Frequently Asked Questions
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Biodynamic craniosacral therapy (BCST) is a gentle, hands-on healing technique that focuses on the central nervous system and the flow of cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The therapy aims to release tension and restrictions in the body's craniosacral system, which includes the membranes and fluid that protect the brain and spinal cord.
Practitioners use light touch to assess and improve the movement of the craniosacral system, promoting relaxation and encouraging the body’s natural healing processes. This therapy can help alleviate a variety of conditions, including headaches, neck pain, stress, anxiety, and even certain chronic pain syndromes.
Craniosacral therapy is often described as a deeply relaxing experience, allowing clients to connect with their bodies and release stored tension. It is suitable for people of all ages, including infants and the elderly.
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Pain relief: Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy is often used to relieve chronic pain conditions, such as headaches, migraines, neck pain, and back pain.
Stress reduction: By promoting deep relaxation and calming the nervous system, BCST can help reduce stress and anxiety levels.
Improved mobility: It may help with conditions that restrict movement, such as muscle tightness or joint dysfunction.
Enhanced relaxation: Many people report feeling deeply relaxed after a session, which can have a positive effect on overall well-being.
Support for emotional health: Because it works with the nervous system, BCST may assist in processing emotional blockages and promoting emotional release. Clients often feel more connected, with greater awareness of their bodies.
Improved sleep: Some people experience better sleep quality after BCST, likely due to the calming effect on the central nervous system.
Improved circulation: By addressing restrictions in the craniosacral system, BCST may help improve the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, which can support overall health and vitality.
Increased energy levels: Sometimes emotional or physical blockages in the body can drain energy. BCST may help release these blockages, leading to a greater sense of vitality.
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Clients will lie fully clothed on the table and typically sessions will last around one hour. Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy techniques do not involve any manipulation, only gentle holds and a light reverential touch. Therapists are trained to ‘listen’ to the body to perceive subtle movements in the fluids and tissues of the body. They are able to sense areas of restriction and contraction. During the session therapists orientate towards health in the clients system and in doing so help support the bodies innate ability to return to balance.
Clients often report a sense of deep relaxation and a renewed feeling of calm and presence. This can lead to lasting change and benefit in their lives.
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Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy (BCST) is a specific approach within the broader field of craniosacral therapy, and it stands out in several ways due to its unique philosophy and techniques. Here’s what makes it different:
Focus on the body’s inherent self-healing ability: In BCST, there’s a deep emphasis on the body’s natural ability to heal itself. The therapist works with the subtle rhythms and movements in the body, often referred to as the "Primary Respiratory Mechanism" (PRM), which reflects the body's intrinsic life force or healing energy. Rather than "fixing" symptoms, the therapist listens to and supports the body’s own rhythms to facilitate healing.
Gentle and subtle touch: Biodynamic craniosacral therapy is even gentler than traditional CST. The practitioner uses light touch to connect with the body and sense the subtle rhythms and fluctuations within the craniosacral system. This touch is so soft that it’s often described as "barely touching" or "holding space," allowing the body to release tension at its own pace.
Holistic approach: BCST takes a more holistic view of the person. It recognizes not just the physical symptoms, but also the emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of a person’s health. The therapy often works with both the physical body and the energetic aspects, aiming for an overall sense of integration and balance.
Focus on the craniosacral rhythms: While traditional craniosacral therapy focuses on physical restrictions in the craniosacral system, BCST is deeply attuned to the subtle rhythms of the body. Practitioners work with the "still point" (a pause in the craniosacral rhythm) and other fluid dynamics within the body to facilitate healing. This may involve releasing deeply held emotional or energetic patterns that contribute to physical symptoms.
Emphasis on safety and containment: In BCST, a lot of focus is placed on creating a safe, contained space for the client to explore and release deeply held tensions. The therapist remains very present and grounded, providing a sense of safety that allows the client’s body to relax and process without forcing anything.
Healing of trauma and early developmental issues: BCST can be particularly effective for addressing early trauma or imprints from birth and childhood, especially those that are stored in the body at an unconscious level. By working with these deep-rooted issues, it can help release unresolved emotions and stress from early experiences, often leading to profound shifts in emotional and physical well-being.
In essence, what makes Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy unique is its deep sensitivity to the body's rhythms and its focus on fostering the body’s natural self-regulation and healing process in a safe, gentle, and non-invasive way. Many people who seek BCST are looking for a more subtle and intuitive approach that works on a deep, energetic level, and it’s often considered a highly effective form of therapy for those dealing with chronic stress, trauma, or long-standing physical issues.