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CranioSacral Therapy
works by helping the body's natural healing mechanisms dissipate the
negative effects of stress on the central nervous system. This is
accomplished through utilizing a physiological body system called the
craniosacral system, which maintains the environment in which the
central nervous system functions. It consists of the membranes and
cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal
cord, extending from the bones of the skull, face and mouth (which make
up the cranium) down to the tailbone area (or sacrum). The role of this
system in the development and performance of the brain and spinal cord
is so vital that an imbalance or dysfunction in it can cause sensory,
motor and/or neurological disabilities.
Like the pulse of the cardiovascular system, the craniosacral system
has a rhythm that can be felt throughout the body. Using a touch
generally no heavier than the weight of a nickel, skilled practitioners
can monitor this rhythm at key body points to pinpoint the source of an
obstruction or stress. Once a source has been determined, they can
assist the natural movement of the fluid and related soft tissue to
help the body self correct. This simple action is often all it takes to
remove a restriction.
Because of its influence on the functioning of the central nervous
system, CranioSacral Therapy can benefit the body in a number of
ways—from bolstering overall health and resistance to disease to
alleviating a wide range of specific medical conditions.
Among CST's largest patient groups are those suffering chronic symptoms
that haven't been aided by other approaches. In particular, CST is
beneficial to those with head, neck or back injuries resulting from an
accident—be it from a car, sports or work mishap or from a fall. The
extremely light touch involved in the application of CST makes it a
safe approach as well for children, infants and newborns with early
traumas, including birth trauma. They especially can benefit from the
timely identification and release of restrictions in the craniosacral
system, thereby preventing future difficulties such as learning
disabilities or hyperactivity.
Another area of principal effectiveness is with stress related
dysfunctions. Insomnia, fatigue, headaches, poor digestion, anxiety and
temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction are just a few examples.
CranioSacral Therapy works to reverse the debilitating effects of
stress by providing the conditions in which the nervous system can rest
and rejuvenate. In fact, it's this capacity to reduce stress that's
leading an increasing number of people to include CST as part of their
wellness programs.
Other conditions for which CranioSacral Therapy has shown to be
effective are various sensory disorders. Among these are eye motor
coordination problems, autism, dyslexia, loss of taste or smell,
tinnitus, vertigo and neuralgias such as sciatica and tic douloureux.
There are certain situations where application of CST would not be
recommended. These include conditions where a variation and/or slight
increase in intracranial pressure would cause instability. Acute
aneurysm, cerebral hemorrhage or other preexisting severe bleeding
disorders are examples of conditions that could be affected by small
intracranial pressure changes.
Response to CST varies from individual to individual and condition to
condition. Your response is uniquely your own and can't be compared to
anyone else's—even those cases that may appear to be similar to your
own.
CranioSacral Therapy and SomatoEmotional Release are the most profound
work I’ve experienced. SomatoEmotional Release, a component of CST
works to release the emotional energy. Sometimes during a trauma the
physical strain and stress is placed in the soft tissue and the
emotions get placed there as well. Using the body to effect emotional
release is exceptionally healing. This process is especially comforting
to those who have or who are presently working to overcome the
emotional and physical trauma of cancer.
CranioSacral Therapy primarily facilitates processes that enhance the
body's innate abilities for natural healing. The therapy focuses on
removing restrictive forces and obstacles related to the craniosacral
system. Enhancing the mobility of the craniosacral system improves the
circulation of both blood and CSF to the brain, spinal cord, pituitary
gland, pineal gland and the cranial nerve systems, among other things.
Improving fluid motion and exchange specifically enhances the functions
of the brain; spinal cord; autonomic control systems; visual, auditory,
olfactory and gustatory sensory systems; motor and motor coordination
systems; endocrine system; and the immune system. Less directly, it
seems to affect all other body systems; therefore, it is exceptionally
useful for most chronic conditions and as a preventive measure.
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