How it works

Most massage techniques focus on muscles, tendons and ligaments. CST focuses on the body’s Craniosacral system. This system exists at the core of the spine and consists of the cerebrospinal fluid, which bathes and cushions the brain and the spinal cord. The motion of this fluid is like the tide. Like ebb and flow; bones, organs and other structures in the body each follow their own particular pattern of movement. This motion is so subtle that it is barely measurable with instruments, however the hands of a trained therapist are able to perceive it. In response to physical or emotional stress, the body’s tissues contract. All stresses, tensions or traumas ‘stored’ in the body in this way, will restrict the body’s functioning and will show up in an analysis of the Craniosacral system.

CST is based on the theory that every cell in a healthy body expresses a rhythmic movement, which has been called Craniosacral movement. CS therapists are trained to feel this subtle motion in the body and can use it to identify areas where there is congestion or restriction. In this way they can identify the possible origin of a problem. By using the hands to reflect back to the body the pattern it is holding, the therapist provides an opportunity for the body to let go of its restrictive behavior.