Upledger: How to Find the Most Qualified Craniosacral Therapist

by SharonHartnett | Feb 21, 2025 | Craniosacral Therapy, upledger institute

Upledger Craniosacral Therapy Near Me

Columbus Craniosacral Therapist: Sharon Hartnett CST Diplomate Certified.

In 2003, I was drawn to an Upledger Craniosacral Therapy (CST) class in Washington DC. The class was huge. The information was vast and based on the anatomy, physiology of the Craniosacral System which I knew next to nothing about except for briefly skimming over the basics.

However, I was drawn to learning CST because while I was already a healer, Structural Integration Therapist,Hakomi practitioner, and massage therapist, I had visited an advanced Upledger Craniosacral Therapist-Suzanne Herberts- whose work I found to be amazingly profound, and transformational. So off I went to learn to study Dr. John’s work.

The first. class taught me the foundational 10 step protocol and was the first of many classes on a life long journey. I won’t lie, and tell you that it was easy. Not many schools teach the work of Craniosacral Therapy, nor have many people ever heard of it unless they are “in the know”. There is a lot to learn and you have to enjoy learning the extensive anatomy of the body to become highly effective and specific in the CST work. Yet when you fall in love and feel passionate about something, you step into it and immerse. At least I do anyway.

Over many years, I have continued to study this work. It is an ongoing exploration. The human body is our sacred vessel in which we live, and there is great wonder in dialoguing with each person, and what lives within. While its foundation is clear, there are many ways to weave in and out of the human body with intuition, expertise and understanding. With an open mind and healthy techniques, we can delve deep into the Inner Wisdom to unlock many healing capabilities.

In any case, when I looked at Craniosacral Schools, I simply decided that the Upledger Institute was the best around. Dr. John Upledger had a wonderful reputation as being magically skillful, but also made the work available in a way that many people could learn and help others. If anything, I would say the biggest gift he brought to this world was making Craniosacral Therapy ubiquitous. People across the world and over have studied and used his methodology and teachings to serve others.

About Dr. John Upledger and what makes his teaching stand out.

Dr. John Upledger’s approach to craniosacral therapy (CST) exels because of its unique blend of deep scientific understanding and a profound respect for the body’s natural ability to heal. What truly sets his teaching apart is the emphasis on listening to the body—something that goes beyond technique and into the realm of intuitive healing. Upledger believed that CST wasn’t just about manipulating the body, but rather about creating a nurturing environment for the body to heal itself.

He introduced an innovative perspective with his pioneering research, showing how the craniosacral system, which includes the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid around the brain and spinal cord, plays a crucial role in health and wellness. His work demonstrated that imbalances or restrictions in this system could affect the entire body, influencing both physical and emotional health.

What makes Dr. Upledger’s teachings so special is his deep belief in the therapist’s role as a guide or facilitator in the healing process, rather than someone who “fixes” the patient. He encouraged his students to embrace a gentle, hands-on approach while cultivating sensitivity and an open heart to connect with the body’s rhythms and energy.

In his workshops, he created an atmosphere of trust and openness, helping practitioners develop the skills to tune into the body’s subtle signals. His warm, approachable style made learning this powerful therapy accessible to so many, and his focus on self-awareness and self-care is at the core of his philosophy. For him, CST was more than a therapy—it was a way of being, a way of offering compassion, and a path to healing.

Discover the Healing Touch of Craniosacral Therapy by Dr. John Upledger

Many clients find Craniosacral Therapy to be deeply relaxing and effective in promoting overall well-being. Here’s how it can benefit you:

Gentle and Relaxing: Craniosacral Therapy involves light touches on the head, neck, and spine, offering a calming experience that helps reduce stress and anxiety. It’s a peaceful way to feel deeply relaxed, both physically and mentally.
Relieves Tension and Pain: Whether you’ve been dealing with headaches, neck pain, or chronic muscle tension, this therapy targets areas where stress and discomfort accumulate, providing relief without the need for intense manipulation.
Improves Mobility: The therapy enhances the movement of the cerebrospinal fluid, which nourishes your brain and spinal cord. This can lead to improved flexibility and a sense of lightness in your body, helping you feel more mobile and free.
Supports Healing of Injuries: If you’ve had physical trauma or injury, Craniosacral Therapy can support the healing process. It helps improve circulation and reduces inflammation, allowing your body to recover at its own pace.
Balances Your Body and Mind: Beyond physical relief, many people report a sense of emotional balance and clarity after sessions. Craniosacral Therapy gently encourages harmony between your body and mind, supporting your emotional well-being.
Personalized Care: Dr. Upledger’s approach focuses on listening to your body’s unique needs. Each session is tailored to you, creating a safe space where you can experience deep healing.

