Health & Wellness

What Is Craniosacral Therapy?

September 17, 2025

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I devour health and wellness information, and love to share everything that works in my life, so you can use the same self care and lessons in yours!
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Have you ever thought to yourself: “I’ve tried everything for my stress, migraines, or that constant tension in my body… but nothing seems to stick.” You’re not alone.

And if you’ve been down the Google rabbit hole typing “craniosacral therapy near me” (without fully knowing what it is), you’re definitely in the right place.

Trust me, there are plenty of people who have never heard of it, or are just discovering it. 

Let’s talk about what craniosacral therapy actually is, how it works, why people swear by it, and—most importantly—how it might just help you finally feel that sense of calm, relief, and balance your body has been craving.

What Is Craniosacral Therapy and How Does It Work?

Think of craniosacral therapy (CST) as the most gentle reset button your body didn’t know it needed.

Understanding the Craniosacral System

At its core, CST is a light-touch, hands-on therapy that focuses on the craniosacral system—a fancy way of saying the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround your brain and spinal cord.

Why does this matter? Because your craniosacral system is deeply connected to your nervous system (the master control center for your entire body).

How Gentle Touch Supports Your Nervous System

Craniosacral therapy works by using a soft touch—about the weight of a nickel!—to gently release restrictions around the craniosacral system. That release allows your nervous system to shift from “fight or flight” (stress mode) into “rest and restore” (healing mode).

What to Expect in a Craniosacral Therapy Session

Step-by-Step: Your First Appointment

  1. You’ll lie fully clothed on a massage table.
  2. Your practitioner will use a very light touch—often holding points at your head, neck, back, or sacrum.
  3. You may feel deep relaxation, warmth, subtle movement, or even emotional release. Some people drift into a dreamlike state.
  4. Sessions usually last 45–75 minutes.

Common Sensations and Experiences During CST

Some people feel physical release, others feel emotional shifts, and some just feel lighter and calmer. Even if you don’t feel dramatic changes during the session, your body is still recalibrating.

Benefits of Craniosacral Therapy

Let’s be real: we live in a go-go-go world. Our bodies rarely get the memo to slow down. That’s why so many people turn to CST—it works on a deep level over time without forcing the body.

Craniosacral for Stress Relief

CST helps your nervous system shift out of overdrive, leaving you calmer and more centered.

Craniosacral for Migraines and Headaches

Many people find CST reduces the frequency and intensity of headaches. (Craniosacral for migraines is one of the top reasons clients book sessions.)

Craniosacral for Anxiety and Emotional Balance

By soothing the nervous system, CST can help you feel more grounded and less overwhelmed.

Other Benefits of CST for Pain, Sleep, and Wellness

  • Improved sleep
  • Relief from chronic pain
  • Support for emotional release
  • Better overall mind-body balance

Who Can Benefit From Craniosacral Therapy?

Is It Safe for Everyone?

Yes! CST is safe for most people—including children, seniors, and even pregnant women.

Signs You May Benefit From CST

  • Frequent headaches or migraines
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Chronic stress or anxiety
  • Emotional heaviness or feeling “stuck”

Myths and Misconceptions About Craniosacral Therapy

“It’s just a head massage.”
Nope. CST involves the entire craniosacral system, from skull to sacrum.

“It’s too gentle to do anything.”
Subtle shifts often create the most powerful healing responses.

“I won’t feel anything.”
Everyone experiences CST differently, but your body is always responding on some level.

What to Expect After a Craniosacral Therapy Session

After CST, you might feel:

  • Deeply relaxed
  • Sleepy or energized
  • Lighter in your body
  • More emotionally balanced

Sometimes, your body continues to release tension for 24–48 hours.

How Many Craniosacral Sessions Do You Need?

Some people notice a shift after one session. Others benefit most from a series (like weekly sessions for a month). Your practitioner will recommend what’s best for your body.

How to Find Craniosacral Therapy Near Me

If you’ve made it this far, you might be wondering, “Okay, where do I find craniosacral therapy near me?”

Tips for Choosing the Right Practitioner

  • Search professional directories (like Upledger Institute).
  • Look for someone experienced with your concerns (stress, migraines, anxiety).
  • Trust your intuition—you want to feel safe and comfortable.

Questions to Ask Before Booking

  • What’s your training background?
  • How many sessions do clients usually need?
  • Do you specialize in stress, migraines, or anxiety?

And if you’re local to Lincoln, Nebraska, I can support you personally. Woo hoo! 

So is Craniosacral Therapy Right for You?

Craniosacral therapy isn’t about forcing your body into healing—it’s about giving your body the gentle support it needs to restore balance.

So whether you’re dealing with stress, migraines, anxiety, or just that feeling of being “off,” CST offers a natural, powerful path back to yourself.

✨ Ready to experience the benefits of craniosacral therapy for yourself?

Frequently Asked Questions About Craniosacral Therapy

Does craniosacral therapy help with anxiety?

Yes! Craniosacral therapy works directly with the nervous system, which is often overstimulated in people with anxiety. By helping your body shift into a calmer “rest and restore” state, CST can reduce feelings of anxiety and promote deep relaxation.

Can craniosacral therapy help migraines?

Many people find that craniosacral therapy reduces the frequency and intensity of migraines. Gentle release around the head, neck, and spine may ease restrictions that contribute to headaches.

Is craniosacral therapy safe?

CST is a very gentle and non-invasive therapy, making it safe for most people—including children, seniors, and pregnant women. If you have a specific medical condition, always check with your healthcare provider first.

How many craniosacral sessions do I need?

Everyone is different. Some clients feel a big shift after just one session, while others benefit most from a series of sessions (like weekly or bi-weekly appointments). Your practitioner can recommend a plan that fits your needs. In fact, often people continue therapy regularly as part of their wellness routine. 

What does craniosacral therapy feel like?

Most people describe CST as deeply relaxing. You may feel gentle pressure, warmth, tingling, or subtle movement. Some clients even drift into a meditative or dreamlike state during the session.

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