Craniosacral therapy

Man giving a woman cranial massage

Craniosacral therapy is an alternative healing method which appreciates the subtle rhythmic movements of the living tissues in our body. It is generally practiced by osteopaths, physiotherapists, massage therapists and naturopaths as craniosacral bodywork. It is a non-invasive and gentle cranial manipulation.


History

Craniosacral therapy was introduced by Dr. William Sutherland, when he realized that the cranial sutures of the skull are involved in rhythmic movements. He supposed that these movements are closely related to movements of the deeper tissues in the body.

Theory of movements through the inner force is common in many forms of medicine and is commonly practiced everywhere.

 

Principle

Dr. Sutherland proposed a theory that the cranial sutures exhibit some degree of motion and this movement is produced by the life force within the body. He named this force as breath of life.

Craniosacral therapy is based on the principle that this life force or breath of life produces certain subtle rhythms and these can be felt on the body. These beats can be compared to tides and are classified as craniosacral impulse, mid-tide and a long tide.

The basis of this therapy lies in the belief that the fluid in the brain and spine, which is called the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), is responsible for supplying the body tissues with the life force. If there is any disturbance in the fluid, it represents improper functioning of the body tissues. Thus by gently manipulating the cranial sutures and bones, a balance in the life force and that of the tissues can be restored.

 

Method

Craniosacral therapy involves gentle and careful manipulation of the skull bones and cranial sutures; hence it is performed by trained experts. The patient is comfortably made to lie on the back with relaxed breathing. The therapist places their hands on the patient’s head and tries to feel the rhythms within.

The therapist then works to release the tension and stress surrounding the area and helps the patient to relax. The therapist feels the movement of the cranial system and works very gently to manipulate the bones according to their science.

The number of sessions and the duration depends on the severity of the symptoms. It is possible that the therapist may not always be able to assuage the complaints but may be able to understand the condition and find the cause behind it.

 

Benefits

Craniosacral therapy is practiced to provide several benefits like stress management, relaxation, managing behavioral issues, coping with major illnesses, managing life better and to provide an improvement in general health.

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