Acupuncture Meridians & Fascial Lines
The picture shows the fascial plane of the superficial back line (SBL) which corresponds closely to the UB meridian.
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This image is based on extensive research into fascia, as presented by Tom Myers in his book Anatomy Trains. His research is based in Western science, anatomy, and dissection of cadavers.
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Through understanding current findings on the fascia and their lines of connection, we can gain a deeper insight into the meridians and the effects of acupuncture.
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Acupuncture points on the UB meridian (SBL) on the legs and around the ankle can treat conditions like lumbar pain, neck pain, and occipital headaches. Points like UB 40, UB 57, and UB 60 are commonly used for treating these conditions.
This image reveals a direct Western anatomical basis for comprehending how UB points on the legs can benefit the back, neck and occipital region.
Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy
The calming, healing, and restorative effects of Cranial Sacral Therapy (CST) are widely recognized around the world. Many doctors and health care professionals including osteopaths, psychiatrists, chiropractors, acupuncturists, nurses, and massage therapists are using CST in their practices.
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A favorite technique among patients and clients is the occipital hold, watch the video below to learn how to do it.
Benefits of Learning Biodynamic Cranial sacral Therapy
Our courses on Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy (BCST) are of the highest quality and include hands on video demonstrations, 3D anatomical animations, and everything you need to learn BCST from home. Our courses are also approved by the NCBTMB.
If you are looking for powerful ways to offer your clients relief from stress, anxiety, and pain CST provides an easy to learn system for hands on healing. Our classes are designed for both beginners and professionals and provide a lifelong resource for learning.
Check out the videos and class descriptions below.
Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy - Course 1 - Foundations
A Comprehensive Introduction to Craniosacral Therapy:
The class covers the foundations of craniosacral therapy, the unique aspects of the Biodynamic Model, and is 6 hours in length.
You will learn:
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Cranial Vault Holds
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Sacral Movement Patterns
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Stillpoints
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Diaphragm Holds
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The Mid and Long Tides
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Sphenobasilar Joint Movements
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Traction and Disengagement
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And much more
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The Greater Vault Hold/Sutherlands Hold
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The Greater Vault Hold, otherwise known as Sutherlands hold, is a fundamental hold in CST. In this hold the index finger touches the greater wings on the sphenoid, the middle fingers are placed over the zygomatic processes, and the ring fingers are place on the mastoid processes.
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For any hold in CST it is essential that the therapist hands are relaxed and that the therapist remains in their central fulcrum.
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The practice of being aware of a vast field is also a key practice that allows for conscious expansion and heightened sensitivity.
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As you keep you hands on the client learn to feel for flexion or expansion occurring within the hold. The length of the flexion phase will vary between people. You will also learn to feel the contraction phase which is called extension.
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The Occipital Cradle
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This is a favorite hold among therapists and clients. The hands are placed underneath the clients head to create a cradle. When doing this hold be careful to not let their head sit on the bones of your thumb, this will create discomfort for your client. As you do this hold stay in a large field of awareness to get a sense of what is happening.
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Listen for the cranial rhythmic impulse, which is usually about 8 - 14 times a minute. This is a movement that results from the flexion and extension phases.
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When doing this hold count repeatedly from 1 - 3, this can help you to listen more deeply and become sensitive to the cranial sacral impulse.
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The videos in our class explain in detail how to do each hold, and the visual displays in the video will help to ensure that you do it correctly.
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Getting to the Essence of Craniosacral Therapy
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While the holds used in craniosacral therapy provide a physical foundation for the work, it is essential to understand the deeper aspects of CST. Physically, we can speak about homeostasis, which is a natural function of the body to stay in a state of balance. All of the systems of the body including the nervous system, heart, hormones, and craniosacral system work together to maintain balance or homeostasis. This natural balance can be disrupted by stress, disease, trauma, negative emotions, and mental suffering. While the body wants to maintain balance, it can be taken out of balance due to these factors, and CST can play a role in resetting the nervous system to return to a more healthy and balanced state.
Traditionally, CST speaks of having effects on the rhythm of the craniosacral fluid (CSF) and cranial bones; however, we can also understand this through its effects on the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and the fight-or-flight responses. When we are stressed, it activates the sympathetic nervous system and adrenaline like activities in the body. Over time, this can cause numerous kinds of health problems including heart disease, insomnia, digestive problems, and other disorders. One way that CST creates balance in the body is through decreasing the stress response, and helping people to relax and restore balance in the ANS.
