about
Craniosacral Therapy is a light-touch, whole body therapy that works with the body's Craniosacral system to support and nourish the central nervous system to improve overall health and well-being. The Craniosacral system consists of the membranes in the skull and covering the spinal column that nourish and protect the brain and spinal cord. This system extends to cover nerves throughout the body and is continuous with fascia throughout the body. When there is tension in the craniosacral system it can create feelings of tension throughout the body and affect the functioning of organs and muscles. Dis-ease of the body can set in when it is unable to adapt to stressors. This can manifest itself as back pain, headaches, trouble sleeping, recurring tensions in the body, digestive issues and more. Craniosacral Therapy improves the circulation of fluids and balance of pressures in the body, which helps to alleviate aches and pains, improve coping mechanisms to better manage stress, improves the body's ability to adapt, and can produce profound positive change in the body.
What to expect
The Craniosacral Therapist will go over some brief history questions with you to better understand what your goals of treatment are, answer any questions you may have, and explain what they will be doing and where they will place their hands on your body. You will be asked to lay down on the massage table face up and when you are comfortable the therapist will begin. Sensations Craniosacral Therapy is a light touch therapy, so you may not feel much. Some clients feel warmth in the area that the therapist is working, relaxation of muscles and other tissues, and general relaxation. During the cranial portions of the treatment it is common to feel as if parts of your skull are floating and for your body temperature to rise or drop. It is common to feel drowsy or even fall asleep. Some things to be aware of Some clients may feel emotional throughout the treatment. In the event this happens, please feel the emotion as needed, while understanding the therapist is there to hold space for you. There is no expectation to share any details of the emotional experience with your therapist. Craniosacral therapy also involves assessment and treatment of facial bones. This can include intraoral work. The therapist will discuss this with you in advance if intraoral work is indicated for you.
After treatment
Most clients leave the treatment feeling very relaxed. It is best that you do not partake in high intensity exercise after your appointment, rather scheduling it before the appointment or the next day. This allows your body some time to integrate the changes that have occured. Clients can experience immediate decrease in tensions in the body, however generally you may only notice changes a few days to a few weeks after as your body integrates and recalibrates to the changes. We recommend staying hydrated, gently moving your body after your appointment, and prioritizing sleep after your appointment. The therapist will also send tips and strategies with you to help the changes last longer in the body and will estimate a timeframe for a follow up appointment as necessary for your treatment goals.