What is Craniosacral Therapy?
Craniosacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on approach that works with the craniosacral system — the semi-hydraulic system of membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surrounds and nourishes the brain and spinal cord.
Using very light touch, a trained therapist feels subtle rhythmic movements in the craniosacral system. By gently releasing restrictions in this system, CST can help normalize the environment of the brain and spinal cord and enhance the body's natural healing capacity.
Despite the delicacy of the touch, CST can produce profound effects — often more significant than deeper, more forceful techniques. Many people report experiences of deep relaxation, reduced pain, and improved function after sessions.
Mark completed his CCST (Certified Craniosacral Therapist) certification in 2023, bringing this modality into his already advanced practice alongside structural integration and neuromuscular therapy.
Important to know: You remain fully clothed during craniosacral therapy sessions. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows for some movement. No oils or lotions are used.
Conditions CST helps with:
For the Skeptic
A valid question — how can such light touch produce significant effects?
Craniosacral therapy works with the body's autonomous nervous system — the part of your nervous system that regulates involuntary functions like heart rate, digestion, and stress response. The nervous system responds to input it can barely feel; overwhelming it with force often triggers protective contraction rather than release.
The light touch in CST is a feature, not a limitation. It allows the therapist to feel subtle rhythms and restrictions without adding force that would mask what the body is communicating. Think of it like listening vs. shouting — you can't hear the answer if you're making too much noise.
CST has been studied in research settings for headaches, TMJ dysfunction, and pain management, with positive results. It is practiced internationally by osteopathic physicians, physical therapists, and certified massage practitioners.
Best approach: Book one session and experience it for yourself. Many of the most skeptical first-time clients become CST advocates after their first session.
What to Expect in a CST Session
- Intake discussion — We'll talk through what's bringing you in and any relevant history. This is as important for CST as for any other modality.
- You remain clothed on the table — Wear comfortable, loose clothing. You'll lie face-up on the treatment table.
- Light-touch assessment — Mark will gently contact different areas (feet, sacrum, ribcage, cranium) to feel the craniosacral rhythm and identify where restrictions are present.
- Gentle tissue release — Using sustained light pressure at specific sites, Mark helps the body release restrictions. You may notice warmth, movement, or deep relaxation during this process.
- Still point and integration — The session ends with a period of stillness, allowing the nervous system to integrate the changes.
- Post-session — You may feel deeply relaxed or mildly tired. This is normal. Drink plenty of water and give yourself time to integrate — avoid intense exercise immediately after.