CST is a gentle, hands-on, non-invasive method of bodywork that works with the body's natural healing processes. It focuses on the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord—collectively known as the craniosacral system.

Practitioners use an exceedingly light touch (about the weight of a nickel) to detect subtle restrictions in the body's tissues. This touch encourages the release of tension, which restores balance within the Central Nervous System (CNS) and facilitates the body's ability to self-correct and achieve homeostasis.

This is the primary goal of our sessions. It means shifting the nervous system out of the high-alert "fight or flight" (sympathetic) state and into the restorative "rest and digest" (parasympathetic) state. This activation of the vagus nerve is what promotes deep relaxation and stress relief.

CST is used to support the body's healing for a wide range of issues, especially those related to stress and the CNS. Common conditions include chronic pain, migraines, neck and back pain, stress and tension-related disorders, anxiety, and improving sleep quality.

No. CST is performed with the client (human) remaining fully clothed. For humans, we recommend comfortable, loose-fitting attire. For horses we recommend an adjustable halter (non-rope halter) as some of the releases horses experience create big yawns and the nose band of the halters must be adjusted to accommodate.

CST is gentle and safe for people and horses of all ages, from newborns to elders. However, it is not recommended for conditions where even a slight change in intracranial pressure could be dangerous (such as acute aneurysm, recent cerebral hemorrhage, or severe bleeding disorders). Always inform your practitioner of any medical conditions.

Most humans report a feeling of profound, deep relaxation. Some may experience gentle warmth, tingling, or a "listening" sensation as the body unwinds. It's common to feel so relaxed that you drift off to sleep. Some clients may also report feelings of increased energy and mental clarity.

Because the pressure is feather-light (often below the bracing response), horses typically respond with deep relaxation. This may look like yawning, chewing, deep sighs, dropping the head, or even falling asleep. These are all signs that the nervous system is down-regulating and releasing tension. Some horses may drool, blow out air, quivver, or lie down and enter REM stage sleep.

Sessions typically last between 45 to 60 minutes for both human and equine clients. Sessions can be booked for 90 minutes depending on what the body needs addressed during a CS therapy session.

This varies greatly by the individual and the issue being addressed. Some see immediate relief after one session, but chronic issues often require 3 to 6 sessions to fully process and hold the new balance. Your practitioner will discuss a treatment plan tailored to your team's needs. Maintenance Sessions are recommended typically at 1 month intervals.

We recommend drinking plenty of water and allowing time for rest. The treatment continues to integrate for the next 24-48 hours. For your horse, two days off of work with only light movement through turnout is generally recommended.

Following your body's relaxation and reset, the healing process continues for 24-48 hours. We encourage a "less is more" approach during this time. For the rider, this means avoiding strenuous exercise. For the horse, this means two days of light movement or turnout, allowing the body to integrate the newfound balance without introducing immediate, intense physical demands.