Core Principles of CST

What is the CranioSacral System?

The craniosacral system is like an internal river that flows gently around your brain and spinal cord, protecting and nourishing one of the most delicate and vital parts of your body—your central nervous system.

This system is wrapped in a durable, watertight covering called the dura mater, which acts like a protective sheath. Inside this sheath flows cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), a clear, rhythmic tide that cushions your brain, removes waste, and delivers essential nutrients—much like a carefully regulated stream that keeps the environment clean, balanced, and thriving.

Your brain and nerves rely on this fluid to stay healthy and communicate properly with the rest of your body. But just like any flowing system, blockages or restrictions can disrupt its rhythm and lead to tension, discomfort, or dysfunction.

Craniosacral Therapy gently supports the natural movement of this fluid, helping the body unwind areas of deep-held tension—almost like clearing a logjam in a stream so everything can flow freely again. The result? A calmer nervous system, greater ease in the body, and a deeper sense of well-being.

How Does Craniosacral Therapy Work?

Craniosacral Therapy (CST) is based on the healing power of gentle, intentional touch. Rather than using pressure or force, CST practitioners use a very light touch—no more than the weight of a nickel, or the soft landing of a butterfly on your skin. This allows the body to remain relaxed and open, rather than tightening up in defense.

When we meet the body with this kind of quiet, respectful contact, it invites the body to speak. Through this stillness and presence, the practitioner can tune in to the subtle rhythms and movements beneath the surface—like feeling gentle tides within the tissues.

With this kind of touch, we can sense the shape and movement of muscles, bones, joints, and organs. We can feel how different parts of the body relate to each other, where fluid is flowing freely, and where it may be restricted. Even imbalances in the body’s energy field can sometimes be perceived through this quiet listening.

CST doesn’t force change. Instead, it listens deeply—helping the body become aware of where it’s holding tension or out of balance, and gently supporting it to unwind and return to a more natural state of ease.

When Craniosacral Therapy May Not Be Appropriate

Craniosacral Therapy is a gentle and non-invasive approach, but there are certain medical conditions where it may not be safe or recommended—especially those involving pressure or fluid flow in and around the brain and spinal cord.

Because CST works with the rhythm and movement of cerebrospinal fluid, it’s important to avoid treatment when there are serious concerns involving the brain or spine. These may include:

• Increased pressure inside the skull

• Recent stroke or traumatic brain injury

• A brain aneurysm (unless cleared by your doctor for physical therapy)

• Active bleeding in the brain

• A condition where part of the brainstem (medulla oblongata) is being pushed out of place

• A recent skull fracture

• A cerebrospinal fluid leak

• Spina bifida (a spinal cord birth condition)

• Arnold-Chiari malformation (a structural issue at the base of the brain)

If you have any of these conditions or something similar, it’s essential to speak with your healthcare provider before beginning CST. We’re always happy to work in partnership with your medical team to ensure your safety and well-being.