Craniosacral therapy is a scientifically based system of very light touch manual therapy used for both diagnosis and treatment. While it can be used to treat a variety of problems, it is most well known for its effectiveness in diagnosing and treating problems involving the muscles and spine, and for healing the emotional body. If you suffer from back, neck, or shoulder pain, headaches, fibromyalgia or arthritis, or if you think you need emotional healing, this type of therapy might be for you.

Craniosacral therapy is extremely effective at identifying the underlying causes of both physical and emotional challenges. A qualified therapist uses very light touch to locate the key restrictions, adhesions or energy cysts in the body that are causing symptoms. This is extremely important since where we feel our pain often is not the same as the cause of the pain. By treating the root cause of pain, a therapist can sometimes solve problems that have escaped effective treatment for years.

The therapy is very gentle. A therapist works not so much by doing something to the body as by stimulating its self-corrective mechanisms. Clients are often surprised that, even though a therapist may be touching them very lightly, they feel the impact throughout their entire body, and may also experience an emotional release.

Sessions typically last an hour, and can be very relaxing. Patients also sometimes experience memory flashes that are related to the healing process, as they relive and release memories stored in the cells of the body. This results in a reduction of symptoms, and in increased feelings of well-being.

Craniosacral therapy was pioneered and developed by osteopath John Upledger. Interested professional body workers can study it by taking courses offered through the Upledger Institute (http://upledger.com). And if you think this therapy might help you relieve your pain or stress, and do not know any certified therapists in your area, you can find a practitioner through the Upledger Institute website. Be sure to look for someone with years of experience and training in the field.

© 2007 Ingrid Bacci Ph.D.

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