Craniosacral Therapy, or CST as it is generally called, has its roots back in the nineteenth century. Originating in Andrew Taylor Still’s system of osteopathic medicine, it owes much to subsequent pioneers of technique, such as William G. Sutherland who extended Stills system into cranial osteopathy. This was refined and codified by Harold Magoun in the 1950’s and taught by him to Dr. John E. Upledger in the late 60’s.

John E Upledger took on and developed these techniques into what he called ‘CranioSacral Therapy’, a powerful yet simplified system of treatment capable of being learned by anyone of good intent wishing to study the system. The unique feature is that it does not require extensive medical training to be effective. Nonetheless, it embodies and develops the essential concepts of Still and Sutherland. It has evolved in Upledger’s lifetime to become an holistic therapy aimed at assisting the client to employ their own body’s healing capacities and which trusts that all bodies have an inherent intelligence keeping us in equilibrium.  (Taken from Australian Craniosacral Association)

 

DR. WILLIAM GARNER SUTHERLAND. (1873-1954)

"Within that cerebrospinal fluid there is an invisible element that I refer to as the 'Breath of Life.' I want you to visualize this Breath of Life as a fluid within the fluid, something that does not mix, something that has potency as the thing that makes it move. Is it really necessary to know what makes the fluid move? Visualize a potency, an intelligent potency, that is more intelligent than your own human mentality."

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My journey with Craniosacral therapy occurred due to suffering from debilitating migraines and headaches. I had tried many other healing therapies and did not want to take medications long term to manage the issue so I had my first Cranial treatment with my yoga teacher at the time and it was life changing for me.  My migraines went from weekly to monthly, then to 6 monthly, to just now and again. It was amazing and I was thrilled with the results. Thus began my study within the Cranial field, although at first I studied Equine Craniosacral Therapy through the Upledger Institute in 2005, before going on to study Human Craniosacral Therapy in  2007.

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This is a non-invasive therapy and can be deeply relaxing. Hands are placed on the body (through clothes) and the cranial rhythm is followed and listened too through what are known as 'listening stations'. These stations enable the therapist to pick out any irregularity in the flow of the rhythm and to specifically locate the areas in need of attention.  Many people feel a deeply relaxing and freeing sensation through their entire body as well as release of tension throughout the temporal mandibular joint (jaw), occiput, and face/head/body in general. 

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* This therapy can be stand alone treatment or incorporated within Reiki or counselling.  * 

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