What is Craniosacral Therapy?

The name Craniosacral Therapy refers to the nervous system extending between the cranium and the sacrum. This gentle yet profound technique was developed by William Garner Sutherland, PhD, and a group of osteopaths in the U.S.A. during the mid-20th century. It was discovered that the sutures between the different cranial bones do not fuse over a lifetime, as was previously believed; instead, they remain flexible and can be manipulated through pressure. A new physiological rhythm was also identified (the craniosacral rhythm), originating in the autonomic nervous system (ANS). This rhythm affects our well-being as well as the body’s levels of stress and relaxation. Dr. Sutherland developed techniques to correct the cranial bones and craniosacral rhythm to address stress-related symptoms and conditions caused by imbalances in the nervous system.

Under normal circumstances, a healthy nervous system can withstand significant stress. However, in cases of severe shock or trauma—whether physical or emotional—or prolonged stress, the nervous system can become locked in a chronic alarm state. This lock-in is physical but can cause a variety of symptoms and conditions, both physical, mental, and emotional. By correcting and releasing tension in the structures surrounding the nervous system, Craniosacral Therapy can resolve this lock-in.

What can be treated?

Craniosacral Therapy is highly effective in treating stress and back and neck problems. All types of trauma—physical, mental, or emotional—can create imbalances in the nervous system, which in turn cause a variety of symptoms and conditions, such as:

Back pain, neck and shoulder pain, migraines, tension in the teeth and jaw, asthma, allergies, sleep problems, PMS, recurrent infections, heartburn, constipation, digestive issues, concentration difficulties, addiction, depression, anxiety, burnout, menstrual pain, eating disorders, etc. Craniosacral Therapy has also been shown to help with conditions such as ADHD, autism, and stroke. It is also effective in alleviating physical trauma to the head, neck, and back, such as whiplash injuries.

Craniosacral Therapy balances the hormonal system, strengthens the immune system, stimulates digestion, and enhances concentration and learning ability. The treatment improves posture and energy levels and increases the circulation of spinal fluid, aiding in nutrient absorption and detoxification.

How does a treatment session work? 

During the first treatment session, a review of the patient’s medical history is conducted. A physical examination may also be performed. During the treatment, the patient lies on their back on the treatment table, fully clothed. The therapist connects with the nervous system through light touch on specific structures of the head, spine, and pelvis. Using specific and gentle techniques, the skeletal structure is adjusted, muscles are relaxed, and the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord are released from tension. Throughout the treatment, the patient experiences a deep and pleasant relaxation. At the end of the session, the therapist restores the craniosacral rhythm to its full potential to eliminate stress and depression while stimulating the body's self-healing abilities.

Once the nervous system has been adjusted and restored to its natural state of health and balance, the body's self-healing processes take over to continue healing the damaged structures and functions. In cases where the injury is severe and/or the trauma occurred long ago, a temporary worsening of the general condition may be experienced as the nervous system utilizes all the body's resources to focus on the healing process. The patient may feel extreme fatigue, temporary pain and discomfort as muscles release tension, and emotions or memories may surface. These are all signs that the treatment is working, and it is recommended to allow time for rest and recovery. All holistic therapies require personal responsibility and commitment to the healing process. It is essential to provide the body with the support and time needed to heal injuries and traumas that, in some cases, have been present for a lifetime. Seeking a quick fix for a lifelong issue can prolong the healing process.

Even after a single treatment, a sense of inner calm and focus may arise, and the nervous system will continue to adjust itself for up to 48 hours after the session. Coffee, cigarettes, alcohol, and other external stimulants should be avoided during this time to allow the body’s natural processes to function optimally. One session can lead to significant improvements, but to stabilize the effects, a minimum of 2–5 sessions is recommended, and sometimes more. Everyone reacts differently to treatment and requires varying amounts of time for healing. In some cases, healing in one area may reveal another underlying issue. Regular treatments over a longer period may be necessary, especially when dealing with emotional traumas. Anyone can benefit from regular nervous system adjustments to reconnect with their unlimited energy reserves.

Craniosacral Therapy originates from osteopathy and treats the nervous system and what is known as physiological stress. Pain, physical or psychological trauma, and/or constant stress can limit the body's vitality and self-healing ability. This can create physical restrictions in the structures surrounding the nervous system. These restrictions may, in turn, impair the function of cranial nerves, which regulate the autonomic, self-regulating nervous system. Craniosacral Therapy dissolves tension and blockages through gentle corrections of the affected areas. The light touch used during the treatment creates a sense of security and deep relaxation.

Physiological stress

Many researchers today believe that physiological stress is the root cause of nearly all diseases and stress-related symptoms. In cases of physiological stress, the body's alarm system becomes stuck in a continuous emergency state, keeping the individual in a constant fight-or-flight mode. This survival strategy is designed to handle acute situations by directing most of the body's resources toward either fighting or fleeing. Craniosacral Therapy treats physiological stress by neutralizing the emergency signals, allowing the body and mind to return to a balanced state where self-healing and recovery can occur. When the nervous system is balanced, the brain also calms down, making it easier to perceive life objectively, find solutions to problems, and make well-informed decisions. For many, this marks the beginning of a process in which they regain control over their lives and make significant changes to better meet their needs and aspirations.

During physiological stress, many vital functions, including digestion and recovery, are limited. There is rapid cell growth but no repair of faulty cells, which may contribute to cancer cell development. Prolonged stress triggers the stress hormone cortisol, which stores fat in the abdomen and may influence obesity more than an unhealthy diet. The fight-or-flight response also affects cognitive abilities. A person may believe they are awake and conscious, but their brain operates on autopilot, lacking the ability to make long-term, well-considered decisions. Because the body continuously burns resources in fight-or-flight mode, the brain’s reward center craves quick carbohydrates, sugar, and anything that provides a rush—whether shopping, alcohol, gambling, or any other addiction. This escapist behavior causes individuals to seek refuge in virtual realities like mobile phones, computers, and video games rather than being present in their daily lives.

When all resources are depleted, and the individual collapses under the pressure of constant survival struggles, the fight-or-flight state may shift into burnout depression. This condition is the body's attempt to restore balance by demanding rest and recovery. However, this state is also stressful because no activity occurs, and no resources are available. The psyche perceives this as a loss of all vital elements, and the path to recovery can be long. Even though the individual is no longer fighting but has given up, this state is still a form of physiological stress.

60 min 1300 SEK / 80 min 1650 SEK