CST involves gentle palpation and manipulation of the skull, sacrum and other structures that relate to the central nervous system. There are 22 bones that form the face and skull. Each of these is joined at a firm, zipper like, joint called a suture joint. And just as with any other joint in the body, misplaced tension, pressure or injury can cause pain and dysfunction in these joints and the entire system.
There are varying schools of CST. Some are very grounded in tissues, bones and fluid systems. Others are based upon more energetic dynamics. All emphasize concepts of energy, harmony, balance, rhythm and flow. Therapists work within a rhythm in the fluid, called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which nourishes and protects the brain and spinal cord. CSF filters out of special capillaries inside specialized cavities within the brain, called ventricles. It then flows through its own series of channels before being reabsorbed into the return side of the blood stream. It has been said that this rhythm moves about 8-11 times each minute. A well-trained therapist is able to feel the energy and/or mechanics of this rhythm by focusing on parts of the body that are influenced by this constant rhythm of CSF filtration and reuptake. By releasing restrictions in the body that impede the flow, the therapist facilitates the full functioning of a client’s healing abilities as well as addresses specific mechanical disadvantages in the structure of the cranial vault and spine. CST is deeply relaxing and energizing, It can act as a powerful tool for increasing mind-body awareness and gaining broader insight to chronic pain syndromes and nervous system disorders.
