Craniosacral massage is a gentle, hands-on method of evaluating and enhancing the function of the craniosacral system.
It is a form of healing therapy, we look at the benefits of craniosacral massage and examine the benefits of it in more detail.
What is the Craniosacral System?
The Craniosacral system is a physiological system like the cardiovascular and respiratory systems and provides the physical environment in which the brain and spinal cord develop and function.
The membranes and cerebrospinal fluid of the craniosacral system surround and protect the brain and spinal cord.
Craniosacral Massage therapy deals with the bones of the head, spinal column, sacrum and the underlying structures.
This type of massage employs a very light touch and uses specifically designed techniques to release restrictions and compression in these areas.
Craniosacral Massage – How Does it Work?
Craniosacral massage taps into the inherent wisdom of the body which allows it to heal itself where possible.
The craniosacral system has a rhythm that can be felt throughout the body. Craniosacral massage therapists use a very light, soft touch to monitor this rhythm and pinpoint sources of obstruction and stress in the body.
Once located the therapist will assist the natural movement and release of the restriction to help the body self correct.
Craniosacral massage therapy can be used to treat childhood conditions such as poor sleep, restlessness, colic and ear infections.
It is a gentle and non-invasive therapy and can be used to treat babies while they are asleep.
Craniosacral Massage – Is it safe for Everyone?
Craniocascral massage is safe if performed for the right condition.
As with most massage treatments there are some medical conditions that are contra indicated and craniosacral massage should not be recommended.
These include conditions where a variation and/or slight increase in intracranial pressure would cause instability.
Acute aneurysm, cerebral hemorrhage or other pre-existing severe bleeding disorders are examples of conditions that could be affected by small intracranial pressure changes.
It is advisable to consult your medical practitioner before embarking on a course of treatment.
The Effects Of The Craniosacral Massage
The human body has the ability to heal itself. The craniosacral massage is just a method that helps the body in this process.
The craniosacral system has a rhythm that passes through the whole body. Therapists monitor this rhythm by gently touching different area. This monitoring technique helps them identify the sources of obstruction and stress in the body.
The role of the therapist is to help the craniosacral system gain its natural rhythm again, by releasing the points of restriction.
Many illnesses can be assisted by craniosacral massage. Especially childhood ailments, like poor sleep, restlessness, colic and ear infections, may be eased through the use of this therapy.
As it involves only gently touching, even little babies can be treated in their sleep.
Safety Conditions
The craniosacral massage must be made in special conditions so it can be a safe procedure.
Not everybody can use the craniosacral massage as a therapy. There are illnesses that make it contra-indicated.
Any ailment that can become worse because of even the slightest variation in the intracranial pressure may not be treated with craniosacral massage.
Illnesses in which the craniosacral massage is not recommended include acute aneurysm, cerebral hemorrhage or other pre-existing severe bleeding disorders.
Go see your doctor before following this type of therapy to find out if it is safe for you.
The Benefits Of The Craniosacral Massage
There are many benefits of the craniosacral massage as this therapy improves the functioning of the central nervous system.
The craniosacral massage is especially used for prevention. It can increase the resistance to some diseases and it can prevent other medical conditions like: chronic back and neck pain, headache, tension, migraine, autism, chronic fatigue, post traumatic stress disorder or emotional difficulties.
Stress related dysfunctions and other sensory disorders can also be treated through this therapy. Here is how a session goes.
The main rule is to make yourself as comfortable as possible. The craniosacral massage sessions take place in a quiet room. The person receiving the massage remains fully clothed, but he or she may choose to wear comfortable clothes or even removing their shoes.
The position for receiving the massage consists of reclining on the massage couch or the treatment table, so the therapist can move around the patient in order to have access to the head, the torso and the feet.
A light organic oil can be used during the massage.
Where To Find A Qualified Therapist
If you want to enjoy all the benefits of a craniosacral massage, first you must find a therapist. He or she must be qualified and suitably trained.
