Craniosacral Therapy
Craniosacral therapy is a gentle, hands-on procedure for evaluating and enhancing the functioning of the craniosacral system, a physiological system surrounding the brain and spinal cord. By affecting the brain and spinal cord, the craniosacral system influences the entire body. As such, craniosacral therapy has the ability to address a wide range of disorders.
During craniosacral therapy, therapists use a light touch equivalent to a nickel’s weight, and feel the rhythmic motion of the cerebrospinal fluid within the craniosacral system. Therapists check the rate, amplitude, symmetry and quality of this wave-like motion. This assessment is usually undertaken at locations where the craniosacral membrane barrier attaches to bones such as the skull, sacrum and tailbone. Any restrictions or blockages are treated with light-touch adjustments.
A restriction in one part of the craniosacral system can affect the entire system, so treatment may involve working at a point distant from the overt symptom. Basically, by assisting the hydraulic forces in the craniosacral system and, in turn, improving central nervous system functioning, treatment facilitates the body’s innate, self-healing mechanisms.