Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy

The craniosacral system includes the bones, cerebral spinal fluid, tissue, and membranes that protect and nourish the central nervous system. Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy is deceptively gentle while inspiring profound physical and emotional shifts and change. It can also be used on both babies and the elderly because it is such a gentle but effective technique. Because the craniosacral system directly impacts the nerves connected to the spinal column, the functioning of the body’s organs, musculo-skeletal, nervous and immune systems can all be improved. Once there is more vital life force energy available and flowing within the body, we are able to hold a higher vision of ourselves.

The fundamental osteopathic principle is that given proper resources and support, bodies correct themselves with very little, if any, intervention. Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy believes that everyone’s body has innate wisdom and knows what is needed to heal. Rather than trying to “fix” a problem or situation, the biodynamic craniosacral practitioner facilitates, supports, and witnesses the body’s own knowing. Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy has evolved to include advances in neuroscience, pre-and-peri-natal psychology, trauma recovery, and human development.

Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy is a healing art that works with the energies that create and maintain health in the human system. While not a manipulative therapy, it has its roots in osteopathy and has evolved to include influences from human development, pre and perinatal psychology, trauma resolution, and recent advances in neuroscience. Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy supports nervous system regulation and allows the resolution of conditions resulting from stress and trauma. Practitioners use an educated, gentle, non-invasive touch  to engage with the expressions of health in the system.

Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy encourages the body to rebalance and heal itself. The practitioner first discusses both your concerns and the areas where you are seeking assistance, including physical, emotional and mental. Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy is usually performed with the client fully clothed on a massage table. The practitioner will lightly touch and hold different points on the body, including your head, face, shoulders, sacrum and feet. They may include other areas as appropriate to your personal needs, as the Life Force can be accessed from anywhere. People find it deeply relaxing, and often drift into sleep.

The benefits of Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy are infinite, because the body’s ability to heal itself is infinite.

Can it be used to treat babies and children?

Yes. It is particularly helpful for babies with colic, feeding difficulties, spinal curvature, constant crying, and sleeping issues. Childbirth can cause compression and imbalances in the craniosacral system.

Are there any conditions that should be avoided?

There are no contra-indications for the use of Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy.

How often do I need a session?

This is individual and unique to what issues you are working on and how quickly your body responds. Your practitioner is your best resource, as they know you and your needs.

All craniosacral therapies trace their roots back to osteopath William Garner Sutherland. He was the first to experience and teach how intention, and the mysterious Breath of Life, could heal.

In the 1970’s John Upledger began to teach a treatment framework he called Craniosacral Therapy. His work is still taught worldwide through the Upledger Institute. In the late 70’s, Franklyn Sills and his students began studying the work of another osteopath, Dr. Randolph Stone., the founder of Polarity Therapy. In 1982, Sills moved to England, founded the Devon Institute, and, in 1986, Claire Dolby, DO, encouraged him to begin teaching outside the osteopathic profession. From there his work grew and spread around the world.

To learn more about craniosacral therapy we recommend the following:
The Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy Association of North America
These links were used as sources of information in writing this page: