when we are most relaxed or asleep. The sympathetic nervous system, known as the “Fight or Flight” system is affected by the modern way of living and this can lead to undue stress. At worst this can be a chronic debilitating condition as we all know.

Relaxation has long been valued for its healing and restorative effects on the body and encouraging deep states of relaxation in the body is easily facilitated by Craniosacral therapy. The main centres of the nervous system lie in the cranial and sacral regions and the gentle manipulations of CST modulate the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems, optimising the function of both. Craniosacral therapy requires no equipment, only the gentle hands and clear intention of the therapist. Everybody can avail themselves of its benefits, from babies to centenarians (and beyond).

Craniosacral therapy is useful as both a primary treatment method or as part of a treatment programme combined with other traditional or complementary techniques. The vast majority of conditions are safe to be treated with craniosacral therapy.

In conclusion the aim of CST is to assist and support the body as it heals itself and to optimise its functional level.

 Due to its gentleness and effectiveness, many people include CST as a component in their personal wellness programs.

Some examples of how CST may prove helpful can be found in the following section.

 

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