The body has an innate intelligence to maintain balance and homeostasis, and similarly, we can describe an Intelligence that maintains balance and harmony on the energetic and spiritual levels. In CST, we can describe this as the Inherent Treatment Protocol or Inherent Treatment Plan. This describes how healing can occur from the Breath of Life, or from the place of profound stillness and divinity within our Being or Soul.
When a client can access this deep state of Being, spiritual and energetic healing can occur. There is a Divine Ordering Principle beneath the surface of the physical body and its rhythms. When we work with intention and try to make adjustments in the client’s craniosacral rhythms, we are working at the physical and mental levels. However, when the therapist can quiet their mind and allow the Intelligence of the patient’s Being to guide the healing process, then the Divine Ordering Principle can restore balance and homeostasis on the energetic and spiritual levels.
With CST there is a natural progression of using cranial holds, techniques, and subtle pressure to restore balance. At more advanced levels, the physical practices and rhythms become secondary to accessing the innate Intelligence, Breath of Life, and Long-Tide. To access these more subtle states requires the therapist to quiet their mind and let go of any desire or intention to heal the client. This also requires letting go of the ego and belief that it is the therapist that is doing something. Rather, when the therapist can access their own Deep Being and maintain Presence with the client, it will assist the patient in entering the flow of their Spiritual Being. This process is what is referred to as the Inherent Treatment Plan.
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Course 2 - The Hard Palate & Advanced Technqiues
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This course dives more deeply into the Biodynamic model of Craniosacral Therapy. In it you will learn:
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A Centering Meditation
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Sphenobasilar Junction Movement Review
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Frontal Bone Hold and Dynamics
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Orbital Hold
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Frontal Nasal Bone Hold
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Sphenoid Maxillae Hold and Dynamics
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Sphenoid Vomer Hold and Dynamics
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Sphenoid Palatine Maxilla Dynamics
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lnterpalatine Hold and Dynamics
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Palatine and Zygoma Hold and Dynamics
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Advanced Craniosacral Techniques:
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One of the holds taught in the second class is the orbital hold or maxilla hold. In this hold the thumbs are placed in the middle of the forehead at the third eye. The thumb pressure should be very gentle. Your hands will be placed on the top of the cheeks so that the index and middle fingers are placed in the region where the maxilla meets the sphenoid and zygomatic arch.
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When doing holds it is vital to maintain your center, midline, and heart center. Stay within the awareness of perceiving the expanded field and tune into the subtle feelings from the clients. You may feel and sense warmth or expansion coming from the client.
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The Temporomandibular Joint - Course 3
This course presents a series of advanced cranial sacral holds, and teaches the practitioner how to use these holds to effectively address temporomandibular issues, while also moving more deeply into conversation with the cranial sacral system. This class assumes familiarity with our Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy: Volume 1 and Volume 2.
When working with TMJ remember to think and feel globally, as in the larger field of the whole person. As you hold, wait for a release, softening, or heat to arise within the client. When a release occurs feel for a return to balance. Stay in your center and midline as you get a sense of how their jaw is moving. Did it move to the right or left? Where did the release occur from?
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When the softening and release occur, and after you wait for a balance to return, press slightly down and anterior so that the jaw moves toward the feet. This should be a very light movement which can assist with further release and softening.
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As many people hold emotional tension in their jaw, CST can be a great way to release deeply held emotions. The jaw and head are one of five major areas where people hold emotional tension. This may relate to anger, grief, or holding in their inner voice. Learning to release the temporomandibular joint with CST is a powerful somatic therapy.
Advanced Craniosacral Therapy Techniques for TMJ:
The course covers Biodynamic Craniosacral techniques for dealing with temporomandibular joint dysfunction. You will learn:
A review of the previous material that is the foundation to effective TMJ work.
Anatomy and the motions of the bones that are integral in an effective approach to the condition.
The Mandible Hold
TMJ V-Spread
Sphenomandibular Hold
Stylomandibular Hold
Hyoid Bone Holds
And much more
Course 4 - Vertebral Dynamics
This volume focuses on the spine and vertebral dynamics. We will look at how many of the issues that arise within the system can originate from and be expressed through patterns in the vertebrae. The class will pay particular attention to the Primal Midline, how forces and fulcrums are organized around this midline, and how we can use some specific techniques including the direction of tide and disengagements to have a conversation with these forces. This work assumes familiarity with our Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy Course #1.
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Working in the cervical vertebrae is essential to balancing the spine. When working with cervical vertebrae we also teach about the occipital triad and alantooccipital joint. Advanced sacral techniques are also taught for deep transformation.
Imagery, transformation, and stillness are all inherent in BCST and allows for the right space for healing to occur. In stillness is peace, and when we guide our clients to this space their nervous systems can relax and activate parasympathetic responses.
