What is Craniosacral Therapy?
Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on healing method of examination and treatment that removes restrictions in the body’s tissues and engages the body’s self-regulatory and self-corrective mechanisms.
The craniosacral system includes the bones, nerves, fluids and connective tissues of the cranium and spinal area. The method of application includes the whole-person approach to healing and the treatment aims to improve function of the central nervous system by balancing the fluids, bones and membrane structures around the brain and spinal cord.
The central nervous system governs all of our physiological systems and functions and has an innate intelligence that knows how to stay in balance with itself and its environment. If the body cannot dissipate the forces of injury, trauma or accumulated stressors it will store them and compensate for them as best it can. This can cause restrictions to normal movement and can lead to pain and decreased function at the site of injury or elsewhere in the body. With CST the practitioner follows the patterns of restriction to their source assisting the body to release in each area thus restoring proper function. Furthermore, the practitioner’s deep and clear quality of presence can become an invaluable cue for the potential for change.
This therapy can assist the body to deeply relax and supports functions like sleep and digestion, allowing the body to move away from constant states of high stress. With over a century of discovery, practice and research craniosacral therapy has proven to be effective in treating a wide range of medical conditions for people of all ages and can be effective in acute and chronic situations.
“The quieter you become, the more you are able to hear.” ~ Rumi
Some conditions that CST can help with include:
* Headaches and Migraines, TMJ (Jaw), and Dental Problems
* Whiplash, Head or Spinal Injuries
* Unresolved Chronic Pain, Recent Surgery or Injury
* Tinnitus, Chronic Ear or Sinus Infections
* Pain, Stress and Nervous Tension
* Digestive Disorders, Reproductive and Hormone Imbalance
* Birth Trauma; the effects of which can be at the root of problems in adults
* Insomnia, Anxiety, ADD/ADHD
* Pregnancy, fertility, pre/post-natal care
* Post Concussion Syndrome
* Emotional based trauma
Benefits of Craniosacral Therapy:
* Increased mobility, flexibility, balance and ease of movement
* Profound relaxation and greater sense of well being
* Muscular/Skeletal alignment and improved posture
* Increased body awareness and clarity of mind
* Improved digestion and sleep
* Decreased frequency and occurrence of pain and headaches
What is a Craniosacral Therapy treatment like?
A CST session usually lasts an hour and is done wearing loose comfortable clothing while lying on your back on a massage table. This is a gentle hands-on therapy that is very relaxing and restorative. During the treatment you may feel subtle sensations throughout your body as tension is released. It has been observed that powerful shifts can occur when we take the time to deeply listen to the body and allow it to self-correct.
How many treatments will you need?
People often have one presenting problem and behind it we discover a list of contributing factors or a history of several injuries over a lifetime. One simple resent injury may take 1-2 treatments. More complex and longstanding problems may take longer to resolve. Your practitioner will discuss treatment options that are best for your individual case. Many people find CST to be a valuable part of a maintenance program to decrease effects of day to day stress and improve quality of sleep.
Is this therapy covered by my extended health plan?
Yes. Craniosacral therapy is within the scope of practice for registered massage therapists in BC and is therefore covered by extended health plans in the same way as a regular massage therapy appointment.
If you have questions that are not answered here, please call the clinic today and speak with one of receptionists.
