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History: William Garner Sutherland

Craniosacral therapy developed from the work of an American osteopath, Dr William Sutherland in the early 1900s. He discovered intrinsic movements of the bones in the head and his further research revealed different rhythms in the body. As a result of detailed clinical observation it has become clear that these movements, which can be measured with delicate scientific instruments, are a direct expression of health and offer a way of working with the physical as well as the more subtle aspects of life.

Further observation showed that these movements are also inextricably linked with psychological and emotional health. Restriction of movement corresponds to a reduction of the natural capacity to self-heal. Using the hands to feel these movements allows craniosacral therapists to facilitate change in areas of restriction. A limitation or absence of the movements implies a reduction in the expression of health which may result in, for example, numbness, a sense of something missing or disease.

Craniosacral therapy has developed from clinical experience, which shows that health is something active and not just an absence of disease. It is the expression of life, responsible for the organisation of the millions of things that are constantly happening in the body. Craniosacral therapy supports health in the body. It helps increase physical vitality and well-being not only effecting structural change but also having much wider implications, emotionally and spiritually. The resulting increased sense of well-being can help with many aspects of life from strengthening the immune system to improving interpersonal relationships.

W G Sutherland

photo © Mike Harrison