Craniosacral Therapy

Craniosacral Therapy (CST), as it is practiced today, was developed by Dr. John Upledger in the 1970s. He went on to train hundreds of therapists who, through hands-on experience, witnessed its wide-ranging benefits. These included profound effects on the body, mind, and spirit. CST has been used to support trauma survivors, veterans with PTSD, individuals with Parkinson’s disease, those recovering from concussions, and many others seeking balance. Unlike medication or quick fixes, CST offers a gentle invitation for the nervous system to reset, repair, and return to its natural rhythm.

The brain and nervous system thrive on balance, flow, and rest. CST works with the craniosacral system—a subtle rhythm created by the movement of cerebrospinal fluid around the brain and spinal cord. When this flow is supported, the body shifts from chronic “fight-or-flight” into the calmer parasympathetic state, where healing and repair become possible.

Research and client experiences highlight several ways CST can support brain function and serve as a preventative measure for cognitive decline:

Improved Cerebrospinal Fluid Flow

Gentle techniques encourage circulation around the brain and spinal cord, thought to support detoxification, oxygenation, and nourishment of brain tissue.

Reduction in Stress and Inflammation

Chronic stress is a known risk factor for dementia and Alzheimer’s. CST has been shown to reduce the stress response, lower inflammation, and create the conditions for the brain to function more efficiently.

Support for Memory and Focus

Many clients report clearer thinking, better recall, and sharper focus after a series of sessions. For those experiencing “brain fog” or early memory changes, CST can serve as a preventative maintenance program for the mind.

Restoration after Trauma and Injury

From concussion and traumatic brain injury to long-term PTSD, CST has been shown to help restore clarity, calm, and connection.

CST as Preventative Care

While CST does not claim to “cure” Alzheimer’s or dementia, it provides valuable preventative support through care of the nervous system. By reducing stress, enhancing fluid flow, and fostering balance, CST helps maintain conditions that protect and support brain health. Just as exercise and nourishing foods are essential for overall well-being, CST can become part of a preventative wellness plan for the mind.

Ultimately, craniosacral therapy is not about force, but about listening deeply to the rhythms of the body and allowing them to guide the system back to balance. For individuals concerned about memory, clarity, or maintaining brain health with age, CST offers a gentle, safe, and profoundly supportive path.

Joanna Salerno, a licensed massage therapist in Fort Myers, has been practicing CST for more than 20 years, helping clients access the healing potential that resides within the body, mind and spirit. For more information or to book an appointment, visit JoannaSalerno.com