Obviously, I am a big believer in Dr. John Upledger’s Work. The school is known for its high level teaching and it’s teaching staff being top notch. More importantly though, I keep coming back to the love of connection, melding and evolving that comes out of this work. It changes everything when a person is met, understood, tuned into, and appreciated with skill, touch and presence. Being the therapist also is deeply rewarding.

For You

If you’re seeking a holistic and nurturing way to address physical discomfort or simply want to restore balance and peace to your life, Craniosacral Therapy could be the supportive therapy you’ve been looking for. Not sure what to look for in a practitioner? Read my guide on how to choose the best craniosacral therapist.

About the Author

Sharon Hartnett CST-D is a Diplomated Certified Upledger Craniosacral Therapist approved through the Upledger Institute. She has worked in Integrative Therapies for close to 30 years. If you would like to find out more about UI, you can go to: www.upledger.com

Sharon Hartnett CST-D
Located in Worthington and Serving the Columbus Area
(614) 653-8111

To learn more about my craniosacral therapy services, visit my main page here.

How to Develop a Good Plan for Stress Management

by SharonHartnett | Jan 24, 2025 | Craniosacral Therapy, Energy Healing, grounding, healing, healthy, Healthy Body, meditation, mind body & spirit, mindfulness

Who needs stress?

Well, stress can be beneficial. It can help your performance in any part of your life if it is used in a positive way. However, chronic stress is a different matter. Long-term stress can be a major contributor to numerous health problems.

Fortunately, there are some tools that you can learn to help you stay healthy in your mind and body connection. Addressing stress as soon as possible can significantly shift your mindset. An intentional practice of committing to self-care can help avoid or minimize anxiety, depression, cardiovascular diseases and chronic pain.

If you haven’t already come up with a plan for stress managment, here are a few ideas:

Mindfulness, prayer and meditation can help reduce cortisol levels and bring one to center. This is a practice of becoming fully aware in the moment through experience and observation. Curiousity also helps set the stage for discovering inner peace.
Holistic and Complementary practices like Craniosacral Therapy, Visceral Manipulation, Acupuncture have shown to be very helpful with stress management.
Breathing Exercises can shift you more into a calm state. One that I recommend is breathing in to a slow count of 4, exhale to 6 and pause. In your practice continue to lengthen the pause at the end of the exhale. Also, practice diaphragmatic breathing, imagining your breath filling the whole ribcage as it expands and contracts. Allow the breath to move all the way to the pelvic floor.
Check with your physician about the Role of Nutrition: omega 3, magnesium and certaine B vitamins support brain health, and help to regulate emotions.
Sleep. It’s so important to get enough rest. When you sleep well your brain is able to clear through the glymphatic system. This can help you to feel much better restored, and to heal. A good sleep routine is imperative to good health.

Being in a Healing Practice for close to 30 years, I have seen so many people with chronic stress.I want you to know that it’s possible to step away from that. However, it does mean making a choice to change your life. Your power comes in the form of doing things that bring you back to your balanced and healthy Self.

If you have any questions, how I can help you as a Craniosacral Therapist, I offer a free 15 phone consultation.

Sharon Hartnett CST-D

614 653-8111

Serving the Columbus Ohio Area

To find out more about Craniosacral Therapy, check out my main page.

7 Ways That Craniosacral Therapy Has Helped My Clients Feel Better

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

7 Ways Craniosacral Therapy Has Helped My Clients Feel Better

Many people report positive experiences with craniosacral therapy, though the reasons vary. It’s often described as deeply relaxing, and many find it helpful for headaches, chronic pain, stress, anxiety, and even emotional release. Overall, craniosacral therapy is a unique, holistic healing journey with a lot of benefits. Here are the ones my clients mention most.

1. Deep Relaxation and Stress Relief

Most people find this work deeply calming. The gentle, hands-on approach, together with the slow, rhythmic nature of the therapy, helps activate the body’s relaxation response in the nervous system. That can mean a reduction in stress, less muscle tension, and a sense of overall wellbeing.
People often describe feeling more relaxed after a session — some say “lighter and more spacious inside,” and more grounded.

