Apr 16 2007
Craniosacral Therapy
Craniosacral therapy is a subtle but profound technique that pays special attention to the cranium, spine, and sacrum, all of which are linked by a continuous membrane that houses the brain and central nervous system. Within this membrane is cerebral spinal fluid. William Sutherland, D.O. (1873-1954) was the person who discovered and described how the cranial bones move and that the production and distribution of cerebral spinal fluid created a fluid driven system at our very core in our central nervous system. This fluid pump causes the various bones in the head, as well as other structures in the body, to move in a flexion/extension pattern with a frequency of 8-12 times per minute. Dr. Sutherland considered this fluid to be “the Breath of Life”, and thought that it was a very core expression of health in our bodies. He felt our bodies were constantly trying to express health, but since the human body is also “a map of experience”, some of those experiences may create blocks that prevent us from expressing our fullest health.
Experiences such as car accidents, falls, birth trauma, sexual abuse and others can have a profound effect on the physical bodies and how one “moves through life”. Cranial work is a gently, subtle and empowering way to assist people toward greater health. A very light touch is used as the practitioner palpates the movement of the bodys structures. Cranial work requires an in depth knowledge of anatomy and physiology. This allows the practitioner to work not only with the cranial bones, but also with organs, membranes and the central nervous system. A well skilled practitioner is able to listen to the clients body and “hear” the expression of their system in the moment. A dialogue between the practitioner and the client begins to unfold. By listening clearly and intelligently, the practitioner can assist the clients body in finding greater health and balance. This can be expressed dramatically such as chronic pain leaving forever or greater range of motion. The results can also be more subtle, such as feeling a lightness of being or more resources within oneself to live life more fully. Each person’s experience with craniosacral will be different, just as each person’s “map of experience” is different.
Craniosacral offers individuals an opportunity to realize the enormous amount of information the body offers and what a profound resource it can be. As one becomes more deeply connected to their life experiences, the greater the chance of expressing their fullest health.