7 Ways That Craniosacral Therapy Has Helped My Clients Feel Better

by SharonHartnett | Jan 19, 2025 | craniosacral, Craniosacral Therapy, Energy Healing, mindfulness, stillpoint

Craniosacral Therapy Benefits

Many people report positive experiences with craniosacral therapy (CST), although the reasons for these experiences can vary. The therapy is often described as being deeply relaxing, and some individuals find it helpful for conditions like headaches, chronic pain, stress, anxiety, and even emotional release. Overall, Craniosacral Therapy is a unique holistic healing journey that holds many benefits.

Here are some of the most commonly reported positive experiences:

1. Deep Relaxation and Stress Relief

Many people find CST to be deeply calming. The gentle, hands-on approach, combined with the melding of the slow, rhythmic nature of the therapy, helps to activate the body’s relaxation response in the Nervous System.. This can lead to a reduction in stress, muscle tension, and a sense of overall well-being.
People often describe feeling more relaxed after a session, with some even reporting feeling “lighter and more spaceious inside” along with being more grounded.

2.Chronic Pain Relief

Some individuals with chronic pain conditions, such as neck pain, migraines, or back pain, have found relief through CST. The gentle listening and the quiet nudge of support of the Craniosacral System can help alleviate tension in the body and promote the relaxation of muscles and fascia.
Patients with headaches, particularly those caused by tension or stress, sometimes report fewer headaches or a reduction in intensity after CST sessions.

3. Improved Sleep

Many people say they experience better sleep after receiving CST, which could be related to the relaxation and stress reduction achieved during the session. Improved sleep quality may help individuals feel more rested and energized in the days following a treatment. Sleep time is when the brain clears, so it’s important to also create good sleeping habits.

4. Enhanced Emotional Well-being

Some people have reported emotional releases or breakthroughs during Somato-Emotional CST sessions. For instance, some might experience a surge of emotions or have a deeper sense of emotional clarity after a session. This could is related to the deep relaxation and the subtle bodywork when fascial tension leaves and the cranial rhythm comes to a stillpoint, which may help release pent-up tension or emotional blockages.
There are anecdotal reports of people feeling more emotionally balanced or having improved mood after CST, especially if they were struggling with stress, anxiety, or emotional trauma.

5. Better Range in Mobility

For those with musculoskeletal issues, CST can help improve mobility and range of motion, particularly in areas where there is stiffness or restriction. People with conditions like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction or postural imbalances may notice improved flexibility or reduced stiffness after CST. Higher level Craniosacral Therapist who are trained in mouthwork can work through an Upledger protocol or listen and follow the tissues and the rhythm to unwind and come into a more neutral balance. It helps restore structural integrity in the cranium.

6. General Sense of Feeling Well

Proactive health is best! Even those without specific pain or medical concerns often report feeling an increased sense of well-being after CST. The treatment is described as calming and restorative, which might be why it is commonly sought out by people looking to simply relax or promote general health.

7. Support for Emotional and/or Physical Healing

CST has been reported by some as a helpful adjunct to traditional medical treatments, especially in cases of trauma recovery or long-term health challenges. Individuals with conditions such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have sometimes found CST to provide a supportive, calming influence in their healing process.

Why Do People Report These Positive Experiences?

It’s interesting. In the western medical system, there is not a strong understanding of fascia and the Craniosacral System. Some people deny it with the idea of the Placebo effect. Afterall, most Craniosacral Therapist are heart centered caring people who pay compassionate attention to their clients. Maybe this is part of it. But isn’t this true with most kinds of medical treatment and and medicines. It works for some people but not all. Integrative Craniosacral Therapy is an experience. However, it is based on real anatomy and physiology, just like any medical treatment. It’s just a hands on manual approach, which happens to be profound and far reaching. It’s very individualized as it supports your unique system to heal.

The Relaxation Response: The slow, gentle nature of CST can activate the body’s parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the rest-and-digest response. This can lead to a decrease in heart rate, blood pressure, and muscle tension, helping people feel more relaxed and at ease.

Therapeutic Touch: Human touch, particularly when it’s gentle and non-invasive, can have profound psychological and physiological effects. The experience of being listened to and cared for, in combination with physical touch, might trigger a sense of healing or comfort. How many times in our past were our real needs met, and how do we change our body response to this type of connection?

