April marks a special time for holistic health enthusiasts and practitioners alike as we celebrate Craniosacral Therapy Awareness Month. This month-long observance provides an opportunity to shed light on the transformative power of Craniosacral Therapy (CST) and its profound impact on our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
What is Craniosacral Therapy?
Craniosacral Therapy is a gentle, hands-on approach to healing that addresses the subtle rhythms and movements of the craniosacral system – the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Based on founding father Dr William Sutherland's work in the early 1900s and further developed by osteopathic physician Dr. John E. Upledger in the 1960s and 70s, CST is based on the principle that the body possesses its own innate ability to heal and self-regulate.
How Does Craniosacral Therapy Work?
During a CST session, the therapist uses light touch to detect and release restrictions or imbalances in the craniosacral and connective tissue (fascia) systems. By gently manipulating the bones of the skull, spine, pelvis, and soft tissues of the body, the therapist facilitates the body's natural ability to release tension and restore optimal functioning. This gentle approach promotes relaxation, reduces pain, balances dysfunction and enhances overall well-being.
The biggest achievement of Craniosacral Therapy is its ability to work with the body to regulate the central nervous system. We spend much of our lives in a high-stress state with our CNS highly aroused in 'fight and flight' or stuck in 'freeze'. Craniosacral Therapy quickly downregulates the CNS and moves it to a state of 'rest and digest'. In this state clients breathe more easily and deeply, their heart rate slows, food digestion improves, and a deep sense of relaxation allows the body the space and capacity to heal.
The Craniosacral System
The Benefits of Craniosacral Therapy
The benefits of Craniosacral Therapy extend far beyond the physical realm. In addition to alleviating pain and discomfort, CST can also help to:
1. Reduce stress and anxiety
2. Improve sleep quality
3. Enhance emotional balance and resilience
4. Boost immune function
5. Support the body's natural healing processes
6. Enhance cognitive function and mental clarity
Who Can Benefit from Craniosacral Therapy?
One of the remarkable aspects of Craniosacral Therapy is its versatility and suitability for people of all ages and backgrounds. From infants to the elderly, CST offers gentle and effective support for a wide range of conditions, including:
- Chronic pain
- Headaches and migraines
- TMJ dysfunction
- Fibromyalgia
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Birth trauma
- Autism spectrum disorders
- Learning disabilities
- And more
Celebrating Craniosacral Therapy Awareness Month
As we commemorate Craniosacral Therapy Awareness Month, let us take a moment to honour the profound impact that CST has had on countless lives around the world. Whether you're new to Craniosacral Therapy or a seasoned client, this month serves as a reminder of the healing potential that resides within each of us.
Join us in spreading awareness about Craniosacral Therapy and its ability to promote holistic healing and well-being. Whether through sharing personal experiences, attending workshops and events, or simply engaging in conversations with friends and family, let's come together to celebrate the power of CST and its role in transforming lives.
This April, let us embrace the journey of self-discovery and healing as we unlock the power of Craniosacral Therapy.
How to Book a Craniosacral Therapy Session
A Craniosacral Therapy session requires an hour of your time, and for you to be curious about differences in your body. This curiosity allows space for you to notice over the few days after your session, things that might be the same and different. Clients are encouraged to notice, not judge the outcome. Changes can be both profound and subtle.
If you are curious about how Craniosacral Therapy can support your life journey (and you're located near Rockhampton, Central Queensland), then booking a session is easy. Bookings can be made 24/7 at phoenixmandorla.com.au or call/text 0484 068 348.
If you are located outside this area, then head to the International Association of Healthcare Practitioners to search for a practitioner in your town or country.
References:
- Upledger Institute International. (n.d.). What is CranioSacral Therapy? Retrieved from https://www.upledger.com/what-we-do/cst-overview/
- Mayrovitz, H. N. (2006). Craniosacral Therapy: A Review of Physiological Mechanisms and Clinical Outcome. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 12(6), 489–494. https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2006.12.489
We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land and pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.