What Is Craniosacral Massage Therapy?

Craniosacral therapy can assist with circulation issues, even in those with paralyzing disabilities. Therapists help release the restrictions in the craniosacral and fascial systems, and encourage the whole-body-flow of fluid. One technique that can bring a lot of relief to patients with circulation issues is known as "cranial pumping." In this technique, the therapist essentially "tunes into" the craniosacral rhythm while using gentle pressure to nudge the end range of extension and flexion. The color improvement in skin can be dramatic from this kind of therapy. 

This kind of massage therapy, as mentioned earlier, has been successfully applied to those with paralyzing disabilities. Therapists can, and do, work directly with doctors to formulate a plan that's safe. These sorts of therapies can also be beneficial for those with diabetes, as older patients especially struggle with circulation issues as age progresses along with the disease. 

Craniosacral therapy has even successfully helped those with paralyzing disabilities with problems like bladder infection. Which goes to show how massage truly does have healing powers. It's encouraging to see that medical doctors have begun to embrace massage as another alternative to painful surgeries.

What is hot stone massage?

Hot stone massage therapy is a type of specialty massage using smooth, heated stones. The stones retain heat well, and aid in relaxing tight muscles while also proving a deeply relaxing experience. 

Before the client arrives, the massage therapist sanitizes the stones (crucial) and heats them in water to a temperature between 120 and 150 degrees Fahrenheit. During the massage, the therapist first loosens the muscles and warms up the body using a traditional Swedish massage (other techniques may be used but this is the most popular). Once the body is ready, the therapist incorporates the stones into the massage, replacing cold ones with heated ones as needed. If the therapist detects energy blockages throughout the client's body, stones may be left in key pressure point areas to aid in energy flow.

While hot stones are traditionally used (as the name suggests) cold stones may be used to assist with inflammation or injury (as is common in sports injuries). Those experiencing a hot stone massage may notice a healing improvement of the following symptoms:

• Muscular aches, pains, sprains, and strains
• Poor circulation
• Rheumatic and arthritic conditions
• Fibromyalgia
• MS
• Back pain
• Stress, anxiety and tension
• Insomnia
• Depression 

As is the case with all massage, drinking water after a hot stone massage helps to relieve the body of toxins that get caught up in the blood.