Holistic Approach: CST emphasizes a holistic view of health, considering the interconnections between the body, mind, and emotions. This approach resonates with some people who feel that their health concerns are not only physical but also emotional or energetic. CST’s focus on balancing and restoring the body’s natural rhythms may appeal to those looking for a more integrated, whole-body form of healing. When we work 1:1 in Craniosacral Therapy, there is a special connection between the therapist and the nervous system of the person on the table. It’s a process of healing everything in us that is human. Everyting is indeed interconnected.

There are a lot of questions in the medical field about Craniosacral Therapy. In a system that is based on what we can see, and mostly on the physical level, it’s hard for people to imagine that listening to the body and helping it to self-correct is not realistic. Nonetheless, if you open your mind up, there are so many other possibilies in the Unknown. Why limit your beliefs about healing?

On a Realistic Note

Realistically, Craniosacral Therapy can feel magical. Deep transformation and healing happens quite often. At the same time, honestly some people don’t “get it”. It does take a certain ability and awareness to receive and to trust enough to sense the changes that are happening. Even still, as a therapist, we can feel things even if you can. But I want people to realize that while this work is profound, it takes a certain sensitivity to understand and know the benefits. However- most people feel more deeply relaxed and appreciate at the end of treatment.

If you have any more questions, I offer a free 15 phone consultation. I would love to speak and help you find if this is the right treatment for you.

Sharon Hartnett CST-D

614 653-8111 or cell: 703 509-1792

www.craniosacraltherapistcolumbus.com

What is the Craniosacral System Anyway?

by SharonHartnett | Jan 11, 2025 | Craniosacral Therapy

Tell Me About the Craniosacral System

Craniosacral System 101

Alright, Friends! Today, we’re going to learn about something really cool called the Craniosacral System. It sounds a bit complex, but don’t worry—I’ll explain it in a way that makes sense!

Let’s begin by by speaking about your brain and spinal cord. Imagine that these are the control center of your whole body. Like a big computer. The Seat of Intellgence.

Many essential functions begin here. Communication and information travels and brings alive your day to day functioning throughout your body.

The craniosacral system is like a special protective system for your brain and spinal cord. It’s like a friend who keeps the CNS healthy!

Here’s how it works:

Cranio = “skull” or “head,” and sacral = “sacrum,” which is the part at the bottom of your spine.
Inside your skull, there’s something called the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This is mainly created in the ventricals of your brain. It’s like a cushion of fluid that surrounds and moves through your brain and spinal cord. This fluid is super important because it helps protect your brain and spinal cord from injury, and it also helps remove waste that your brain doesn’t need.
The fluid moves around your brain and spinal cord in a rhythm, like gentle waves. This rhythm can be felt as it expands and contracts, and that’s where the name “craniosacral” comes from—the fluid moves from your head (cranium) down to your sacrum (at the bottom of your spine), kind of like a wave traveling back and forth. This can be felt by a trained Craniosacral Therapist.

So, basically, the craniosacral system is like a big, soft, protective wave that keeps your brain and spine safe. It’s very important for keeping your body healthy and balanced.

Many people don’t know much about the Craniosacral System yet. However, with the teaching of Dr. John Upledger, of the Upledger Institute, thousands and thousands of students across the world have learned to be skillful and experienced in this gentle yet profound work. Craniosacral Therapists are fairly easy to find now. In the last 50 years or so, Craniosacral Therapy has become more popular as people are speaking about the many benefits. It’s especially wonderful for deep relaxation, stress relief and in releasing tension and pain.

To find the best Craniosacral Therapist for you, check out the Upledger Page.

How to Calm Your Mind

by SharonHartnett | Dec 30, 2024 | Craniosacral Therapy, grounding, healing, stillpoint

To Calm the mind is essential for both mental and physical well-being. Fortunately you have come to the right place to discover a dynamic person to person modality that can help you feel more centered and at peace.

Craniosacral Therapy (CST)is a gentle hands on modality, which awakens the calm inside, through listening and melding with your Craniosacral System. By tapping into your own internal intelligence, CST helps to bring balance and deep relaxation into your life. Finding the stillpoint in your rhythm releases, and helps integrate your stresses- bringing you into a more peaceful state of being.

How can Craniosacral Therapy Help You to Live from a Calm State? It:

1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety

When the mind is calm, it helps to lower the levels of stress hormones like cortisol. Chronic stress can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. By calming your mind, you create space for a sense of peace and relaxation, which can significantly reduce anxiety levels and improve overall emotional health.

