What is CST?
Craniosacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands on method for evaluating and enhancing the function of the Craniosacral System. This system comprises of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protects the brain and spinal cord, and it influences the development and performance of the brain and spinal cord.
How was it developed?
Cranial Osteopathy was originated by physician William Sutherland, D.O. (1873-1954), who
studied under the founder of osteopathy, Andrew Taylor Still, at the first American School of Osteopathy (now A. T. Still University) in 1898-1900. While looking at a disarticulated skull, Sutherland was struck by the idea that the cranial sutures of the temporal bones where they meet the parietal bones were “beveled, like the gills of a fish, indicating articular mobility for a respiratory mechanism.” This idea that the bones of the skull could move was contrary to contemporary anatomical belief.
Upledger developed his own treatment style, and when he started to teach his work to a group of students who were not osteopaths he generated the term ‘CranioSacral therapy’, based on the corresponding movement between cranium and sacrum. Craniosacral therapists often (although not exclusively) work more directly with the emotional and psychological aspects of the patient than osteopaths working in the cranial field. The Upledger Institute, formed in 1987, has many international affiliates united by Upledger’s International Association of Healthcare Practitioners.
What does Craniosacral Therapy do?
The method generally requires only five grams of pressure – the equivalent weight of a nickel – to test for restrictions in various parts of the craniosacral system. Any imbalance or restriction in it could potentially cause sensory, motor or neurological disabilities like motor co-ordination impairments, learning disabilities, dyslexia, behavioral problems and autism.
Does Craniosacral Therapy require any special tools?
Absolutely not. What we need is just our hands.
How often does Craniosacral Therapy need to be done?
Usually Kyoko treats patients weekly basis. For more severe cases, she even treats them twice a week.
Does Craniosacral Therapy hurt?
Some time, patients really complain about discomfort – such as pulling sensation and a bit of pain in the head. This is due to releases of congestions in the craniosacral system.
What results can Craniosacral Therapy produce?
Every individual will experience CST differently and results can be diverse as well. The goal, however, is achieved by helping the body to correct its dysfunction, thus regaining homeostasis, reduced symptoms and improved well being.
Who can benefit from it?
It is suitable for anyone, young and old. Among the medical conditions for which Craniosacral Therapy has shown to be effective are:
- Autism
- Speech Delay
- Learning Difficulties
- Cerebral Palsy
- ADD/ADHD/Hyperactivity
- Migraine/Headaches
- Chronic Neck & Back Pain
- Temporary Mandibular Joint Dysfunction
- Stress and Tension-Related Problems
- Chronic Fatigue
- Tinnitus
- Motor-Coordination Impairments
- Central Nervous System Disorders
- Orthopedic Problems
- Scoliosis
- Infantile Disorders
- Colic
- Traumatic Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries
- Emotional Difficulties
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Post Surgical Dysfunction
- Fibromyalgia and other Connective-Tissue Disorders
What kind of programs are offered for children and adults?
Craniosacral Therapy is available with our founder Kyoko Saeki and our senior therapist Celeste Foo.
Children –
1st assessment (30min) + 8 sessions (30min) = $1000
8 sessions (30min) = $880
Adult –
1st assessment (45min) + 6 sessions (45min) = $1170
6 sessions (45min) = $990
Please do note that we are not able to accept payment by credit card at our center. Payment can be made by cash or paynow/bank transfer. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.
Where did Kyoko undergo her training?
She obtained her certification for CranioSacral Therapy from the Upledger Insitute after finishing Advanced Craniosacral Therapy in 2002. She also has a Bachelor of HealthScience (Complementary Medicine) degree after studying NeuroScience – Physiology of Behavior in 2001.
About Celeste Foo
Celeste obtained her certification for Craniosacral Therapy Techniques in September 2014 followed by certification in Craniosacral Pediatrics in November 2014. Celeste has been practicing Craniosacral Therapy at Healing Gardens under the guidance of founder Kyoko Saeki for more than a decade.