The Power of Touch (Part 4)

(Here's Part 4 of The Power of Touch, by Michael Shea series)

What to Expect

In a typical BCST session, the client lies fully clothed on a massage table while the practitioner sits beside him or her. The practitioner places his hands very lightly on the client's body, after receiving permission to do so. Unlike other forms of craniosacral therapy that focus on the head, BCST sessions work with the entire body. Practitioners maintain a light sustained contact for several minutes in each hand placement. Clients are encouraged to check-in with the practitioner, to be sure that they are at ease at all times during the session. The total time for a session is usually 45 - 60 minutes.

The efficacy of this work has not been formally studied and no claims can be made regarding treatment results. Anecdotal reports from clients, however, suggest that it may be an effective form of work for a wide range of health concerns. It has effects similar to those of massage therapy, such as reducing heart rate, lowering blood pressure, increasing blood circulation and lymph flow, relaxing muscles, improving range of motion, and increasing endorphin production(which affects the perception of pain). BCST may also hasten recovery from injury and lead to a more complete resolution of it.

BCST is suitable for most people of all ages, including babies, children and the elderly, and may be effective in many acute or chronic conditions. Properly trained practitioners in this method receive the designation Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapist (BCST) y the International Affiliation of Biodynamic Trainings.