CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is a very gentle, hands-on manipulation that allows the therapist to access the core nervous system in an unobtrusive manner. Inside the lining of the head is a membrane system, called the dural membrane system (also called the CranioSacral system), which extends downward into the lining of the spinal cord and connects to the sacrum. Hence, the name “cranial” for cranium and “sacral” for sacrum. Inside the lining of this membrane system, flows the cerebral spinal fluid. The motion of this fluid can be felt anywhere on the body.

The CranioSacral therapist accesses this motion through the bones of the cranium, the upper neck, sacrum and tailbone. The therapist is able to discern faults and disturbances in the rhythm and apply gentle holds and techniques to return the faulted areas back into its optimal movement pattern. In the most general sense, CST works to restore balance throughout the body by directly accessing the central nervous system. CST commonly creates an environment that allows stress, emotions or repressed memories to surface. The therapist provides a comfortable and safe space for whatever response the individual may experience. This treatment brings clients into a new level of awareness as well as enhanced mental and emotional health.

During a CST session, the client is completely dressed and ideally, wearing loose, comfortable clothing. The treatment is not like massage, instead it involves a gentle cradling of the head, neck and sacrum.

Because the CranioSacral system is intimately related to, influences, and is influenced by:

• The nervous system
• The musculoskeletal system
• The vascular system
• The lymphatic system
• The endocrine system
• The respiratory system

A CranioSacral Therapy treatment can affect a profound shift on a physical AND emotional level. And, there’s no better time to give it a try because we will be offering it here on Mondays with Kris Wood, CST Practitioner.