There are three approaches to craniosacral therapy. The sutural approach focuses on the manipulation of the sutures, the area where the bones meet in the skull. The meningeal approach focuses on releasing restrictions of the cranial sutures and the underlying membranes. The reflex approach works on reflexes that trigger the nervous system to turn off stress signals.

Cranial therapy in its application can be gently or aggressively engaged. In an aggressive application, gentle manipulation or application of pressure to the cranial bones are decided upon and enacted to bring about the structural reorganization desired by the practitioner. The prevailing, more gentle, treatment process promotes keen listening with the mind and sensing with the hands, following the lead of the movement of the cerebrospinal fluid as it subtly changes. This approach allows the wisdom of the client’s system to guide the practitioner in restoring more balanced craniosacral function. The practitioner’s quiet, focused attention and regard reflect the belief that what heals from within is far more potent than that which comes from without.

Content last modified on Nov 24, 2009