Introduction by Karen Maleck-Whiteley
Recently, Carol and I have been learning a bit more about Eastern medicine and some other modalities that work to balance the energy and functioning of our bodies. This month, our guest author is a wonderful massage therapist, Flo Shephard. Flo not only delivers one of the best western massages you’ll ever have, she also does amazing reflxology and cranial-sacral treatments. Read on to find out how these can enhance your balanced life.
Cranio-Sacral Therapy and Reflexology
by Flo Shephard, C.M.T. Guest Author
Cranio-sacral therapy and Reflexology are alternative hands on therapies performed by specially trained massage therapists. Both are gentle and work by stimulating and supporting the body’s nervous system.
Cranio-sacral therapy or CST is a hands-on modality done by a massage therapist, but it is different from traditional massage. It is a manipulation of the spinal fluid from the head to the lower back. This fluid that surrounds our brains and the nerves in our spinal column, must have a healthy flow for optimal functioning of the nervous system that carries impulses from the brain to all areas of the body. The therapist actually feels the pulse of this fluid and works with your body to clear blockages and restore the proper flow. Other areas of the body are also manipulated, but in such a light manner that the whole process is very relaxing. CST compliments the natural healing process of the body.
Why would you want to try CST? Sometimes our spinal fluid gets sluggish or even totally blocked in some areas. When that happens, the brain isn’t able to communicate properly with some nerves. If they don’t receive messages, they can’t send messages. This can have a negative affect on our organs, muscles, and limbs, and may even cause emotional dysfunction.
People who receive CST regularly report improvement in many areas:
- Migraine headaches
- Chronic fatigue
- Emotional difficulties
- Learning disabilities
- Chronic neck and back pain
- Stress and tension related problems
- Fibromyalgia
- TMJ
Reflexology is another hands-on treatment that uses pressure points, circular rotations and some massage, usually on your feet or hands. The therapist works with points that are directly connected to your nervous system. Your feet are a direct map of your body via your nerve, and specific points on your feet correspond to every area of the body. The therapist uses certain techniques to activate the nerve pathways from your feet or hands to these different areas of the body. When utilized in the proper way, an area that is sluggish or disconnected can be cleared, refreshed and revitalized. After a session, many people feel relaxed, yet awake. Others feel somewhat tired because toxins have been moved and the body is working to eliminate them. Many people use reflexology to relax and de-stress the body and mind, and promote balanced energy flow.
Reflexology helps with:
- Arthritis
- Infertility
- Sleep Disorders
- Digestive Disorders
- Migraines
- Hormonal Imbalances
- Back Pain
Massage and other related hands on treatments are all positive for your health. They promote blood flow which increases oxygen in your body. This in turn gives you more energy, keeps your immune system stronger and brings you balance of body and mind. To try Cranial-sacral therapy or Reflexology, or if you have questions regarding these treatments, feel free to contact me. I am always glad to discuss ways to improve your health and life through massage, lymphatic drainage, and other related treatments.
Florence Shephard, C.M.T. loves working with people to improve their lives through healing touch. She has many years of experience in traditional Western (Swedish) massage, pregnancy massage, Reflexology, and Cranial Sacral Therapy. You can see or speak to her at Balance Point Spa in Santa Clarita, California.
661-252-0650
www.balancepointspa.com