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CranioSacral Therapy FAQs
What is a typical CranioSacral Therapy/Sacred Spaces Bodywork session like?
During a session clients relax on a comfortable massage table, usually on their back, unless they require a different position to be comfortable. The client remains clothed. Clothing that is comfortable is recommended.
I begin and end a session by gently holding the heels. From this perspective I becomes aware of fluid flow, tissue health, and areas that may be contributing to uncomfortable symptoms. With finely tuned palpation skills, I am able to detect areas where the body would like to be supported. When the restricted tissue is supported with a thorough knowledge of the involved anatomy, the body’s inherent healing wisdom can express itself more fully, releasing its restrictions and restoring the flow of health, balance and functional mobility.
Clients may experience sensations of heat, tingling, increased relaxation, pressure changes, and abdominal gurgling, as well as greater awareness and connection to their body.
A session typically lasts one hour, although infants and children may require shorter sessions. Clients who desire more concentrated work may schedule 2-3 hours per day for 1-5 days. I am happy to customize a program for you based on your needs. |
How many sessions do I need?
This is a difficult question to answer because there are many variables. The overall goal of this work is to optimize the flow of fluids (blood, lymph and cerebrospinal fluid) which nourishes the health of all tissues - bone, muscle, nerves, organs, etc. Under these supportive conditions the body is able to repair and rebalance itself, release restriction patterns, and find a clearer expression of health. The number of sessions needed depends on several factors including how long the condition has been present, the overall health of the tissues, the challenges that the system has encountered (injuries, accidents, etc.), and the client's goals. Many symptoms are related to tissue patterns that have been developing over years. As a result, it takes time for the body to build resources that allow it to support healthier, more balanced ways of functioning.
Infants and children tend to release restriction patterns more quickly and easily requiring an average of three sessions. Infants and children with more complex challenges such as traumatic brain injury, cerebral palsy, autism, developmental delay, seizure disorder, or sensory integration difficulties typically benefit from this work on an ongoing basis, just like the other therapies they receive such as PT, OT and speech therapy. Adults vary, although noticeable improvements generally occur within four to six sessions. Many of my clients choose to receive regular ongoing treatment and find this work to play an important role in supporting their health, just like good food and exercise.
What is the craniosacral system?
The craniosacral system is comprised of the brain and spinal cord, cerebrospinal fluid that cushions and supports, the dural membranes that surround and contain the fluid, and the bony outer layer of the head (cranium), vertebrae, and tailbone (sacrum) that provide protection for the inner structures.
Other areas of the body, such as legs and arms, can also have a direct impact on the craniosacral system. Because all areas of the body are connected by a web of tissue called fascia, a restriction in one area can affect the function of another area. Craniosacral therapy follows the lead of the body which allows me to support the appropriate fulcrum, or balance point, that assists the body in gaining improved fluid flow and tissue pliability.
What effects will I see after the treatment?
Treatment results vary from person to person because each of us is unique. Generally, clients report increased relaxation, clearer thinking, decreased pain, and an overall sense of well-being after a treatment. Sometimes, there is a transition period during which the client experiences mild fatigue and/or muscle aches. Some clients may not notice subtle changes initially until they become more aware of and connected to their body.
Will I feeI discomfort after a session?
Our bodies are wonderful at adapting to challenges and overcoming less than optimal conditions. The goal of a session is to help your body achieve better balance and greater ease in its function. There can be an adjustment process as your body lets go of the old and finds a new place of balance. While infrequent, some people experience mild discomfort during this process of rebalancing that may last 1-2 days post session. The few clients who experience discomfort report mild fatigue and occasionally muscle aches. Rest and increasing water intake may help the body make its way through this transition smoothly. If you have questions or concerns about the rebalancing process, please call me.
How will I know I’m getting results from the treatment?
If the treatment is working, you will experience a decrease in symptoms and an overall improvement in health and function. Do not expect this to happen overnight: the problems did not develop overnight. Have patience as your body changes. Learn to be aware of the subtleties of those changes. Pay attention to what feels easier, what requires less effort. It is the little changes that add up to major change.
Are the changes permanent?
This work is about helping the body reestablish and strengthen its connection to its innate health. Within all of us there is health constantly seeking to express itself. Changes that occur support the health of the body and are therefore long term. As areas involved in creating symptoms achieve better balance, other areas needing attention may surface. Similar to the layers of an onion: as one layer is addressed other layers now have the opportunity to present themselves which allows the healing process to occur at a deep level. This work supports a shift in perspective - rather than the quick fix that focuses on suppressing symptoms, we are looking to address the core of the imbalance. Just like it took time to arrive at a place of imbalance, it also requires time to return to a place of balance.
Our lifestyle can also support or detract from our health. It is unrealistic to expect the body to maintain health if we continue to make demands on it without adequate support. Sometimes lifestyle changes are needed to support the body’s expression of health. I am happy to discuss this with you and make appropriate referrals or suggestions as needed.
Will resuming my normal activity negatively affect the work from the session?
Resuming normal activity typically does not detract from the work during a session. If you are extremely active and major changes have occurred during your session it may feel best to minimize heavy activity for a day or two as your body completes its changes. I encourage you to listen to your body and if it requires additional rest, respect your body’s need.
When is treatment not appropriate?
Craniosacral therapy and Sacred Spaces Bodywork, when practiced by a skilled therapist, are extremely safe and gentle. I am able to listen to the body and with your input gauge what it is able to tolerate. However, if you have an emergency situation, such as an acute injury, then the skill of a physician is the most appropriate treatment to receive at the time. Once your physician has treated you, this work can help speed the healing process and help to eliminate compensating patterns following acute injury. If you have concerns regarding a specific situation please discuss these with me, or call your physician.
If I am sick (cold or flu), should I come in for treatment?
This work can be very beneficial for supporting the healing process during a cold or flu. If you are feeling well enough to leave your home, treatment can give your recovery a boost. If you are infectious, please let me know before your appointment so I can decide if I wish to be exposed. An alternative may be to make use of the Far Infrared Sauna.
What can I do between treatments to help myself?
Anything that enhances your connection to and awareness of your body will benefit your healing process. Clients have found meditation, yoga, tai chi, and chi gong to be beneficial. The simple process of tuning in to your body sensations periodically during your day helps activate your body's healing response. Spend a few moments placing your hands lightly over your belly button and tune in to the movement of your breath in your abdomen as it expands and softens. This is especially helpful before getting out of bed in the morning or before to drifting off to sleep.
Cathy Holway, PT has created a CD Stillness in Flow: A Healing Journey. Two of the three tracks are specifically designed to enhance the treatment process in between sessions. In the first track Cathy guides you through 16 minutes of Relaxation Techniques. They are designed to enhance your awareness of your breath and your body. Track two is 18 minutes of Self Care. Cathy guides you through various hand positions designed to support the release of restrictions and enhance optimal flow in specific areas.
I have found this CD tremendously beneficial when feeling stressed, under the weather, or in need of regrouping. My clients have also found it to be very helpful when having difficulty falling asleep and dealing with stressful situations. One client regularly listens to the CD with her young son and finds they both are calmer through the day. In addition, her son, who has a history of severe food sensitivities, has been displaying fewer reactions since using the CD regularly. In my experience, clients who make use of this CD respond more effectively to their treatments. Stillness in Flow is available through Gillispie Partners in Wellness for $15.00 plus tax. |
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