Craniosacral Therapy: A Gentle Healing Approach for New Mothers and Their Newborns
Craniosacral Therapy: A Gentle Healing Approach for New Mothers and Their Newborns
The journey into motherhood is one of immense joy, but also one that comes with its share of physical and emotional challenges. From the physical toll of pregnancy and childbirth to the mental adjustments required in the early days of caring for a newborn, new mothers may experience a variety of discomforts. One gentle and effective therapy that is gaining recognition for its healing benefits is Craniosacral Therapy (CST).
This hands-on technique, which works to balance the craniosacral system (the membranes and fluids surrounding the brain and spinal cord), has been shown to support healing and restore harmony in the body. But what exactly is craniosacral therapy, and how can it benefit both new mothers and their infants?
What Is Craniosacral Therapy?
Craniosacral therapy is a gentle, non-invasive therapeutic technique that focuses on the craniosacral system, which includes the bones of the skull, spine, and pelvis, as well as the cerebrospinal fluid that circulates around the brain and spinal cord. Using light touch, typically no more than the weight of a nickel, trained practitioners assess and release restrictions in the craniosacral system to promote natural healing.
By releasing these restrictions, CST helps to enhance the body’s ability to heal itself, reduce pain and stress, and improve overall function. This therapy can be incredibly beneficial for individuals of all ages, including newborns and new mothers, as it promotes relaxation, relieves tension, and enhances overall well-being.
Benefits for New Mothers
The process of pregnancy, labor, and childbirth places significant strain on a woman’s body. These physical demands can lead to tension, misalignments, and discomfort that may persist long after delivery. Craniosacral therapy can offer several key benefits to new mothers:
1. Relieves Tension and Stress:
The hormonal shifts, lack of sleep, and the physical demands of caring for a newborn can cause significant stress. CST helps activate the body’s parasympathetic nervous system (the “rest and digest” system), promoting deep relaxation, reducing stress, and helping new mothers feel more centered and calm.
2. Improves Posture and Alignment:
Pregnancy and childbirth can cause postural changes and muscle imbalances. CST helps to realign the spine and pelvis, relieving the discomfort associated with these changes. This can be especially beneficial for mothers dealing with back pain or pelvic discomfort post-delivery.
3. Supports Recovery Postpartum:
After childbirth, the body is recovering from the immense physical and emotional experience. CST can support the recovery of the pelvic floor, ease tension in the neck and shoulders from breastfeeding, and promote healing in the soft tissues that were affected during delivery.
4. Enhances Emotional Well-being:
Emotional health is just as important as physical health for new mothers. Craniosacral therapy helps to balance emotions, alleviate anxiety, and promote a sense of emotional well-being, which can be especially helpful for those dealing with postpartum mood changes.
Benefits for Newborns
Craniosacral therapy isn’t just beneficial for mothers—it can also be incredibly helpful for newborns. Babies often experience physical stresses during the birthing process, even in otherwise smooth deliveries. These stresses can result in misalignments, tension, or discomfort. Here are some of the benefits CST can offer to newborns:
1. Relieves Birth Trauma:
The process of birth, especially if there were any complications such as the use of forceps, vacuum extraction, or a prolonged labor, can lead to physical stresses in a newborn’s body. Craniosacral therapy helps release any tension or restrictions in the baby’s cranial bones and the soft tissues around the head and neck, promoting better alignment and comfort.
2. Helps with Feeding Difficulties:
Some newborns experience feeding difficulties due to tension in the jaw, neck, or throat. CST can help release these tensions, making it easier for babies to latch, suck, and swallow effectively, which can improve breastfeeding.
3. Eases Digestive Discomfort:
Babies may suffer from digestive issues such as colic or reflux, which can cause discomfort and crying. Craniosacral therapy can help ease tension in the digestive system and the surrounding areas, potentially reducing symptoms of colic, constipation, or gas.
4. Improves Sleep Patterns:
Newborns often struggle with sleep, particularly if they are experiencing discomfort. CST can promote relaxation and help babies achieve deeper, more restful sleep by reducing stress and balancing their nervous system.
5. Enhances Overall Development:
Craniosacral therapy encourages proper cranial and spinal development. By reducing tension and promoting healthy alignment, CST can support the newborn’s physical and neurological development.
Is Craniosacral Therapy Safe?
Yes, craniosacral therapy is extremely safe for both mothers and newborns when performed by a trained and experienced practitioner. The gentle, non-invasive nature of the therapy means there are no risks of harm, and it can be tailored to each individual’s needs.
Many mothers and babies report feeling deeply relaxed after a session, with some even falling asleep due to the calming effects. The best part is that this therapy can be done as often as needed, either as a stand-alone treatment or as part of a broader wellness plan.
Conclusion
Craniosacral therapy offers a unique, gentle, and effective way to promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being for both new mothers and their newborns. Whether helping to relieve postpartum tension in mothers or easing birth-related discomfort in babies, CST can support healing, improve comfort, and promote overall health. If you are a new mother looking for a way to balance your own health and support your baby’s development, craniosacral therapy might be the gentle healing modality you need.
As always, consult with a qualified healthcare provider before seeking out any new therapies to ensure the best approach for your personal health journey.
Our P.E.A.C.E. Sessions or Postpartum Ease And Comfort Empowerment Sessions
Healing & Support for Moms & Newborns – In-Home Craniosacral Therapy Sessions and so much more!
Bringing a baby into the world is a profound journey—your recovery and your newborn’s comfort deserve specialized care.
Our in-home craniosacral therapy integrates physical therapy to support both mother and baby with expert, hands-on techniques.
✨ For Moms:
✔ Postpartum recovery with manual therapy, dry needling, and gentle bodywork for pain relief and functional mobility.
✔ Ergonomic guidance for feeding and daily movements to reduce strain on your neck, back, and shoulders.
✔ Hands-on techniques to improve posture, core stability, and overall well-being.
👶 For Newborns:
✔ Gentle craniosacral therapy to address feeding difficulties, colic, sleep disturbances, and birth-related tension.
✔ Support for optimal head shape and body alignment to encourage healthy development.
🏡 In-Home Care for Your Convenience: Personalized, efficient, and specialized therapy in the comfort of your home—because your healing matters.
Prioritize Your Recovery. Empower Your Baby’s Growth.
📞 Book Your In-Home Session Today by clicking the link!
If you are interested in a session - we have a Doctor of Physical Therapy on staff who can perform this in you own home! We are offering 90 minute visits for mom and baby to help you take care of yourself and baby. We will also help with ergonomics for feeding, nursing, posture and of course support in as many ways as we can!
We will start booking home visits April 2, 2025 - click the link and allow us to learn how we can help you heal more completely.