Craniosacral Therapy
Craniosacral work is a gentle, non-invasive therapy that aims to enhance the body's own healing capabilities. By releasing tension along the craniosacral system, we normalize the free flow of cerebrospinal fluid through the central nervous system.
This hands on approach dates back to the Civil War era and was created by a student of the founder of osteopathy in the 1800s.
Craniosacral theory believes that compression on the cranium, spine and sacrum causes constriction to the flow of cerebrospinal fluid and uses soft touch and energy work to examine membranes and movement around the central nervous system for compression or restrictions.
Craniosacral Benefits
Relieves Head &
Poll Tension
Unfortunately, most horses have experienced head and poll trauma at some part of their life - from pulling back while tied, to ill-fitting bit and bridles, to pressure caused by training aids. Craniosacral therapy helps relieve this accumulated tension at the head and poll.
Relieves Spinal &
Pelvic Tension
Many horse owners are familiar with SI pain in their horses. Numerous horses are subject to training too young before their bones are properly developed, ill-fitting saddles and over/improper training. All of these and more can cause strain along their spine and sacrum. CST relieves this spinal and pelvic compression.
Deep Relaxation
Similar to myofascial release, the soft touch of craniosacral therapy is incredibly soothing and allows the crankiest of horses to relax. Unlike MFR, craniosacral doesn't focus on painful trigger points and offers deep relaxation and releases to the horse.
Releases Trapped Emotions
While manual therapies can 'get in there' and break up adhesions, I believe true release comes from the horse itself in a relaxed state. It is not uncommon for a horse to get cranky, and even offer signs of aggression, as their body remembers a trapped emotion at the site before it can release. Energy work from craniosacral can help facilitate and assist the horse's release.