2. Improves Focus and Clarity

A cluttered mind often leads to scattered thoughts, making it difficult to concentrate or make decisions. To calm the mind helps clear out distractions and promotes mental clarity, enabling you to focus better on tasks, think more effectively, and make decisions with greater ease.

3. Enhances Emotional Regulation

When your mind is calm, you’re better equipped to handle difficult emotions. Instead of reacting impulsively or being overwhelmed by emotions like anger or frustration, a calm mind allows you to respond thoughtfully and with control, leading to healthier interactions and relationships.

4. Boosts Physical Health

Chronic mental tension can manifest in physical ailments such as headaches, muscle tension, or digestive problems. By calming the mind, you help reduce the impact of stress on your body, which can lead to improved sleep, better immune function, and overall physical health. You feel more deeply grounded and embodied.

5. Increases Creativity

When the mind is relaxed, it becomes more open to creative ideas and inspiration. Mental calmness reduces the mental barriers and judgment that can stifle creativity, allowing new ideas and solutions to emerge naturally. It creates a fertile ground for innovation and problem-solving.

6. Promotes Mindfulness and Presence

A peaceful mind fosters mindfulness, which is the practice of being fully present in the moment. This enhances your ability to enjoy life, engage in meaningful experiences, and build stronger connections with others. It helps you savor the simple joys of life and reduces the tendency to dwell on past regrets or future worries.

7. Supports Mental Resilience

A relaxed mind is a strong foundation for mental resilience. By practicing mindfulness or calming techniques, you build the mental fortitude to face challenges with a clear perspective. When your mind is calm, you’re more able to adapt to difficult situations, stay grounded, and maintain emotional balance, even in times of adversity.

In summary, Craniosacral Therapy is such a gentle, yet profound pathway to calming the mind. The benefits are numerous. It isn’t just about relaxation—it’s a powerful tool for enhancing your overall well-being, improving relationships, and fostering long-term mental and physical health.

Sharon Hartnett CST-D

703 509-1792

www.craniosacraltherapistcolumbus.com

How to Choose the Best Craniosacral Therapist for You

by SharonHartnett | Dec 27, 2024 | craniosacral, Craniosacral Therapy, upledger institute

Looking for the Best Fitting Craniosacral Therapist for You?

Finding the best craniosacral therapist for you involves a few key steps. Here’s how you can go about it:

Ask people you trust who have experienced Craniosacral Therapy first hand for Recommendations. Craniosacral Therapy is a very personal experience, and word of mouth is very helpful.
Check Qualifications: Look for a craniosacral therapist who is certified by a reputable organization, like the Upledger Institute. The work of Dr. John has been being taught for close to 40 years because it is powerful and deeply healing. Certification through the school shows that a student has received proper manual and somaticemotional training, and can provide expertise to your session. A practitioner is still a student until they have gone through the rigorous training and testing to become Certified.
Read Reviews: Search online for craniosacral reviews or testimonials. Look for therapists with positive feedback, especially regarding the specific issues you’re hoping to address (e.g., pain, stress, injury recovery). Google is a great resource: Click here
Experience with Your Issues: Some therapists specialize in certain areas, like pain relief, trauma, or stress. Make sure the therapist has experience treating the kind of issue you’re dealing with.
Initial Consultation: Many therapists offer a free first telephone consultation. This gives you the chance to ask questions, gauge how comfortable you feel with them, and see if their approach resonates with you.
Trust Your Instincts: The relationship with your therapist is important. You should feel safe, comfortable, and listened to. If you don’t feel a connection, it’s okay to try someone else.

By following these steps, you’ll increase your chances of finding a therapist who is a good fit for your needs.

Your craniosacral therapist will naturally want the best fit for you too.

Sharon Hartnett CST-D

703 509-1792

www.craniosacraltherapistcolumbus.com

www.upledger.com

How to Move out of Trauma Toward Health

by SharonHartnett | Dec 16, 2024 | Craniosacral Therapy, mindfulness, trauma

You are Not Your Trauma

How Craniosacral Therapy can Help You Release Your Trauma to Find Inner Peace…

Craniosacral Therapy (CST) can be particularly helpful for individuals who have experienced trauma, whether it is physical, emotional, or psychological. CST is a gentle, hands-on therapy that works with the body’s craniosacral system—comprising the brain, spinal cord, and the surrounding cerebrospinal fluid. The idea behind CST is that by applying subtle pressure, perhaps a nudge, to the craniosacral system, the therapist can help release tension, balance the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, and encourage the body’s own natural healing processes.