2. Chronic Pain Relief

Many people with chronic pain — neck pain, migraines, back pain — have found relief through craniosacral therapy. The gentle listening and quiet nudge of support to the craniosacral system can ease tension and let muscles and fascia relax.
Clients with headaches, especially those caused by tension or stress, often report fewer headaches or less intensity after sessions.

3. Improved Sleep

Many people sleep better after a session, which likely comes from the relaxation and stress reduction. Better sleep quality helps people feel more rested and energized in the days that follow. Sleep is when the brain clears, so good sleeping habits matter too.

4. Enhanced Emotional Wellbeing

Some people experience emotional releases or breakthroughs during SomatoEmotional Release sessions — a surge of feeling, or a deeper sense of emotional clarity afterward. This is tied to the deep relaxation and subtle bodywork: when fascial tension leaves and the cranial rhythm comes to a stillpoint, pent-up tension and emotional blocks can let go. I pair this with somatic, trauma-informed work when it’s needed.
Clients often tell me they feel more emotionally balanced or have an improved mood, especially if they came in struggling with stress, anxiety, or trauma.

5. Better Mobility

For musculoskeletal issues, craniosacral therapy can improve mobility and range of motion where there’s stiffness or restriction. People with TMJ dysfunction or postural imbalances often notice more flexibility and less stiffness. Higher-level craniosacral therapists trained in mouthwork can follow the tissues and the rhythm to unwind and restore structural balance in the cranium.

6. A General Sense of Feeling Well

Proactive health is best. Even people without a specific complaint often report an increased sense of wellbeing after a session. The treatment is calming and restorative, which is why many come simply to relax and support their general health.

7. Support for Emotional and Physical Healing

Craniosacral therapy can be a helpful companion to medical treatment, especially in trauma recovery or long-term health challenges. People with fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, or PTSD have found it to be a supportive, calming presence in their healing. The same is true after concussion or injury.

Why Do People Report These Experiences?

It’s interesting. The Western medical system doesn’t have a strong understanding of fascia or the craniosacral system, and some people dismiss it as the placebo effect. Most craniosacral therapists are heart-centered, caring people who pay compassionate attention to their clients — maybe that’s part of it. But isn’t that true of most medical treatments and medicines? They work for some people and not all. Craniosacral therapy is an experience, and it’s based on real anatomy and physiology, like any medical treatment. It’s a hands-on manual approach that happens to be profound and far-reaching, and it’s individualized because it supports your unique system to heal. If you want the mechanics, I explain them in What Does Craniosacral Therapy Do?

The relaxation response: The slow, gentle nature of this work activates the parasympathetic nervous system — the rest-and-digest side — lowering heart rate, blood pressure, and muscle tension, so you feel more at ease.

Therapeutic touch: Human touch, especially when it’s gentle and non-invasive, has real psychological and physiological effects. Being listened to and cared for, combined with touch, can 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’s response to that kind of connection?

A holistic approach: Craniosacral therapy considers the connections between body, mind, and emotions. When we work one-on-one, there’s 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’s human. Everything is interconnected.

There are a lot of questions in the medical field about craniosacral therapy. In a system based on what we can see, it’s hard for people to imagine that listening to the body and helping it self-correct is realistic. But if you open your mind, there are so many possibilities. Why limit your beliefs about healing?

On a Realistic Note

Craniosacral therapy can feel magical, and deep transformation happens often. At the same time, some people don’t “get it.” It takes a certain awareness to receive, and enough trust to sense the changes that are happening. As a therapist I can feel things even when you can’t yet. This work is profound, but it does take a certain sensitivity to understand its benefits. Even so, most people feel more deeply relaxed and appreciative by the end of a treatment.

Ready to feel better? I’m Sharon Hartnett, a Diplomate-Certified Craniosacral Therapist (CST-D) through the Upledger Institute, with about 30 years of experience listening to the body and helping it heal. My office is in Worthington, Ohio, and I serve the greater Columbus area.

If you’re curious whether this gentle work is right for you, I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation. Call or text me at (614) 653-8111.

Learn more about craniosacral therapy in Columbus, read answers to common questions about craniosacral therapy, or find out how to choose the best craniosacral therapist for you.

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.

To find out more about Craniosacral Therapy, check out my main 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

614 653-8111

Serving the Columbus Ohio area.

To find out more about Craniosacral Therapy, check out my main page.

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