Craniosacral Therapy

WHAT IS CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY? The history of Craniosacral therapy begins in 1900, when osteopath Dr. William G. Sutherland formulated the theory that the bones of the skull were constructed in a way that allowed for their own movement. For 20 years he studied this concept and developed an examination and care system, known as cranial osteopathy. In 1970, another American doctor, Dr. John E. Upledger, observed a rhythmic movement of the Craniosacral system during surgery. At first, he could not explain this movement; only cranial osteopathy offered an explanation. The two poles, the skull and the sacrum bone, form a unit with the brain and the spinal cord membranes where the cerebrospinal fluid pulses rhythmically. This rhythm extends throughout the body and influences its development and functionality. Changes in this system provide the necessary indications for therapeutic treatment to the anatomical and energetic structures involved. Fascinated by the successes of osteopathy treatment techniques, Dr. Upledger began to create a therapeutic concept by including cranial osteopathy techniques in his daily work as an osteopathic physician. His relentless work of scientific research and practice led him in the following years to further develop osteopathic techniques that eventually led to the birth of Craniosacral Therapy. The therapy is a gentle manual method for assessing and treating the Craniosacral system. This system is composed of the meningeal membranes, the bony structures in which they insert, the cerebrospinal fluid that protects and nourishes the brain and spinal cord. It extends from the skull and facial bones along the vertebrae to the sacrum and coccyx. Since this system of fundamental importance can influence the development and functioning of the brain and spinal cord, an imbalance or restriction can cause a whole range of dysfunctions or damage to the sensory, motor, or neurological system. Craniosacral therapy activates the body's natural self-correction forces in the most appropriate way. This very gentle natural therapy supports the hydraulic forces of the Craniosacral system for the dissipation of tensions and restrictions. Through this, the space surrounding the central nervous system is freed, resulting in an improvement in its functioning and in all the areas it controls. The effects of stress can be dissolved. It also strengthens the immune system. Due to the positive influence that the therapy has on multiple body systems, it is practiced in many clinical and therapeutic fields. HOW IS CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY PRACTICED? Therapists use a gentle movement, usually a light pressure, to intercept any blocks in the connective tissue and in the Craniosacral system. This is done by monitoring the flow rhythm of the cerebrospinal fluid. The approach is respectful and attentive, non-invasive or manipulative. Therapists pay the utmost attention and care to the client's personality and act without any prejudice. In this way, the process of self-regulation and healing of tension points is set in motion. As this happens, physical or emotional reactions may emerge, which the therapist verbally accompanies and supports. A comprehensive initial conversation will create the opportunity for a first approach with the people involved, allowing for an exchange of information and impressions. A therapy session typically lasts one hour. For children and the elderly, the duration may be shorter. The therapy can be accompanied verbally or in silence. The