Injuries, traumatic events, muscle strain, and everyday stress can cause irregularities in the craniosacral rhythm, which in turn blocks the free-flow of cerebrospinal fluid in and out of the brain’s dura mater membrane. Such restrictions greatly inhibit the body’s ability for self-healing and may result in physical aches and pains, acute and chronic disease, and emotional or psychological disturbances.

The intrinsic movements of the skull bones enable the therapist to manipulate the rhythmic, hydraulic force inherent in the cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord – the craniosacral rhythm. The quality of the flow of cerebral spinal fluid is an indicator for the health of your central nervous system. With CST, the bones of the skull and the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord are worked with to ensure that there are no restrictions within the system. Palpation of this hydraulic motion, soft tissue release work, and gentle manipulation of the cranium, spine, and sacrum enable Cranial Sacral Therapists to open restrictions to stimulate the self-healing process.

Restrictions anywhere in this area can adversely affect brain function, the cranial nerves (which operate your senses), or the spinal nerves (which oversee the organs and other body systems) giving rise to minor or major symptoms and dysfunction in the body and in emotional and mental health.