What is CranioSacral Therapy?
Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a gentle hands-on treatment that may provide relief from a variety of symptoms including headaches, neck pain and side effects of cancer treatment among many others.
CST uses a light touch to examine membranes and movement of fluids in and around the central nervous system. Relieving tension in the central nervous system promotes a feeling of well-being by eliminating pain and boosting health and immunity.
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The focus of CST is a gentle placement of hands to assist release of the body’s connective tissue, or “fascia.” Fascia (Latin word for “band”) is a covering found throughout the body including organs, glands, nerves, muscles, blood vessels, brain and spinal cord. This covering forms a body-wide connective network. CST is based on the idea that the body is interrelated at all levels.
CST is thought to improve efficiency of biological processes through boosting inherent self-regulation, self-correction and self-healing. The therapy can be used successfully with children and adults.
Benefits of CrainoSacral Therapy
CST is thought to relieve compression in the head, neck, and back. This can soothe pain and release both emotional and physical stress and tension. It's also thought to help restore cranial mobility and ease or release restrictions of the head, neck, and nerves.
The list of conditions that can benefit from CST is long, but here is a list of a few:
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migraines and headaches
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constipation
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disturbed sleep cycles and insomnia
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sinus infections
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neck pain
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recurrent ear infections or colic in infants
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trauma recovery, including trauma from whiplash
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mood disorders like anxiety or depression
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difficult pregnancies​
What can I expect from a CranioSacral therapy (CST) session?
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A CST session is similar to massage therapy, except you stay fully clothed.
The treatment session begins with a consultation with your trained therapist to identify troubled areas. Soft music and low lighting are often used to increase your state of relaxation.
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The therapist uses gentle pressure techniques to assess the existence of possible disruptions and/or restrictions in your fascial system. Light touch and fascial release may help your muscles and organs naturally relieve stress, which improves function. Other patients often report feeling a sense of deep relaxation.
