Person receiving a back massage on a massage table.

What is CranioSacral Therapy?

CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on therapy that works with the subtle rhythms of the body to support the nervous system and encourage deep healing. Using very light touch, the therapist helps release restrictions in the craniosacral system — which includes the membranes and fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

This work is deeply calming and restorative, helping the body shift out of chronic stress and into a state where healing can naturally occur.

Our CranioSacral Therapy training is based on the work of John Upledger, who developed this approach through his osteopathic research and clinical work.

How CranioSacral Therapy Works

CranioSacral Therapy focuses on:

  • The central nervous system

  • Subtle restrictions in the head, spine, and sacrum

  • The body’s innate ability to self-correct and heal

Using light, non-invasive touch, the therapist listens to the body’s rhythms and follows them — rather than forcing change. This helps release long-held tension patterns, calm the nervous system, and improve communication between the brain and the body.

Because CST works at this foundational level, its effects can be both physical and emotional.

What CranioSacral Therapy Is Helpful For

CranioSacral Therapy can be especially beneficial for:

  • Chronic stress and nervous system overwhelm

  • Headaches and migraines

  • Neck and back pain

  • TMJ and jaw tension

  • Concussion or post-trauma recovery

  • Chronic fatigue and burnout

  • Sleep issues

  • Anxiety and emotional holding

Many people seek CST when their body feels “on edge,” exhausted, or unable to fully relax — even when they’re doing all the right things.

What a CranioSacral Therapy Session Is Like

A CranioSacral session is quiet, slow, and deeply supportive.

During the session:

  • You remain fully clothed, lying comfortably on the table

  • The therapist uses a very light touch (often described as the weight of a nickel)

  • There is no forceful manipulation

  • Many people enter a deeply relaxed or meditative state

Some clients feel subtle shifts during the session; others notice changes over the next few days as the nervous system integrates the work.

How This Fits Into Our Whole-Body Approach

CranioSacral Therapy works beautifully on its own and also integrates well with other modalities we offer, such as Myofascial Release, Neuromuscular Therapy, and Whole Body View work.

Because CST supports the nervous system, it often enhances the effectiveness of other hands-on work by helping the body feel safe enough to let go.

Our intention is always to support the whole person — body, mind, and nervous system — not just the symptoms.

Is CranioSacral Therapy Right for You?

CranioSacral Therapy may be a good fit if you:

  • Feel overwhelmed, burned out, or constantly “on”

  • Are sensitive to deeper pressure

  • Want a gentle yet powerful approach to healing

  • Are dealing with stress-related or nervous-system-driven symptoms

  • Want to feel more grounded and regulated in your body

If you’re unsure which modality is best for you, we’re happy to help you decide.