Within stillness, suppressed emotions can also arise and this helps to facilitate greater awareness on many levels.
As the spine is the central channel of the body, the techniques taught in our level four class have the potential to take your clients to a profound level of healing.
Get the Classes Today
Course 1 - Foundations of CST - $249
Course 2 - The Hard Palate - $175
Course 3 - CST for TMJ - $97
Course 4 - Vertebral Dynamics - $195
Get them all and save 10%
More Information About Craniosacral Therapy
At the Integrative Healing Society, we are passionate about offering transformative educational experiences that empower individuals to tap into their natural healing abilities. Our cranial sacral therapy classes provide a deep dive into the principles and techniques behind this healing practice, giving you the skills to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
Led by experienced instructors who are experts in the field, our classes combine theory with hands-on practice, ensuring you gain a thorough understanding of cranial sacral therapy. Whether you're a healthcare professional looking to expand your skill set or simply a wellness enthusiast, our classes are designed to meet your needs.
Unlock the power of healing with cranial sacral therapy. Enroll in our classes today and embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation.
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Additional Benefits of Cranial Sacral Therapy
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Cranial sacral therapy offers a wide range of benefits for individuals seeking holistic healing. Some of the key benefits include:
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1. Relief from physical pain and discomfort: Cranial sacral therapy can help alleviate a variety of physical conditions, including migraines, chronic pain, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, and fibromyalgia.
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2. Improved mental and emotional well-being: By releasing tension and promoting relaxation, cranial sacral therapy can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. It can also enhance mental clarity and promote a sense of overall well-being.
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3. Enhanced immune function: By improving the flow of cerebrospinal fluid and balancing the body's energy, cranial sacral therapy supports the immune system, helping the body to better defend against illness and disease.
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4. Support for the body's natural healing process: Cranial sacral therapy stimulates the body's inherent healing mechanisms, allowing for faster recovery from injuries and surgeries.
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5. Regulation of the autonomic nervous system (ANS): The ANS is involved in regulating the organs and glands in our bodies. While stress places strain on our body via the sympathetic nervous system, CST helps to induce parasympathetic responses that have calming, healing, and restorative effects. This can translate into benefits for the cardiovascular system, digestive functions, and more.
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Overview of Cranial Sacral Therapy Classes
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Now that you're familiar with the benefits of cranial sacral therapy, let's explore what our comprehensive classes have to offer. Our cranial sacral therapy classes are designed to provide you with a solid foundation in this healing modality, whether you're a healthcare professional looking to expand your skill set or simply a wellness enthusiast interested in personal growth. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including the history and principles of cranial sacral therapy, anatomy and physiology, assessment techniques, treatment protocols, and ethical considerations.
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Types of Cranial Sacral Therapy Classes
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We offer a variety of cranial sacral therapy classes to cater to different needs and interests. Whether you're new to cranial sacral therapy or looking to deepen your knowledge and skills, we have the right class for you. Here are some of the types of classes we offer:
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1. Introductory classes: Perfect for beginners, our introductory classes provide a comprehensive overview of cranial sacral therapy, including its principles, techniques, and applications. These classes are a great starting point for those who want to explore cranial sacral therapy as a potential career path or personal healing practice.
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2. Advanced classes: Designed for experienced practitioners, our advanced classes delve deeper into the intricacies of cranial sacral therapy. These classes focus on specialized techniques, advanced assessment skills, and the integration of cranial sacral therapy with other modalities.
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3. Specialized workshops: In addition to our regular classes, we also offer specialized workshops that focus on specific areas of cranial sacral therapy. Join our newsletter to keep updated on live events, workshops, and more.
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Choosing the right Cranial Sacral Therapy Class for You
With many options available, choosing the right cranial sacral therapy class can feel overwhelming. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:
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1. Your goals and interests: Determine what you hope to achieve through cranial sacral therapy classes. Are you looking to enhance your existing practice, start a new career, or simply deepen your personal healing journey?
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2. Level of experience: Consider your level of experience in cranial sacral therapy. If you're a beginner, introductory classes are a great place to start. If you're already a practitioner, advanced classes or specialized workshops may be more suitable.
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3. Time and availability: Assess your schedule and availability to determine whether you prefer online or in-person classes. Online classes offer flexibility, while in-person classes provide a more immersive and hands-on learning experience.
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4. Accreditation and certification: If you're seeking professional accreditation or certification, ensure that the cranial sacral therapy classes you choose meet the requirements of the relevant governing bodies.