Craniosacral therapy is now extensively practised around the world and continues to develop in popularity for a wide range of people. It is a gentle but potent way of working with the body using light touch. People sometimes ask about the name “craniosacral therapy” and think it only refers to the head. In fact CST works with the whole person and changes may occur in body, mind and spirit during and after sessions.
When a practitioner places their hands lightly on you during a therapy session, they are using them to listen to you in much the same way that a counsellor might listen to your words. Your body responds to this sensitive touch by beginning to listen to itself. A feeling that you have been heard in the truest sense of the word is a common experience during and after a CST session.
Who is it for?
Because it is so gentle and non-invasive, CST is suitable for everyone from newly-born babies to the elderly. Women often come during pregnancy, and mothers and their babies for problems associated with difficult or traumatic births. Letting go of tension and fear held in the body enables both mother and baby to settle into calmness.
CST supports your body’s innate ability to balance, restore and heal itself, as well as helping to reduce stress and build your underlying energy. The practitioner senses tensions in the body and helps to release them in a supported and comfortable way. During or after a session you may feel calm and energised, with increased clarity of mind and a feeling of well-being.
For advice about whether craniosacral therapy is right for you, please speak to a CST practitioner.
During a session
During your first session your practitioner will take a written case history, listening with care to the reasons for your visit. This part of the session is important, both for gathering information and to establish a good understanding with your practitioner. The session typically lasts an hour, although it can vary. You remain clothed and will usually lie face up or on your side, or you may be seated. The practitioner makes light contact with your head, the base of your spine and other areas, encouraging your body to relax and begin to make the changes it needs. Because the body functions as a whole, your practitioner may focus on areas other than where your symptoms occur.
In the longer term
After a session there is occasionally a short period of adjustment as part of the healing process, when you may become more aware of symptoms. Sometimes people report relief after only one or two sessions. For long-standing problems further sessions may be needed. Some people find they benefit from regular treatment over an extended period and say that, as well as noticing improvement in their physical or emotional symptoms, they feel they have increased self-awareness and improved quality of life.
Craniosacral therapy is not intended as primary healthcare but to work alongside the service provided by your doctor.