“What does it mean to hold space for someone else? It means that we are willing to walk alongside another person in whatever journey they’re on without judging them, making them feel inadequate, trying to fix them, or trying to impact the outcome. When we hold space for other people, we open our hearts, offer unconditional support, and let go of judgment and control. Holding space is a key part of what we do in Upledger CranioSacral Therapy: being in neutral, supporting the client’s intuition and inner wisdom, creating a safe space – rather than trying to fix, give advice, judge, or even to know.”
-Dr. John E. Upledger
Valerie is trained in CranioSacral Therapy in Hillsboro, OR. Valerie embarked on her journey into CranioSacral therapy in April 2023 and is currently pursuing certification through the internationally renowned school, Upledger Insitute
Pacemaker Theory – What is the CranioSacral Rhythm?
There are six rhythms of the body that have been identified as “pacemaker rhythms”: one for the heart rate; two for the breath; the third is theorized to be your CranioSacral Rhythm; and the fourth, fifth and sixth are still being debated. These rhythms are due to specific oscillating neurons found in your brain stem. The CranioSacral rhythm can be felt very subtly anywhere in body. The different sensations of this rhythm communicate different issues going on in the body. Unlike traditional massage techniques, CranioSacral therapy employs gentle holds rather than vigorous rubbing, inducing a deeply relaxing and grounding experience. Clients often report feeling lighter and clearer-headed after a session.
As described by the Upledger Institute, CranioSacral Therapy (CST) was developed by osteopathic physician John E. Upledger after extensive scientific studies from 1975 to 1983 at Michigan State University. Practitioners use a delicate touch, often no greater than 5 grams, to release restrictions. This gentle manipulation has been shown to improve the central nervous system’s functioning and benefit various bodily systems, including the digestive, musculoskeletal, respiratory, and circulatory systems. CST has also demonstrated effectiveness in addressing somatic conditions such as Post-Traumatic Stress, depression, and anxiety.
CST is increasingly recognized as a preventive healthcare measure, enhancing the body’s natural healing processes and bolstering resistance to disease. It is sought after by individuals dealing with a wide range of healthcare challenges and symptoms, including migraines, chronic pain, motor coordination impairments, central nervous system disorders, traumatic brain injuries, scoliosis, and more. Additionally, it has shown promise in aiding conception, pregnancy, and birth, as well as addressing pediatric challenges, learning differences, and emotional difficulties.
Overall, CranioSacral therapy offers a holistic approach to wellness, addressing both physical and emotional aspects of health and well-being.
According to Upledger Institute, indicated conditions for CranioSacral Therapy include:
- Migraines, Headaches
- Chronic Pain
- Motor-Coordination Impairments
- Central nervous System Disorders
- Traumatic Brain Injuries and Concussions
- Alzheimer’s
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Scoliosis
- Conception, Pregnancy, Birth
- Pediatric Challenges
- Learning Differences, ADD, ADHD
- Autism and Sensory Processing
- Chronic Fatigue
- Emotional Difficulties, Depression
- Stress and Tension-Related Problems
- Fibromyalgia and Other Connective-Tissue Disorders
- Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome (TMJ) and Dental Challenges
- Immune Disorders
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Post Surgical Dysfunction
Valerie Carsey, LLC 