cranio sacral therapy
WHAT IS IT?
CST is a very gentle, hands-on therapy that asserts that a lighter touch allows the body to make the changes it needs for long lasting results. CST aims to correct imbalances in the body particularly the skull, vertebral column, sacrum, meninges surrounding the spinal cord and cerebrospinal fluid housed around the spinal cord and brain.
The Craniosacral system refers to the cranium or skull, the sacrum (tail bone area) and all the structures in between involved in the movement of a fluid called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)between the two. Craniosacral therapy (CST) aims to identify and remove restrictions in this system to ensure free flow of this cerebrospinal fluid, thus reduce stress, boost general well-being, increase energy, improve quality of sleep and enhance the functioning of all the body's organs via the nervous system.
Light touch at several specific locations of the body is used to evaluate the ease and motion of the fluid, as it creates a rhythm of flexion and extension throughout the craniosacral system. Where a restriction is felt, light touch is applied to very gently mobilize and release this using specialised techniques.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
As CranioSacral Therapy works directly on the central nervous system & musculoskeletal system the benefits are many.
TREATMENT
You will be welcomed to the centre, given a seat and then complete the relevant client information sheet. Violet will take you through to the consult room where together you will discuss your need for the therapy, what has brought you in for CST and your unique health requirements. Violet will then do a structural examination, noting any imbalances, particularly in the skull and teeth.
You will be invited to lie down fully clothed, face up on a comfortable massage table. Violet will then place her hands on specific areas to “listen” with her hands, feeling the motion at the point and the intensity or restriction of the motion. Following identification of areas that are jammed or restricted, very gently pressure is applied to guide the release of the restriction. People often drift off as the therapy is applied.
CST is incredibly gentle, safe and relaxing. As the therapy is applied to your body, you may only be aware of contact, or very minimal pressure. Occasionally people report a “body memory” where the initial force that created the restriction ie; car accident or a fall, may be remembered. This typically passes and leaves you feeling lighter. Sessions typically last for 60 to 90 minutes and may be incorporated with other types of body work (massage) depending on your needs.
WHO DO I SEE?
Violet Wasson is the Vital Health Care Centre's Cranio Sacral Therapist.