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Craniosacral therapy -

Craniosacral therapy is a combination of theories and techniques developed by two doctors of osteopathy in the 1930s and 1970s.

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Craniosacral therapy -

The cranium refers to the bony structure that protects the brain i.e. the skull, while the sacrum is a triangular-shaped bone located in the lower back, between the two hips.

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The Central Nervous System -

The skull and the sacrum are connected via the spine. The spinal cord and brain make up the central nervous system (CNS).

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The Central Nervous System -

Connective tissues and cerebrospinal fluid work alongside the bones to protect the structures of the CNS, and help it to work properly.

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Craniosacral system -

When we talk about the craniosacral system it refers to the skull, cerebrospinal fluid, and the membranes of the brain and the spinal cord.

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Craniosacral system -

The activities of the craniosacral system are influenced by the musculoskeletal system, endocrine system, vascular system, and sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.

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Fascia (tissue) -

One theory put forward about why craniosacral therapy might be helpful is due to the action of the fascia (tissue), of the craniosacral system. 

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Fascia (tissue) -

It says that when fascia is restricted, the movement of cerebrospinal fluid is hindered. When it's difficult for the fluid to move, it results in pain caused by pressure on the nerves and the connective tissues becoming tighter.

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Sympathetic nervous system -

Light massage helps to calm the sympathetic nervous system, the body's fight or flight mechanism, as the fascia becomes more relaxed.  

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During a session -

During a session of craniosacral therapy, areas of the cerebrospinal system between the skull and the spine are lightly massaged using low pressure.

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During a session -

Where a therapist identifies an imbalance, they reposition the client to "release" the flow of fluid. Some people fall asleep, others enter a meditative state and feel relaxed or energized (sometimes both).

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Light adjustments -

By making light adjustments using a "subtle therapy" like craniosacral therapy, restrictions on the bone and membrane are helped to release.

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Light adjustments -

Manipulating the cranium and sacral bones allows the therapist to reach the deeper layers of membrane and fluid, using only the hands.

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Self-healing -

There's a belief underlying craniosacral therapy which suggests that the body is capable of healing itself, under the right conditions and circumstances.

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Self-healing -

In this way, craniosacral therapy is considered to be more than just a way to help reduce stress and tension in the body. 

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Body awareness -

Gaining better self-awareness of the body, the body's energy, and the senses is considered to be an integral part of maintaining health in craniosacral therapy.

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Body awareness -

Better body awareness means recognizing the signs and symptoms of something being wrong earlier on, so interventions can be made.

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Health interventions -

Health interventions in the early stages of stress and discomfort can assist with preventing conditions from getting worse, or can be used to identify any bigger underlying issue.

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Craniosacral rhythm -

Cerebrospinal fluid is produced in the center of the brain in hollow spaces called ventricles. The production and absorption of this colorless fluid by the three membranes of the brain and spinal cord cause a rhythmic expansion and contraction in the cerebrospinal system.

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Craniosacral rhythm -

This rhythmic motion is known as the Cranial Rhythm or Cranial Rhythmic Impulse. The expansion and contraction stages are known as flexion and extension.

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The "Breath of Life" -

Dr. William Sutherland, who pioneered cranial osteopathy in the '30s and '40s, referred to the craniosacral rhythm as the "Breath of Life."

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The "Breath of Life" -

He believed that all other rhythms and flows in the body, such as the rhythm of breathing and the blood flow, were connected to and influenced by the flow of craniosacral fluid.

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Regaining harmony -

When the Breath of Life becomes restricted, for whatever reason, the other rhythms and flows are put out of balance. Craniosacral therapy helps the body to regain harmony.

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Rhythmic flows -

The hands-on, rhythmic movements of craniosacral therapy are said to create small vibrations that help the different parts of the CNS, and the body in general, by encouraging better communication.

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Debate -

However, there is some debate about whether craniosacral therapy actually helps the fluid to circulate, or if this is an action that happens due to other body functions such as respiration (breathing).

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Providers -

A physio, osteopath, physical therapist, occupational therapist, or chiropractor can typically offer craniosacral therapy.

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Lack of clinical research -

Although craniosacral therapy has been around for decades, due to a lack of clinical research, it does not have a scientific basis.

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Who shouldn't do it -

While generally considered safe, those who've had blood clots, brain swelling or brain injuries, concussion, or a brain aneurysm are not advised to undergo craniosacral therapy.

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Speak to your doctor first -

As with any health concern, it's best to have a checkup with your doctor if you have an ailment or concern, as they can advise medical treatment. Craniosacral therapy might be a suitable complementary therapy for you.

Sources: (Healthline) (Medical News Today) (Cleveland Clinic) (VeryWell Health)

See also: Therapy animals: touching moments of animals helping humans heal

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