CranioSacral Therapy (CST) was pioneered and developed by osteopathic physician John E. Upledger following extensive scientific studies from 1975 to 1983 at Michigan State University, where he served as a clinical researcher and Professor of Biomechanics.
CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on method of evaluating and enhancing the functioning of a physiological body system called the craniosacral system - comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Using a soft touch generally no greater than 5 grams, or about the weight of a nickel, practitioners release restrictions in the craniosacral system, which has been shown to improve the functioning of the central nervous system, as well as many other systems of the body, such as digestive, musculoskeletal, respiratory, circulatory, and more.
CST has also been shown to help with the physical components related to such somatic conditions as Post Traumatic Stress, depression and anxiety. Trauma can be held in the body and sometimes hinders us from acting as our true self. It can hold us back from expressing ourselves fully. CST involves a SER component (Somato-emotional Release) if the body is ready, often this treatment can involve a release of emotions, in turn, allowing freedom from limiting behaviors and clarity about what trauma has been stuck in the body. This is a very gentle approach and can often get to issues that are difficult to resolve through talk therapy alone.
By facilitating the body's natural and innate healing processes, CST is increasingly used as a preventive health measure for its ability to bolster resistance to disease, and is effective for helping people with a wide range of healthcare challenges associated with pain and dysfunction, including:
