Craniosacral therapy

What is craniosacral therapy?

Craniosacral therapy is a form of body therapy that focuses on relieving tension and imbalances in the body. The therapist does this by gently touching and manipulating the skull (cranium), spine, and sacrum (the large, triangular bone at the base of the spine).

The therapy is based on the theory that the body’s craniosacral system has its own rhythmic pulse. This pulse can be affected by physical and emotional stress. The system includes the brain, spinal cord, cerebrospinal fluid and the membranes surrounding these structures.

By gently manipulating and adjusting these areas, the therapist can restore the flow of cerebrospinal fluid. This in turn should reduce tension and promote the body’s natural healing processes.

What set our therapist apart was her genuine empathy and personal insight. Not only did she possess a deep understanding of neurodiversity, but she also shared personal experiences that resonated with us, creating an instant connection and fostering a sense of trust!

Benedetta Osarenk

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The therapy is often used to treat multiple conditions. It is based on the principle that the body has an inherent ability to heal itself. Some blockages or imbalances in the craniosacral system can hinder this natural process. Craniosacral therapy is known for its gentleness and is considered safe for people of all ages, including infants and the elderly.

What can craniosacral therapy help with?

Craniosacral therapy can relieve a variety of physical and emotional conditions such as headaches, migraines, neck and back pain. It can also reduce stress and tension. Craniosacral therapists also use the therapy for symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome and emotional problems. The therapy can have positive effects on neurological conditions, respiratory and digestive disorders. It promotes deep relaxation, which can enhance the body’s natural healing processes.

Although many people report positive experiences with the therapy, it should be seen as a complement to traditional medical treatment. Always consult a doctor or qualified health professional before starting treatment. Results can vary from person to person and there may be other methods that give better results for different conditions.

What is the evidence for craniosacral therapy?

The evidence for craniosacral therapy is controversial in the medical community, with some research pointing to potential benefits such as stress reduction and pain relief, but critics emphasise the lack of a strong scientific basis and methodological limitations of the studies. Research has also shown that there are no effects based on the basic theory of changing the pressure or circulation of the spinal fluid.

Anecdotal evidence from individuals who have experienced positive effects contributes to the popularity of the therapy, although critics argue that these effects may be due to placebo or relaxation rather than specific therapeutic effects of the treatment. One should therefore primarily focus on relaxation as a result of touch if interested in this method, as this may be the main effect. Patients considering craniosacral therapy should see it as a complement to conventional medical treatment and consult with a qualified health professional. There may be many other methods where the evidence is stronger for different conditions.

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How does a treatment with craniosacral therapy work?

A craniosacral therapy treatment is a gentle process that the therapist usually performs with the client fully clothed and lying on a treatment bench. Here is an overview of a typical session:

1. Initial conversation: Therapy often begins with a conversation in which the therapist asks about the client’s health condition, medical history, and specific problems or goals of treatment. This helps the therapist understand the client’s needs and adapt the session accordingly.
2. Assessment: The therapist often begins with a light touch to feel the body’s craniosacral rhythm, a subtle pulse said to be linked to the flow of cerebrospinal fluid. Through this initial assessment, the therapist identifies areas of tension or imbalance.
3. Treatment: Using gentle, light pressure hand techniques, the therapist works on the skull, spine and sacrum to release blockages and promote balance in the craniosacral system. The therapist may also use techniques to release tension in other parts of the body that are affected by or affect the craniosacral system.
4. Relaxation: During the session, the client is encouraged to relax and breathe deeply, which can enhance the effects of the therapy. Many clients report a sense of deep relaxation and well-being during and after treatment.
5. Closure and follow-up: After treatment, the therapist and client discuss the experience, any changes or sensations noted by the client, and plan for follow-up sessions if necessary.

A session usually lasts between 45 minutes and one hour. The number of sessions needed varies depending on the individual’s specific situation and goals. Some people experience improvement after just one session, while others may need multiple treatments to achieve the desired results. The therapy is known for its gentle approach and is considered safe for people of all ages, including infants and the elderly.