Are you tired of dealing with chronic pain and discomfort? Have conventional treatments failed to provide relief? It’s time to consider craniosacral therapy, a gentle yet powerful approach that can help restore balance and harmony in your body. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the many benefits of craniosacral therapy, from reducing stress and anxiety to improving sleep and boosting immunity. Whether you’re new to this healing modality or looking for more information, this post has everything you need to know about the transformative power of craniosacral therapy.
What is Craniosacral Therapy?
Craniosacral therapy is an extremely gentle form of bodywork that releases tension deep in the body to relieve pain and improve whole-body health. The therapist uses light touch to support the cranial bones and soft tissues of the head, neck, and spine. The craniosacral system consists of the bones, nerves, fluids, and connective tissues of the head, neck, and spine that house the nervous system. It is the membranes and fluids that surround and protect the brain, spinal cord and bones, that we work with, and treat to allow them to flow optimally.
Craniosacral therapy can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, some of the most commonly treated concerns are TMJ disorders, chronic pain, headaches, migraines, stress-related disorders, and even emotional concerns and stored trauma.
Benefits of Craniosacral Therapy
Craniosacral Therapy has many benefits. As the therapy is an extremely gentle and relaxing process, most patients report a deep sense of relaxation and reduction in physical tension in their body immediately following a session. The most commonly experienced benefits are:
- Relaxation & Stress Reduction
- Pain Relief and Reduction in Tension/Tightness
- Boosted Circulation
- Deeper Sleep
- Clearer Mind
- Less Anxious
What can Craniosacral Therapy Treat?
Craniosacral therapy is a gentle, non-invasive form of bodywork that uses light touch to manipulate the craniosacral system. As we work with this system, it can release restrictions in the central nervous system, which can alleviate a wide variety of conditions including:
- Conditions affecting the head, face and skull-Migraines and headaches. TMJ, bruxism (teeth grinding), visual problems, dizziness, vertigo, tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Chronic pain – Neck pain, shoulder pain, back pain, joint pain, arthritis, fibromyalgia
- Stress and tension
Craniosacral Therapy also has the ability to work with emotional stress in the body too. As we work with the nervous system, we work with the fight/flight response in the body, as well as stored trauma and emotional tension in the body. This means that we can also help to support the release of:
- Anxiety and Depression
- Emotional & Physical Trauma and PTSD
- ADD/ADHD
- Nervous System Overstimulation
What to Expect in a Session?
Craniosacral therapy is a gentle, non-invasive form of bodywork that can be incredibly relaxing and therapeutic.
When you arrive for your appointment, the practitioner will ask you about any health concerns you may have. Be as open and honest as possible; this information will help them tailor the session to your needs. You’ll then lie down on a massage table, fully clothed. The practitioner will begin by lightly placing their hands on your head, neck, and back.
If, at any point during the session, you feel uncomfortable or need to take a break, let the practitioner know. Craniosacral therapy is meant to be relaxing and healing; it shouldn’t be painful in any way.
After your session is over, drink plenty of water and take some time to yourself to relax. You may feel more emotionally vulnerable than usual; this is normal and part of the process. Give yourself time to integrate the experience and allow the body to release whatever has been physically stored in the body.
Common Questions about Craniosacral Therapy
If you’re considering trying craniosacral therapy, you may have some questions about what to expect. Here are answers to some common questions about this therapy:
What does craniosacral therapy feel like?
During a craniosacral therapy session, you will remain fully clothed as the therapist applies light pressure to your head, neck, and back. Most people report feeling a sense of deep relaxation during and after a session.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions needed depends on each individual’s situation. For example, some people feel relief after just one session, while others may need several sessions to achieve desired results. Your therapist will work with you to determine how many sessions would benefit you. A general rule of thumb is to do 3 sessions initially spaced 2 weeks apart for best results.
Is craniosacral therapy safe?
Yes, craniosacral therapy is considered to be very safe, it is even safe to be done while pregnant, and can be done on children, even babies can benefit!
