CranioSacral Therapy (CST)
CranioSacral Therapy (CST) was developed by Osteopathic Physician, John E. Upledger, in the 1970’s. It addresses issues within the CranioSacral System (CSS) and related soft tissues. The CSS is comprised of cerebral spinal fluid, membranes surrounding the brain & spinal cord, and the bones attaching to that membranous system. Related soft tissues include fascia, which runs throughout the entire body as a 3D web, and other connective tissues. The burden of stress, trauma, and dysfunction on the body is lessened by addressing tensions within the CSS.
Guided by the Inner Physician, or the client’s inherent wisdom, the Therapist works more as a partner in healing rather than a “fixer” of problems. Moving at a pace that the client’s nervous system determines, the Therapist follows the patterns of dysfunction and strain within the body. As releases occur the Therapist maintains a supportive intention encouraging the body to adapt from a new, more relaxed and balanced vantage point.
Gentle Nature of CST
The extremely gentle nature of CST allows the body to self-correct without engaging physiological defensive mechanisms. This approach helps clients better integrate the new changes and experience longer lasting benefits. It also helps reduce the likelihood of an overwhelming healing crisis.
Benefits of CST
Because of the impact on the nervous system, which governs every other system in the body, the benefits of CST are far-reaching. Some of the conditions that can improve with treatment include:
- Headaches & Migraines
- Neck & Back pain
- Scoliosis
- TMJ Syndrome
- Anxiety
- Depression
- PTSD
- Central Nervous System Disorders
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- Optical issues
- Traumatic Brain Injury
- Concussion Syndrome
- Breastfeeding issues
- Colic & Acid Reflux
- Birth trauma
- Post-partum depression
More information can be found at www.upledger.com
Unwinding Acupuncture Meridians During CST (UMAC)
Unwinding Meridians: Applying Acupuncture Principles to CST (UMAC) is a growing branch of CranioSacral Therapy expounded upon by Ken Koles Ph.D, LAc, DSc, CST-D. It explores the connections between the CranioSacral System, organs, emotions, foods and other facets of Traditional Chinese Medicine’s Five Element Theory.
Harmonizing acupuncture meridians and points with needle-free, gentle touch during a CranioSacral session can profoundly enhance the benefits of CST. UMAC allows us to more specifically pinpoint dysfunctions within various energy systems. While following the patterns of dysfunction in the body during a CS treatment, the Therapist also feels into the energetic anatomy looking for deficiencies, excesses or blockages. Working in partnership with the Inner Physician to support a more harmonious state the Therapist helps facilitate balance by clearing emotions, transforming energies of trauma, and encouraging a more fluid communication between the physical and energetic structures.
Benefits of UMAC
Applying these principles and techniques can help improve organ and immune function, boost vitality and longevity, harmonize energetic anatomy, and balance emotions. Gently integrating UMAC techniques is an enhancement to any CranioSacral Session, but it can be especially helpful with the following:
- Long-standing or chronic issues
- Recovery from trauma/injury/surgery
- Hormonal imbalances
- Life changes
- Optical issues
- Tinnitus
- Anxiety
- PTSD
