Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a type of bodywork that focuses on the gentle manipulation of the cranial bones, spinal column, and sacrum to alleviate stress and pain. There are several types and approaches within CST, each with its unique techniques and philosophies but at the core is the belief that the body is dynamic, continually in motion, and self correcting. At The Center, we host practitioners that practice Traditional/Upledger CST and Biodaynamic CST.
Upledger CranioSacral Therapy: Developed by Dr. John Upledger, this method emphasizes connecting with the rhythm of the craniosacral system, which includes the membranes and fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord and all of the nerves. Therapists use light touch to detect this rhythm, assess the body vectors, allow the treatment to flow from the client’s organic intelligence and seek to correct restrictions in this system.
Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy (BCST): This approach is centered on “energy anatomy” and focuses on the body’s inherent healing processes and the subtle motions of the body’s fluids and tissues. Therapists “listen” deeply to these movements through light touch – often focused on but not limited to the head, spine, and feet – and support the body’s natural tendency toward health and balance. The BCST therapist follows the body’s lead, creating a supportive environment for the body’s own healing processes to unfold. Clients often report that the BCST experience reminds them of Reiki energy healing.
CranioSacral therapy can decrease stress from chronic injuries as well as provide relief from migraine headaches, neck and back pain, TMJ (the inflammation of the joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull) and more. Performed on a massage table, the client is fully clothed and the touch is generally light and sometimes still. The treatment is focused on supporting the health of the whole being, especially the nervous system.
