Craniosacral Therapy
Craniosacral Therapy is a gentle, light touch, healing therapy that has its roots in osteopathy.
Craniosacral Therapists work with the craniosacral system, cerebral spinal fluid, and the primary respiratory mechanism – or the breath of life ( – the ’spark’ of life and the gentle rhythmic motion of fluid, membrane and tissues).
The whole body can be affected by imbalances in these mechanisms due to their intricate structure and relationship with the central nervous system.
Adverse life experiences shape patterns in this system and sometimes the body is not capable of dealing with these experiences, storing their effects in the body.
Trauma, e.g. from an accident or surgery, can cause blockages in the delicate balance of the primary respiratory system. This can have wider effects on the health of the body.
Craniosacral Therapy helps to release tissue memories and restore balance to the system. This needs to happen gradually, to enable the client to deal with the releasing and healing effects of the treatment at their own pace.
The subtle motions of fluid and the cranial and sacral bones can be perceived by the therapist through light touch to the head, base of the spine and other ‘listening stations’ in the body e.g. shoulders. Craniosacral Therapists are trained to support the health that exists in the body, rather than find the dysfunction.
Craniosacral therapy can be effective with all types of complex emotional and physical problems.
Alison’s areas of special interest include:
- anxiety and depression
- pain
- managing stress and anxiety
- emotional issues
- headaches
- insomnia
- trauma resolution
References
- Kern, M. (2001) Wisdom in the Body. London, Thorsons.
- Becker, R. E. (1997) Life in Motion. Oregon, Stillness Press.
Massage
Massage therapy is grounded in the study of human anatomy and physiology. Massage of soft tissue can help to realign the body by releasing tensions that have built up over time.
Massage is classed as a holistic therapy: treating the person as a whole. Often, releasing physical tension can help to promote emotional well-being.
The aim of massage therapy is to release tension and re-balance the muscles in the body through the use of different massage techniques. Chronic tension can be a source of pain and discomfort and releasing this tension can provide relief from these symptoms.
The additional benefits of massage are: relaxation, improved sleeping patterns and better immune function.
References
- Holey, E and Cook, E. (1997) Evidence-based Therapeutic Massage: A Practical Guide for Therapists. Churchill Livingstone.
Reiki
Reiki is a form of energy healing that originated in Japan in the early 1900s. It has since spread all over the world and it’s status as a complementary therapy has been strengthened in the UK since it’s introduction by the NHS as part of integrated healthcare provision for certain conditions.
The basis of Reiki as a healing therapy is that all living things are essentially made up of energy. Reiki healing is said to work on a physical, emotional and spiritual level through releasing energy blocks and creating ’shifts’ in energy fields.
Reiki involves the therapist placing hands on different parts of the body and encouraging natural healing to occur through increasing and balancing the flow of universal life force energy in the client.
Regular reiki treatments can boost self-healing patterns and release old energy blocks. It can also relieve aches and pains and relieve symptoms of illness.
Reiki healing in the UK
NHS Directory of Complementary and Alternative Practitioners
References
- Newman, R. B. (2006) Calm Healing: Methods for a New Era of Medicine. Berkely, North Atlantic.
- Gerber, R. (2000) Vibrational Medicine for the 21st Century. London, Piatkus.
