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CranioSacral Therapy is a gentle, hands-on method of evaluating and enhancing the function of the craniosacral system - the physiological body system comprised of the membranes and cerebro-spinal fluid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord. CST enhances the body’s natural healing processes to improve the operation of the central nervous system, dissipate the negative effects of stress, enhance health and strengthen resistance to disease. The method generally requires only five grams of pressure - equivalent to the weight of a nickel - to test for restrictions in the various parts of the craniosacral system.
Among the medical conditions for which CST has been shown effective are: Migraine headaches, chronic neck and back pain, motor-coordination impairments, central nervous system disorders, TMJ, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, post-traumatic stress disorder, neurovascular and immune disorders, traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries, emotional difficulties, scoliosis, infantile disorders, autism, learning disabilities, post-surgical dysfunction tissue disorders, and stress/tension related problems.
A typical session lasts 1 hour. The client is dressed and lies on their back. The therapist first conducts an evaluation by placing their hands at certain -listening stations” on the body. After this the therapist begins to apply about a nickel worth of pressure to key area of the body involving the sacrum, spine and head. Some hand placements are on the abdomen and sacrum. As the session goes on the client finds himself or herself becoming more relaxed and coming to a state of peace. Some clients can feel a great deal going on and others can hardly perceive being touched. Emotional release can sometimes occur with this technique.
The CST therapist essentially helps the body release restrictions - which it has been unable to overcome on its own - that inhibit the bodies normal, self-correcting tendencies. As long as the therapist is heeding the cues from the client’s body it is a very safe and effective method. Contraindications are aneurysm, intracranial hemorrhage, and any other conditions where altering intracranial fluid is not recommended.
While the focus of CST is to uncover the source of the problem, symptom relief also is achieved. The length of time and number of sessions needed is extremely variable and depends, among other factors, on the complex layers of injury and trauma that mask the original cause of the problem as well as the bodies defense mechanisms. Many people include CST as a part of their personal wellness program. They report having more energy, sleeping better and being sick less often.
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