Craniosacral therapy is an alternative therapy that manipulates fluid in the nervous system. Many people who’ve tried it say that they’ve experienced some great benefits. It can make you feel very relaxed, so it’s worth trying.
Are you on the fence about giving Craniosacral therapy (CST) a try? There are several benefits that you’ll want to know about, so make sure to keep reading.
1. Stress Reduction and Relaxation
First, Craniosacral Therapy is a great way to relax. It promotes relaxation through gentle touch targeting your nervous system. The process is very similar to getting a massage, so if that relaxes you, you can enjoy CST.
Many people feel much calmer and less stressed after starting CST. So, it’s a great option if you’re looking for a way to deal with these negative feelings.
Most treatments are one to two weeks apart, so you can receive some relief from your daily stressors, and your body can process them properly.
Overall, most people say they feel calm during their sessions. If you constantly feel stressed, that’s sure to benefit you.
2. Improved Pain Management
Next, craniosacral therapy can help with pain. Patients have said they feel fewer headaches and neck and back pain after starting the treatment. It’s suggested that CST moves your body’s tissue and fluids around your central nervous system, helping to reduce feelings of acute or chronic pain.
Many people with migraines use this therapy for relief. Your craniosacral therapy specialist will place their hands on your head gently using their techniques to relieve pressure and will be able to help you have fewer migraines, less pain from migraines, and can lessen the amount of medication you need to take.
CST may help with fibromyalgia symptoms as well. Some people with fibromyalgia have reported feeling less pain and being able to sleep comfortably.
So, if you’re looking for another way to manage your chronic pain, CST may be an option.
Many people going through CST report improved sleep due to feeling more relaxed. You might fall asleep sooner, stay asleep longer, and feel more rested when you get up.
Due to not being as stressed, you’re sure to get improved sleep, especially on the days that you have a session and days after. By managing your nervous system stress, you’ll be better able to unwind at night and get the rest you need.
Not being as tense during the night can also help you feel more comfortable in bed. So, it might be worth trying CST if you can’t sleep well enough or suffer with insomnia.
4. Increased Bodily Awareness
CST is a great way to learn and become more aware of your body. Many say they feel more in tune with themselves after starting this therapy. You’ll learn to notice subtle pleasant feelings in your body and craniosacral system over time.
With increased body awareness comes improved well-being. You’ll better understand when your body is holding on to stress, allowing you to take a step back and some time to calm down.
5. Help With PTSD
CST can help those inflicted with PTSD recover from emotional trauma. The sessions are very calm and relaxed, and the gentle hands-on touch can help you release tension from your body. It can be a safe space for many people.
Stress can worsen PTSD, so a relaxing session is very beneficial. CST might also help with panic attacks, chronic anxiety, and flashbacks, which are symptoms those with PTSD can suffer from. Working on these symptoms can make trauma easier to manage.
6. Possible Support for Neurological Conditions
You may also receive support for neurological conditions, trigeminal neuralgia, peripheral neuralgia, etc..
When CST makes you feel more relaxed, it releases your muscle tension, helping to reduce the condition.
7. Improved Circulation
Next, CST might help improve circulation and lymphatic drainage in your body. It focuses on optimizing the flow of cerebrospinal fluid throughout your craniosacral system.
CST experts have shown that removing imbalances in the system through touch can improve the overall health of your nervous system and the rest of your body.
8. More Mindfulness
Those completing CST also report feeling much more mindful. You’re encouraged to pay attention to subtle movements and feelings in your body, increasing your body awareness.
However, doing so can also make you more mindful of your emotions and well-being. Working on your mind-body connection is one of the first steps to becoming more aware of your body’s needs, allowing you to make better choices.
You’ll also have a stronger sense of self, which can empower many people.
Lastly, CST uses many of the same practices as somatic therapy and meditation. You’re encouraged to focus on your mind-body connection, relax, and learn more about yourself.
9. Possible Post-Surgery Recovery Assistance
CST is sometimes used with conventional post-surgery therapies to increase their effectiveness. Before trying, you’ll want to ensure you speak with your care team about what would be best for you.
Many people struggle with pain and swelling after surgery. CST can help manage the pain and reduce swelling. Combined with other therapy forms, this might improve your recovery time and outlook.
During these sessions, the therapist will focus on the affected area to improve circulation and release tension. It can also help you feel less stress after surgery, letting your body focus more on healing.
CST May Offer All These Benefits
In conclusion, CST has several benefits, so it’s worth trying. You’ll feel less stressed, more relaxed, have better pain management, and improved sleep.
CST can work well as a complementary therapy, which may boost the effects of other treatments you’re going through.