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Craniosacral therapy, often referred to as CST, is a form of alternative therapy that involves gentle manipulation of the skull to harmonize the natural rhythm of the central nervous system. This therapy, developed by John Upledger in the 1970s, was initially created to alleviate pain in patients with cancer and other illnesses. Experts believe that craniosacral therapy is highly beneficial for the brain and overall body function.
Research from Johns Hopkins University indicates that craniosacral therapy can be particularly effective for individuals with autism, a condition characterized by challenges in social interaction and repetitive behaviors. This therapy is known to help calm symptoms associated with autism, making it a valuable option for alternative autism therapy. In this article, we will explore the benefits of craniosacral therapy for individuals with autism.
The Craniosacral Therapy Approach for Autism
The benefits of craniosacral therapy for autism are rooted in its focus on key areas, including:
- The membrane layers surrounding the brain.
- The movement of fluids, such as blood and cerebrospinal fluid, within the cranium and throughout brain tissue.
- Identifying areas of the body that show abnormal responses to craniosacral rhythm.
By optimizing these functions, craniosacral therapy can address symptoms strongly linked to autism.
The Benefits of Craniosacral Therapy for Individuals with Autism
Recent studies highlight the various benefits of craniosacral therapy for those with autism, including:
Reducing Tension: Craniosacral therapy provides a calming and safe environment for patients through the gentle touch of a skilled therapist. This approach helps relieve tension in individuals with autism, making them feel more comfortable and secure.
Enabling Writing Abilities: Children with autism often struggle with writing due to difficulty relaxing their hands and arms. Craniosacral therapy helps relax muscles, making it easier for them to learn and improve their writing skills.
Improving Language Function: Language function disorders, common in autism, may arise from excessive tension around sensory organs such as the ears and eyes. Regular craniosacral therapy can relieve this tension, enhancing the child’s ability to speak and understand language, leading to better communication and social interaction.
Providing a Meditative Experience: Similar to the benefits of yoga, craniosacral therapy allows both mind and body to relax by reducing stress and tension. Conducted in a quiet and relaxing environment, this therapy provides a meditative experience that helps relieve negative emotions.
Relieving Stress: Individuals with autism spectrum disorder are prone to stress and tension. Craniosacral therapy not only alleviates tension but also promotes relaxation, reducing hyperactivity and, consequently, stress.
Building Trust in Others: Autism often makes it difficult for individuals to trust others due to communication and interaction challenges. Craniosacral therapy, through its hands-on approach, stimulates the release of oxytocin, a hormone that fosters trust and comfort. Over time, individuals with autism may improve their ability to communicate and interact with others by first building trust with their therapist.
Correcting the Nervous System: Developed by John Upledger, craniosacral therapy was designed to improve nervous system function. The therapy’s delicate techniques help decrease abnormal inflammation, tension, and other disruptions in the brain, aiding in nervous system efficiency.
Recommendations for Craniosacral Therapy
Before opting for craniosacral therapy, it’s essential to select a reputable provider with experienced and well-trained therapists, as their role is crucial to the therapy’s success. While craniosacral therapy involves massage, not all massage therapists are qualified to perform it.
Routine is important in therapies like craniosacral therapy. It is recommended that individuals with autism undergo therapy once a week for at least two months, or until their symptoms improve. Each session can last between fifteen minutes and an hour, and unlike other therapies, it is conducted without the need to remove clothing. Successful therapy also requires strong support from the family, who can also provide complementary activities, such as incorporating the health benefits of pets for families.
