Craniosacral Therapy
 

Although the touch used in this type of treatment can feel very subtle, the effect on the nervous system and physiological function of the body can be profound. As the therapist engages the craniosacral system by using gentle pressure on certain areas the body and its connective tissues guides the treatment approach. 

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There are three discernable forces in the body. The first two are your breath and heartbeat - both the more obvious rhythms of our bodies. The third is the cranial wave or craniosacral rhythm. The cranial wave ranges from 8-14 cycles per minute. The rhythm can speed up or slow down in response to forces placed on the body. For example by a compressive head injury, postural stress, injury, muscle/fascial imbalance, scar tissue, or trauma.

 

The rhythm is created by the bioelectric field of energy within the body which stimulates the movement of nourishing fluid that surrounds the structures of the central nervous system, influences the subtle movements of our bones, and triggers contraction of the involuntary muscles of our internal organs and blood vessels. Some call the cranial wave the rhythm of chi, prana, or the rhythm of the spirit. 

 

Craniosacral therapy is by nature relational work, which is what can make it so powerful. Although the person often feels very relaxed and passive when receiving this type of treatment, their nervous system is given space to allow for processing and integration of important somatic information; a silent yet active process. As the therapist shines a "flashlight" on restrictions or patterns in the person's body, the therapist and individual work together to release restrictions, improve function, and find more balance in their body.

 

Through interconnection the physical body can hold and express much of our psychological and emotional life, often a lot more than what our conscious minds are aware of.

 

I believe that a great deal of healing takes place as we learn to notice the subtle (or not so subtle at times) cues of our bodies.

 

Given the chance there is potential for our bodies messages to show up with this type of work, messages that we may not see in our everyday busy lives. With the right kind of attention, intention, and therapeutic action, craniosacral therapy can be a deeply healing experience.

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Information adapted from Hugh Milne's "The Heart of Listening" , from my teacher, Julie Gerhardt, and from my own experience.