Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy

Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy (BCST) is a gentle, hands-on modality that promotes reconnection to the body’s innate, optimal state of health.

Unlike therapies that use pressure to mobilize soft tissue, BCST uses light touch, working on a neurological level to release the tension and stuckness that we hold in our systems physically, mentally and emotionally.

Craniosacral therapists pay particular attention to promoting the flow of cerebrospinal fluid throughout the central nervous system.

The movement of this deeply nourishing substance is facilitated by subtle fluctuations of the dural membrane system, which is a continuous layer of connective tissue that encases the brain and the spinal cord, connecting the cranium to the pelvis in a reciprocal tension system.

The tidal rhythms of the fluid circulating within the dural membrane system can be affected by tissue density in any part of the body (e.g. inflammation, scarring, muscular tension, or stagnant fluids). These imbalances exert a pull on the entire connective tissue matrix of the body. Thus, although it is common for a craniosacral practitioner to place their hands on the head, the spine, or the sacrum (the bony plate at the back of the pelvic bowl), craniosacral touch can be useful at any location of the body.

Bringing attention to an area of injury or density allows the brain to recognize it as a healing priority and update any outdated neurological patterning that may be maintaining a state of pain or disease.

When different nervous systems are in proximity, a synchronization of brain states occurs that is referred to as coregulation. In a craniosacral therapy session, the practitioner offers their regulated nervous system as a support and a guide for the client to entrain into greater regulation. The practitioner cultivates a meditative state that allows the client to enter deeper and slower brain states as well. The experience of deep stillness in the body and mind allows the client’s system to undergo profound healing shifts.

BCST is a great tool for stress-related conditions. It has been used to assist with physical imbalances such as chronic pain, back injuries, headaches, concussions, endocrine problems, IBS, the side effects of cancer treatment, and others. On the emotional level, BCST helps regulate the nervous system and can have a rebalancing effect on anxious or depressive symptoms. Many clients who have experienced trauma benefit from BCST because this type of session provides a container for non-invasive and attuned interpersonal relating, facilitating co-regulation of the nervous system. For those who are spiritually inclined, BCST is form of meditative practice and a way of connecting to something beyond the individual self.