Craniosacral (fascial) therapy is a gentle, noninvasive form of bodywork which focuses on the fascia within the body. The intention is to reestablish proper alignment of the bones, encouraging muscles and connective tissue to return to their natural resting length.
Craniosacral therapy can take place standing, sitting or on a massage table with the client fully clothed. Craniosacral therapy can also be infused into a massage for incredibly therapeutic results.
What is Fascia?
The cranium and spine, known as the craniosacral system, protect and house the brain and neural system. Fascia is connective tissue that surrounds every muscle, nerve
As with any other type of connective tissue, there can be pulls and strains in your fascia dating back to the day you were born. The birth process, falls as a child and adult, dental procedures, car accidents and other traumas can have a lasting effect on your body. Each life experience plays a role in the health of your fascia.
Benefits of Craniosacral Therapy
During a craniosacral therapy session, we follow where the fascia in your body wants to go (i.e. in the direction of ease). The gentle approach of craniosacral therapy helps to decrease fascial strains, bringing freedom and movement to your muscles, organs, brain and spinal cord.
Craniosacral therapy is proven to help:
- Decrease stress from chronic injuries
- Relieve tension headaches
- Reduce neck and back pain
- Reduce symptoms of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)
- Decrease fascial strains before and after pregnancy
- Improve quality of sleep
Craniosacral therapy is appropriate at every age.
For the newborn or infant, craniosacral therapy involves assessing the state of their craniosacral rhythm, along with their fascial, lymphatic and other bodily systems. With a heart-centered awareness, we tune in to the body’s subtle cues about where and how much it is ready to release, and we provide nurturing support there. Craniosacral therapy is very gentle and either done with the baby on the massage table or in the parent’s arms.
For toddlers and school-age children, the techniques above apply and we will also give a simple explanation of the process as needed. We have many toys for playtime to break the ice and build trust. With craniosacral therapy, it is important to always honor the child’s comfort level. Children are so receptive, and the benefits of craniosacral therapy are immeasurable.
As adults, we have accrued the time and experience to produce many layers of fascial strains. Our cells have memory and it is at this cellular level that our body remembers everything that has ever happened to it. Craniosacral therapy is quite effective in releasing these strains. After your first craniosacral therapy session, we will have a better idea as to how many sessions it may take to address issues and support individual needs.
Unwind with Craniosacral Therapy
To schedule an appointment for craniosacral therapy, please contact us. Questions and thoughts are welcome. Craniosacral therapy sessions are by appointment only, and we will work together to set up a time that is best for you.
Please note: The phone at In Balance is placed on silent. This ensures that clients currently receiving treatment will not be disturbed, and may fully enjoy the time they have set aside for themselves. Please leave us a message, and we will return your call as soon as possible.
