Craniosacral Fascial Therapy

the gillespie approach

A blend of craniosacral therapy and myofascial release. Dr. Barry Gillespie, the visionary behind this approach, wove together the teachings of two influential mentors – Viola Frymann, DO and John Barnes, PT, into a holistic therapy that honors the concept of flow and the body’s innate ability to heal.

Craniosacral Fascial Therapy

The Roots

Cranial Osteopathy

At the heart of this therapeutic approach lies the influence of Dr. Viola Frymann, a luminary in the world of cranial osteopathy. Directly mentored by Dr. William Sutherland, the discoverer of cranial motion, Dr. Frymann cultivated a deep understanding of the delicate rhythms within the body. Her teachings became the cornerstone of Dr. Gillespie’s journey into cranial work.

Myofascial release

Through the collaboration of Dr. Gillespie with John Barnes, PT in the 1980s, a unique perspective was brought to the table. Barnes’ teachings delved into the body’s fascial system—a continuous, dynamic web of connective tissue that influences every movement and sensation.

restoring flow

As we live life, our bodies can hold on to a lot of stuff. Tension left behind from physical and emotional traumas alike. Tightness in the fascia restricts movement of the brain & body and flow of cerebrospinal fluid, blood, lymph, and vital energy. Craniosacral Fascial Therapy (CFT) works to calm the nervous system and release tensions we’ve piled on over time. By connecting with the body, clearing blocks, and creating space, we lay the foundation for a more open, flowing and nourishing inner environment where our cells can thrive.

“When blood and lymphatics flow freely, the tissues can perform their physiologic functions without impedance. With the occurrence of trauma (physical or emotional), the tissues contract, twist, and compress. The fluid flow becomes obstructed.”

Dr. Andrew Taylor still

Frequently Asked

The craniosacral system includes the structures of the brain, spinal cord, and sacrum that gently pump cerebrospinal fluid – the fluid that nourishes and detoxifies our central nervous system. The brain has an inherent motion that expands and contracts. Craniosacral structures will experience subtle motion in response to this primary respiration, or “breathing brain”.

Fascia is a continuous layered web of connective tissue that surrounds, supports, and interconnects all structures of the body and brain. It is made up of collagen tubules filled with and surrounded by gel-like ground substance that provides fluidity and glide for optimal mobility and function of tissue as well as a peizoelectric effect (the ability to generate an electric charge in response to applied mechanical stress). This means it has the ability to transmit information, acting as a sensory communication highway in the body. The craniosacral system lies within and is connected to the fascial web. Physical trauma, inflammation, poor posture, repetitive movements, and emotional stress can all cause the fascia to become restricted or tight. These restrictions can occur within the craniosacral system itself or may originate from other areas of the body but influence the craniosacral system.

CFT has shown to be beneficial for a wide range of conditions including headaches, migraines, chronic pain, stress-related disorders, birth trauma, TMJ disorders, sleep issues, and many others. It is a versatile therapy that addresses underlying structural imbalances that may be contributing to these conditions.

CFT can also help promote overall wellness and optimize the body’s functioning. By releasing restrictions in the fascial web and improving fluid flow, the therapy supports the body’s natural healing responses, enhances resilience, and helps maintain a state of balance and well-being. Regular sessions can help address subtle dysfunctions before they manifest as more significant issues.

During a session, clients often experience a sense of deep relaxation and subtle sensations within their body. The therapy is typically performed with the client lying fully clothed on a treatment table.

CFT may feel like:

Gentle Touch: 
Light touch is used to assess and facilitate release of strain within the fascial system. The touch is generally gentle, and my hands may rest lightly on different areas of your body, including the head, spine, sacrum, abdomen, arms and legs.

Deep Relaxation:
 Clients often describe feeling deeply relaxed during a session. The gentility of therapy allows the body to enter a state of rest and restoration.

Subtle Sensations:
These sensations can vary from session to session and from person to person but often include gentle movements, warmth or cold, pulsations, pulling or pressure. Some clients may also experience a release of tension or a sense of fluidity within their body.

Emotional Release:
 CFT can sometimes evoke emotional responses as the therapy works holistically on physical, emotional, and energetic levels. Clients may experience moments of clarity or shifts in perception. These emotional responses are a natural and normal part of the release of tensions in the body.

Overall Well-being:
 Many clients report simply feeling a sense of improved well-being following a session. They may experience reduced pain or discomfort, increased mobility, enhanced relaxation, and a calmer, clearer mind.

It’s important to note that each individual’s experience is unique and responses vary. Overall, CFT offers a gentle approach that aims to support the body’s innate ability to self-regulate. It provides a nurturing space for shifts in physical, mental, and emotional well-being to occur.

The number of sessions vary depending on the individual, their history and goals. Some people experience profound improvements after just a few sessions, while others require a bit more time. We can discuss a personalized treatment plan based on your unique situation and goals.

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