Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a gentle hands-on technique that uses a light touch to examine membranes and movement of the fluids in and around the central nervous system. Relieving tension in the central nervous system promotes a feeling of well-being by eliminating pain and boosting health and immunity.

The focus of CST is a gentle placement of hands to assist release of the body’s connective tissue, or “fascia.” Fascia is a covering found throughout the body including organs, glands, nerves, muscles, blood vessels, brain and spinal cord. This covering forms a body-wide connective network. CST is based on the idea that the body is interrelated at all levels.

CST is thought to improve efficiency of biological processes through boosting inherent self-regulation, self-correction and self-healing.

CST is a western holistic healing modality based on osteopathy, that optimizes the flow of energy throughout the body. The name refers to practitioners’ attention to the craniosacral rhythm, which is the flow of cerebrospinal fluid from the head (cranium) to the tailbone (sacrum). This rhythmic movement is generated by pressure changes throughout the head and spine during the production and absorption of cerebrospinal fluid; its subtle flow indicates the harmony and disharmony of the whole person.

By working with the body’s inherent healing processes to restore the natural movement of the fluids, tissue and bones, CST practitioners can assist their clients to release painful or restricted conditions anywhere in the system, by bringing greater awareness to the internal flows of the client, CST practitioners facilitate and empower clients self-healing process. CST can be helpful in calming the mind, harmonizing the emotions and encouraging physical well-being. The meditative state that occurs during a CST session, facilitates a deeper mind-body-spirit connection that is healing and deeply rejuvenating on all levels (Chai, 2014).