A Gentle Approach to Healing
Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on form of bodywork that originated from osteopathy. It works with the craniosacral system — the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord.
This system has its own subtle rhythm, distinct from your heartbeat or breathing. A trained craniosacral therapist can feel this rhythm throughout the body and use it as a guide to identify areas of restriction, tension, or imbalance.
How Does It Work?
Using very light touch — roughly the weight of a five-pence coin — a craniosacral therapist places their hands on different areas of the body and listens to the subtle movements of the craniosacral system.
When restrictions are found, the therapist uses gentle techniques to encourage the body to release them. This isn't about forcing change — it's about creating the conditions for the body to self-correct.
The body has a remarkable capacity for healing. Craniosacral therapy works with that capacity, not against it.
What Can It Help With?
Craniosacral therapy has been found helpful for a wide range of conditions, including:
- Chronic pain — back pain, neck pain, headaches, and migraines
- Stress and anxiety — by calming the nervous system and promoting deep relaxation
- Nervous system dysregulation — for those stuck in fight, flight, or freeze patterns
- Breathing difficulties — addressing the physical restrictions that contribute to dysfunctional breathing
- Autoimmune conditions — supporting the body's immune function through stress reduction
- Post-surgical recovery — gentle enough to support healing after operations
- Emotional wellbeing — the body holds emotional patterns, and CST can help release them
What Happens in a Session?
A typical session lasts about 50 minutes to an hour. You remain fully clothed and lie on a comfortable treatment table.
I'll begin by placing my hands gently on different areas of your body — often starting at your feet or head. Most people experience a deep sense of relaxation during treatment. You may feel gentle sensations of warmth, tingling, or softening.
Many people are surprised by how much they feel during a session, despite the touch being so light. Some people fall asleep, which is perfectly welcome — your body does important healing work in that state.
Is It Right for You?
Craniosacral therapy is suitable for people of all ages, from newborns to the elderly. Its gentle nature makes it appropriate for those who might find other forms of bodywork too intense.
If you're curious about whether CST could help you, I'm always happy to have a conversation before booking. Feel free to get in touch.