Cranial-Sacral Massage

Service Description

Cranial Sacral Massage is a gentle, noninvasive form of massage that addresses the bones and muscles of the head, spinal column, and sacrum to help reduce stress and pain. It works with the soft tissue structures of the body and the flow of cerebrospinal fluid between the head and the base of the spine. These structures and fluids protect, support, and nourish the brain and spinal cord. During a cranial sacral session, the therapist may move the limbs and ribcage; check the hips and shoulders; and feel the cranium, spine and sacrum to determine where restrictions may be found. A key element of performing cranial sacral is the ability to feel the subtle rhythms, or lack thereof, in the central nervous system as well as the pulses in the body. Therapists identify the characteristics of the cranial rhythmic pulse: the rate, symmetry (side to side), amplitude or “energy” of the pulse. Evaluation of the pulses of the body can be done in the feet, thighs, ASIS joint, sacrum, diaphragm, shoulders and head. In addition to the evaluation of the pulses of the body, another aspect of evaluation in CST is that of the three major diaphragms: The thoracic inlet at the top of the thorax (between C7 and sternoclavicular joints) The respiratory diaphragm (between T12 and L1, L2 and L3) and The pelvic diaphragm (lower lumbar spine and anterior contact just superior to pubic bones). These evaluations allow the therapist to identify where restrictions are located in the body who will then utilize a series of techniques to release them, restoring movement. CST therapists may use gentle fascial traction, “unwinding” techniques, compression and decompression, lifts and still point induction to release restrictions. This is a clothed service. This appointment allows for a full 60 minutes of hands on time along with a 10 min intake and changing period along with a 15 minute set-up/break-down time. To expedite the intake process, please fill out the intake form online sent to you in the appointment confirmation email. After booking, a team member will be in touch with you to confirm if you will be coming to our Richmond Virginia studio or our VA Beach oceanfront mobile spa tent location.