Craniosacral massage therapy is an advanced technique that focuses on the 22 bones of the human head, the spinal vertebrae and the sacrum. It evolved from cranial osteopathy, an osteopathic specialization developed by Dr. William G. Sutherland in the 1930s. While massage schools may touch on theories of craniosacral work during basic classes, specialized education is necessary to become certified in this form of massage therapy.
Understanding Craniosacral Massage
Craniosacral therapy has its roots in osteopathy, a medical specialty focused on bone setting. Using a very light touch, practitioners release restrictions within the craniosacral system of the body, a network comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Craniosacral massage can be helpful in treating medical conditions ranging from scoliosis to chronic fatigue and post-traumatic stress disorder. Some people also find craniosacral work helpful for personal development.
Do Your Homework
Depending which state you intend to practice in, you may need a massage therapy license or certification. Contact your state and city departments of health to determine what training and licensing requirements are needed in your area. The number of hours of study you must complete to become licensed varies widely, from none at all in some places to over 1,000 hours in others. Additionally, some craniosacral training institutes require massage schooling as a prerequisite.
Finding a School
Once you've determined your local licensing requirements, it's time to decide which school of craniosacral therapy suits you best. Different schools bring varying slants to the work. Some schools, such as the Milne Institute in Big Sur, California, take more of a personal growth approach, focusing on energetic aspects of massage. The well-known Upledger Institute takes a more bio-mechanical approach to the work, training practitioners to release restrictions in the craniosacral system to improve neurological functioning.
Member Comments