CST BioMechanics 2: Cranium

This sixteen hour in depth, experiential course introduces Craniosacral Therapy through its history and philosophy, along with an emphasis on foundational anatomy and physiology for the cranium, brain and the supporting environment of craniosacral system. Demonstration and therapeutic practical application of biomechanical techniques address cranial bones and their interosseous sutures, intracranial membranes, connective tissue fascia and cerebrospinal fluid. Techniques will utilize basic osteopathic principles pioneered by Dr. William Sutherland and introduced to therapists by Dr. John Upledger. In addition, this course teaches exercises in mindful attention, with the goal of understanding embryological central nervous system patterns that provide the template for growth, health and balance. Discovering palpable disturbances in core health patterns enable the therapist to identify root causes of CNS dysfunction that arise through injury, trauma imprints, genetics, disease and other causes. Gentle, supportive Craniosacral Therapy techniques for the cranial bones, sutures, intracranial membranes and brain are then introduced and practiced to dissipate trauma imprints and pain while supporting efficient function. Therapists will gain a foundational understanding of the history, philosophy, anatomy and physiology of the craniosacral system, utilizing this knowledge to practice a systematic, experiential approach to evaluate the craniosacral rhythm, its’ overall health, restrictions and effects throughout the body. Therapists will develop listening skills to achieve autonomic connection while performing techniques to assess and treat the midline, heart as parasympathetic regulator, thorax and cranial diaphragms, cerebrospinal flow, atlas-occipital joint, frontal, parietal, sphenoid, temporal bones, their associated intracranial membranes, the sphenobasilar synchondrosis and mandible. Integration of techniques into existing practice will be discussed throughout the class.

1. Discover the history and treatment philosophy of craniosacral therapy

2. Name anatomy and physiology of the craniosacral system

3. Palpate the craniosacral rhythm (CSR) at seven different areas of the body

4. Locate, evaluate and document CSR restrictions that cause dysfunction

5. Develop mindful perception of the central nervous system through awareness exercises

6. Discover fascia anatomy and physiology–embryonic origins to adult function

7. Discover and perform fascial diaphragm release for thorax, atlas-occipital, cranium

8. Discover and perform cerebrospinal fluid release technique

9. Name cranial bones, intracranial membranes, and therapy landmarks

10. Name brain anatomy and physiology

11. Discover and perform energy induction technique

12. Discover and perform frontal bone release techniques

13. Discover and perform parietal bone release techniques

14. Discover and perform sphenobasilar release techniques

15.Discover and perform three temporal release techniques

16. Discover and perform mandible release techniques

17. Discover and perform CV-4 stillpoint induction technique

18. Integrate craniosacral therapy into existing practice