Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy is a holistic touch therapy that focuses on settling the nervous system to cultivate greater health and well-being. It gently unwinds the nervous system from patterns of compression, hypervigilance and inertia to states of ease and resources.
Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a gentle hands-on technique that uses a light touch to examine membranes and movement of the fluids in and around the central nervous system. Relieving tension in the central nervous system promotes a feeling of well-being by eliminating pain and boosting health and immunity. It is a gentle hands-on treatment that may provide relief from a variety of symptoms including headaches, neck pain and side effects of cancer treatment among many others.
CST uses a light touch to examine membranes and movement of fluids in and around the central nervous system. Relieving tension in the central nervous system promotes a feeling of well-being by eliminating pain and boosting health and immunity.
The focus of CST is a gentle placement of hands to assist release of the body’s connective tissue, or “fascia.” Fascia (Latin word for “band”) is a covering found throughout the body including organs, glands, nerves, muscles, blood vessels, brain and spinal cord. This covering forms a body-wide connective network. CST is based on the idea that the body is interrelated at all levels.
CST is thought to improve efficiency of biological processes through boosting inherent self-regulation, self-correction and self-healing. The therapy can be used successfully with children and adults.
A typical CST session lasts from 60-90 minutes, and takes place in a quiet, private setting. CST is performed with the client fully clothed and lying on a comfortable massage table. Using a light touch, the therapist evaluates or “listens to” the body for tension patterns and imbalances.
What people commonly seek craniosacral therapy for:
Stress and tension
Anxiety and emotional overwhelm
Headaches and migraines
Neck, jaw, and back discomfort
Fatigue and burnout
Sleep difficulties
Recovery from injuries or surgery
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction
General relaxation and well-being
What is supported by evidence?
There is some evidence that CST may help reduce pain, stress, and improve relaxation in certain people.
Scientific evidence is limited and mixed regarding its effectiveness for specific medical conditions.
CST is generally considered a complementary therapy rather than a primary treatment for disease.
What practitioners and clients often report
Some people experience:
Deep relaxation
A sense of emotional release
Improved body awareness
Reduced muscle tension
Better sleep
Feeling more grounded and balanced
