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.

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

Or you can call Sharon Hartnett for a free 15 minute phone consultation at 703 509-1792

www.craniosacraltherapistcolumbus.com

Grounding Techniques: Simple Ways to Connect with Earth’s Healing Energy”

by SharonHartnett | Feb 18, 2025 | barbara brennan, Craniosacral Therapy, grounding, healing, healthy, meditation, upledger institute

Grounding for your Wellbeing

The earth is a bundle of grounding energy. It can nourish you from the bottom up! If you take the time to stand outside and feel the ground below your feet, the earth will open up your life flow. Whether you stand out in the sunshine or lie in the snow, feel the healthy grounding of your physical wellbeing.

How Grounding can help you. For:

Empaths & Highly Sensitive People – If you absorb others’ emotions or energy easily, grounding helps you stay balanced and not get overwhelmed.
Healers & Energy Workers – When working with energy, grounding prevents depletion and keeps the flow stable.
People Going Through Spiritual Awakenings – Awakening can make you feel unsteady or disconnected; grounding keeps you anchored in your body and the present moment.
Those Experiencing Anxiety or Overthinking – Grounding shifts your focus from racing thoughts to the stability of the earth, bringing calm and clarity.
Anyone Going Through Major Life Changes – Transitions can make you feel uprooted; grounding helps create a sense of stability and trust in the process.
People Working in High-Stress Environments – Stress can scatter your energy; grounding helps you stay centered and focused.
Individuals Feeling Disconnected from Nature or Their Bodies – If you’re stuck in technology, overanalyzing, or feeling out of touch with yourself, grounding reconnects you.

A good exercise to start grounding with is to imagine roots coming down your feet into the earth bringing you calm and centeredness. Allow yourself to absorb the strength and power of the Earth. If you are more of a touch person, reach out and touch a tree. I know that sounds a bit “out there, but you might be amazed, and what you can sense and feel. Lastly, just looking around and connecting with your eyes can help you to connect. Especially if you start by notice how beautiful the earth is!

Lastly, trying a session in Craniosacral Therapy can help you to feel more embodied and grounded. It’s gentle and very centering as well.

Sharon Hartnett CST-D

703 509-1792

www.craniosacraltherapistcolumbus.com

How to Best Express Your Emotions Effectively

by SharonHartnett | Feb 9, 2025 | Craniosacral Therapy, Energy Healing, fear, grounding, healing, Healthy Body

The Transformation of Raw Emotions Into Emotional Intelligence

Speaking to Neurodivergence

Living with a neurodivergent mind can come with a range of emotions and challenges. As each individual is unique, this can show up in many ways. When I speak of neurodivergence, I am referring to those of us who cognitively process information differently than neurotypical thinkers. This can include:

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Unique social communication challenges, sensory sensitivities, and repetitive behaviors. I recommend the Telepathy Tapes to learn more about this.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Features of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Dyslexia: Difficulty with language skills, especially reading.
Dyscalculia: Difficulty with performing basic arithmetic.
Dyspraxia: Issues related to physical coordination.
Tourette’s Syndrome: Involuntary, repetitive movements and vocalizations.
Down’s Syndrome: Genetic disorder causing developmental and intellectual delays.

Stress, in particular, among neurodivert people may play a big part in keeping neurodivergent thinkers feeling isolated and alone. Our feelings, emotions, and expressions can easily be misunderstood or misinterpreted. However, as we learn to understand our raw and vulnerable selves better, and also as more people learn to understand and accept people who seem different, for the whole, it allows for more diversity and creativity. We each have our gifts as well. Neurodivergent thinkers can actually be super creative out of the box thinkers, and help come up with innovate ideas to help resolve problems.

Common issues with Emotions with Neurodivergence:

Social Anxiety

I know that sometimes just being in the same space as other people alerts the nervous system into hypersensitivity. A neurodivergent person could end up feeling sensory overload when they detect conflict or too much energy around them. Maybe it is pressure to perform or to look like everyone else. Maybe coming up with words to communicate is hard. In this case, the healing response might be to ground or to limit overstimulation so that we can feel safe in our emotions.

