Craniosacral Therapy

Craniosacral Therapy (CST), developed by osteopathic physician Dr. John Upledger, is a subtle yet powerful hands-on approach that helps release tension deep in the body to relieve pain, reduce stress, and support the nervous system. Grounded in osteopathic principles, CST works by gently facilitating the movement of cerebrospinal fluid through the craniosacral system—the membranes and fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord.

By quietly resting the hands on your skull and sacrum, the therapist evaluates your craniosacral rhythms. This gentle contact—no more than the weight of a nickel—often initiates shifts in energy on its own. At times, the therapist may notice areas where energy feels stuck or where heat accumulates. Using the bones of the cranium and sacrum as “handles,” the practitioner can access and release restrictions within the deeper layers of fluid and membrane—without the use of instruments or devices.

Sessions are collaborative, quiet, and deeply relaxing. The practitioner listens with their hands, tuning in to your body’s rhythms while waiting patiently for shifts to occur. Clients often enter a meditative state—what Dr. Upledger described as “a question of trust.” You might feel yourself sinking inward, becoming more aware of subtle sensations, emotions, or memories. According to Dr. Michael Milne, “the client clears a mental space so something might occur.” The experience is often described as a physically connected meditation.

One of the most profound aspects of Craniosacral Therapy is the natural pause in the craniosacral rhythm called the still point—a moment of quiet that occurs every few minutes and lasts several seconds. These still points are spontaneous and deeply healing. Like a sigh, they allow the body to recalibrate, unwind, and return to a place of balance. During sessions, you may become more aware of these still points as moments of insight or release, when your body lets go of tension and reorients toward wellness.

Craniosacral Therapy is well suited for people of all ages and is particularly effective for:

Headaches and migraines
TMJ dysfunction
Chronic neck and back pain
Nervous system regulation
Stress, anxiety, and PTSD
Sleep disturbances and fatigue
Emotional trauma or overwhelm
Pediatric and birth-related conditions

We invite you to reach out with questions or to schedule a session.

Go deeper with CST