GETTING YOUR BODY INTO AN ORGANIZED STATE OF REPAIR
Craniosacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle non-invasive therapy that modifies and corrects restrictions in the cranial sacral system. A very light traction is directed along the natural pathways of cranial bone movement in the flexion or extension phases of the craniosacral cycle. Seldom does the therapist use more than five grams of pressure (the weight of a nickel).
The cranial sacral system is a physiological system that is responsible for the production, circulation and absorption of cerebral spinal fluid. It has a rhythm as it moves. The system consists of the membranes and fluid that surround and support the brain and spinal cord. It extends from the bones of the head (cranium) down to the bones at the base of the spine (sacrum). The fluid within the membranes is continuously draining and refilling. The filling and draining creates gentle, rhythmic, expanding and contracting movements that can be felt anywhere in the body by the trained therapist. These movements are the craniosacral rhythm. The therapist gains valuable information about where the body would most benefit from change by monitoring the craniosacral rhythm. The source of pain isn't always obvious. Impact or pathology can hinder this movement. The technique helps release problem areas and relieves undue pressure on the brain and spinal cord. The result? A central nervous system free of restrictions. There are intrinsic movements of the bones of the skull, and different rhythmic tidal motions in the body. These movements, which can be measured with delicate scientific instruments, are a direct expression of the health of the system. Palpation of these tide-like motions allows Craniosacral therapists to facilitate change in areas of restriction. This restriction of movement corresponds to a lack of the capacity of the life force to express its self-healing and may result in disease or other problems. The application of CST helps to enhance the body’s innate healing abilities, helping you return to greatest balance.
The light touch manual approach of CranioSacral Therapy enhances the body’s natural healing capabilities. For nearly 30 years is has been shown to be effective for a wide range of medical problems associated with pain and loss of function, including: traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries, migraine headaches, chronic fatigue, TMJ, motor-coordination impairments, chronic neck and back pain, scoliosis, autism, frozen shoulder, insomnia, sinusitis, tinnitus and middle ear problems, birth trauma, depression, sciatica, sports injuries, hyperactivity stress and tension-related problems, orthopedic problems, and a list that goes on and on. While the focus of CST is to uncover the source of the problem, symptom relief also is achieved. The length of time and number of sessions needed is extremely variable and depends, among other factors, on the complex layers of injury and trauma that may mask the original cause of the problem as well as the body’s defense mechanisms. Due to its gentleness and effectiveness, many people include CST as a component in their personal wellness programs. They report having more energy, sleeping better and being sick less often.
A Typical Session
You rest *fully-clothed on a massage table while the therapist monitors your craniosacral rhythm with her hands. She conducts other gentle assessments and corrects the sources of pain and dysfunction using gentle manipulative techniques. This sets the stage for your body to most efficiently use its own power to heal. Because the body exerts considerable energy to adapt to its restrictions, most people find the sessions to be deeply relaxing.
Craniosacral Therapy is so gentle that it is suitable for children and elderly, as well as adults. As a whole body therapy, treatment may aid almost every condition. The work can be profoundly relaxing, exhilarating, deeply moving or involve a resolution of old material. Sometimes the benefits are not immediately noticeable but become obvious on returning to a familiar environment. CST is useful as both a primary treatment method and combines well with other traditional or complementary techniques.
Sessions are usually about 60 minutes ……………………………………..…………………………………. $100.00
* It is best to wear sports gear clothing, as the restriction of seams and belt buckles can be hard for the therapist to work with.
Dr. Edwards practices CranioSacral Therapy taught by The Upledger Institute and is an ongoing student of their many therapeutic teachings.