Why is Cranial Work So Important?
The cranium (skull) surrounds and protects our brain. It is made of 22 separate bones which are not only connected to each other, they are connected to the brain itself by an intricate network of connective tissue called fascia. These bones are not fused together and can move in relation to each other.
The fascial network continues from the cranium and brain down the spine and spinal column, all the way down to the pelvis, tailbone and beyond.
Tensegrity model of the spine as envisioned by Buckminster Fuller
Now, imagine you are holding a rope taught between your hands. If you twist one side of the rope, the twist will travel all the way down to the other end....
Well, the same thing is happening in your body! When there is a twist in the cranial fascia, the twist is also found down the spine and into the pelvis.
In other words, when there are fascial restrictions in and around the cranium, our cranial bones can easily be pulled out of their optimal position. This structural dysfunction in the cranium can then "spiral-down" through the spine and cause misalignment and pain in the low back, pelvis, or other areas the body. Conversely, an injury in the lower body can "spiral-up" into the cranium, causing headaches, etc.
These restrictions can even affect the brain itself. The brain is directly
connected to the functioning of every aspect of our health, including our digestion, our hormones, our muscles, and our pain.
The nerves which relay messages between our body and brain can become trapped by fascial restrictions as well, causing a debilitating cycle of chronic pain or dysfunction.
Releasing the fascia in the cranium is essential to optimal health. It is highly beneficial for mental clarity, emotional balance, and increased energy, but it is also necessary for proper functioning of all our body systems.
Cranial work not only allows the brain to function at a higher level, it helps the brain and body to function as an integrated whole.
Cranial work is deeply therapeutic, extremely gentle and profoundly relaxing