Here’s how CST may assist in trauma recovery:

1. Release of Stored Trauma

Trauma can manifest not only in the mind but also in the body. The body has a natural way of storing emotional and physical stress, and often, unresolved trauma can become “trapped” in tissues, fascia, and muscles. CST encourages the release of these stored tensions. The gentle listening and touch help to bring awareness to areas where trauma might be held, allowing the body to release these patterns in a safe and non-invasive way.

2. Regulation of the Nervous System

Trauma often leads to dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), resulting in a state of hyperarousal (fight or flight) or hypoarousal (freeze or dissociation). CST can help regulate the nervous system by activating the parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest), promoting a sense of calm and safety. This is crucial in trauma recovery, as it helps to shift the body out of a chronic stress response and back into a more balanced state.

3. Reducing Muscle Tension and Physical Pain

Many trauma survivors experience chronic pain or muscle tension as a result of the body’s protective response to trauma. CST can help release deep muscle tension and reduce physical discomfort. For people who have had physical trauma (such as accidents, injuries, or surgery), CST can also promote healing and alleviate pain associated with these injuries by improving circulation and reducing inflammation.

4. Improved Somatic Awareness

Trauma often leads to disconnection from one’s body, as individuals may dissociate or shut down in response to overwhelming experiences. CST encourages a reconnection with the body by increasing somatic awareness (the awareness of physical sensations). This process can be empowering, as it allows individuals to gently explore and process their experiences, fostering a sense of safety in their own bodies.

5. Promoting Emotional Healing

Trauma is not only stored in the body but also in the emotions. The gentle touch of CST may help to release emotional blockages that are tied to traumatic experiences. As the body relaxes and tension is released, clients often report emotional shifts, such as feelings of relief, lightness, or even the ability to access and express previously repressed emotions.

6. Trauma-Informed Approach

CST practitioners are trained to create a safe, supportive environment for trauma survivors. The non-invasive nature of CST and the respect for the client’s pace can make it an ideal therapy for those who may feel overwhelmed or unsafe with more traditional forms of bodywork or therapy. Practitioners are trained to be sensitive to the subtle cues of the body and ensure that any work done is within the client’s comfort zone.

7. Healing from Early Childhood Trauma

Craniosacral Therapy is also effective for individuals who have experienced early childhood trauma, including birth trauma. The craniosacral system plays a critical role in the early stages of development, and CST can help address any disruptions that may have occurred during birth or early childhood. This is particularly important as early trauma can affect neurological development and attachment patterns, and CST can support the healing of these early wounds.

8. Support for Dissociation

Dissociation is a common response to trauma, where an individual feels disconnected from themselves or their surroundings. CST can help with reintegration by gently guiding the body back into a state of balance and grounding. The physical touch can help bring attention back to the present moment and provide a sense of containment and stability.

9. Facilitates Deep Relaxation

CST induces a deeply relaxing state, which can be very beneficial for trauma survivors who experience hypervigilance or constant anxiety. By promoting relaxation and reducing the intensity of the body’s stress response, CST can help break the cycle of chronic stress that trauma survivors often experience.

10. Support for Complex PTSD

For individuals dealing with complex PTSD (C-PTSD), which may arise from prolonged or repeated trauma, CST can provide ongoing support. The gentle nature of CST allows individuals to slowly process trauma at their own pace, without the need for verbal confrontation of traumatic memories, which can sometimes be overwhelming.

Conclusion

Craniosacral Therapy provides a holistic, body-based approach that helps trauma survivors address the physical and emotional aspects of their healing journey. By promoting relaxation, releasing tension, balancing the nervous system, and encouraging somatic awareness, CST can be a powerful tool in trauma recovery, especially when combined with other therapeutic modalities like talk therapy or somatic therapies. It offers a gentle, non-invasive option for individuals looking to heal from the effects of trauma and reclaim a sense of safety and well-being in their bodies.

As always, it’s important for individuals to consult with trained professionals, as each person’s experience with trauma and healing is unique.

For more information about how Craniosacral Therapy can work for you,

Contact:

Sharon Hartnett CST-D.

703 509-1792

www.craniosacraltherapistcolumbus.com

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