Time Management

It may be difficult to keep focused or on schedule. People may become impatient or uncomfortable if they don’t understand or feel at ease with the boundaries and patterns which are unfamiliar. Especially with procrastination. It’s easy for people to think we are lazy or that we don’t want to partipate, or do the work. For healing, it’s important to realize that everyone is organized differently and healthy processing time for some may be to do nothing until ready to make the next move.

Self Blame

It’s easy to blame oneself when others who are neurotypical don’t understand why we don’t have the same social cues or regulation. Many neurodivergent people might believe they are the problem, when actually they are not. They are just different. It’s vital they they are reflected back as valuable in their authenticity and contributions. They should not have to “mask” in order to be accepted or valued. Once we all see the light in each other, the more the Whole can evolve.

Emotional Woundings

Neurodivergent individuals can feel emotionally chaotic at time. Their experiences may feel more hightened, and they don’t know the best way to respond. It’s important that they find supportive people to help them to understand. In today’s world, sometime emotions get a bad wrap. I’d suggest that many neurodivergent thinkers are actually more emotionally mature if they decide to work through what comes up for them. They have to work and move through so much more. It’s an art and a skill to relate when it doesn’t come easily.

Physically

They may need more rest and down time to integrate with introspection.

Unique Communication Styles

While neurodivergent people may not always communicate in ways that others expect, their style can bring fresh insights or directness. For example, individuals on the autism spectrum might be incredibly honest and straightforward, offering clarity in situations where others might shy away from being so direct.

Being good at understanding and managing emotions can be a challenge for neurotypical thinkers. However, with healthy support, they can learn how to deal with life and make better decisions based on their unique perspectives in life. Being mindful, as we learn to stay more in the moment, and get to know ourselves, moving from stress to emotional intelligence moves us and humanity forward. We are all in this thing called humanity together.

If you are interested in a body centered therapy to help you to ground, feel more embodied and integrated, check out the Upledger Institute for a therapist near you.

Sharon Hartnett CST-D

703 509-1792

www.craniosacraltherapistcolumbus.com

3 Big Benefits of Receiving Structural Integration Therapy

by SharonHartnett | Jan 24, 2025 | better posture, Craniosacral Therapy, Energy Healing, Healthy Body, Massage, mindfulness, move effortlessly, Structural Integration

How Structural Integration Chose Me.

The miracles of fascia work.

Structural Integration really helped me when I was in my 30’s after having children. My body was so out of alignment, especially after carrying children on my hip and bending over so much. The smartest thing I did was to find a local Rolfer. After 10 sessions, I felt so much longer and spacious, I decided to study it with another local teacher, John Latz for 18 months.

When I lived in the Washington DC area, and Florida, I had a wonderful private practice where I did mostly Structural Integration for many years. Eventually though, as I began to get older, I decided to move more into the Craniosacral Therapy because it’s easier on the body. What I liked about this transition is that both consider the fascia and have similar benefit, but the technques are different. Also, neither are truly considered massage, but instead manual therapy with their own unique perspective to healing.

For about the last 15 years, I have lived in the Columbus, Ohio area, and my primary focus is the Upledger Craniosacral Sessions. However, I still take into account the perspective of structural integration and stacking the body in alignment with the efforlessness of gravity consideration. Also, by addressing imbalances in posture, through the series, even with a gentle approach, it helps to reduce strain on muscles, joints, ligaments and lends to comfort in daily living. By working with the fasica, both in SI work and Craniosacral Therapy, we can help release restrictions, and unzip the body into new possibilities.

Three benefits I see often are:

1. More energy

2. Better Balance

3. Improved Circulation and Motion

I believe that fascia is an incredible system that is still being uncovered and understood. However, therapist have known this for a long time. We have witnessed the strength and power of change with the fascia over and over again.

As I stated, I no longer do primarily Structural Integration, but I do “integrate” it into my Craniosacral Work. It’s much more gentle, and more inclusive with its attention on the Craniosacral System and the rhthym. I do sort of a combination with the fascial awareness. It’s all about letting go of stress can creating a better environment for healing.

If you would like to find out more about how I work, I do offer a free 15 phone consultation. 703 509-1792

Sharon Hartnett CST-D

703 509-1792

www.craniosacraltherapistcolumbus.com

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

7035091792

Serving the Columbus Ohio Area

www.craniosacraltherapistcolumbus.com