The Magic of Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy
by ERDC Doula, Regina
Being born is hard. It’s meant to be. The newborn’s nervous system needs to go through birth in order to prepare the baby for the outside world. This “traumatic” birth experience prints the brain with “I can overcome difficult scenarios” at a time when the brain is making the most neural connections. Being squeezed through the birth canal also allows the head to be molded correctly and activates certain reflexes that are crucial for a healthy development of the baby. However, a long or short labor or C-section can add extra compression to the baby’s body, which often presents as latching problems, digestive or pooping issues, and excess unexplained crying.
For example, if the baby’s head picks up too much compression at the back of the skull/top of the neck, the newborn will have a hard time pooping or digesting. This compression often occurs during the end of the pushing phase, when the baby needs to come under the front of the pelvis bone.
An induced labor, especially where pitocin or vacuum was used, will leave excess compression on the top of the head (soft spot), which often leads to overall head tightness and thus latching problems and restlessness.
A C-section baby has even more tightness in their head and body due to the sudden pressure change, which makes the head hard and tight, as well as the baby not experiencing the “squeeze” via the birth canal affecting basic primal development patterns like proper crawling that will affect future posture efficiency.
Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy (BCST) is a gentle hands-on modality that can help the baby relieve these tensions and compressions that are often stored in their head, neck, back and mouth. It also helps regulate the nervous system, which in turn can improve the baby's sleep patterns, digestion, elimination and overall state of calmness. Allowing infants to experience BCST sessions can create a profound sense of relaxation and support their ability to adapt to the world around them. By addressing the trauma of birth early, you are laying a solid foundation for your baby's health and ensuring their long-term well-being.
Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy also strengthens and nurtures the bond between the mother and baby, particularly when both are treated together as I do. This therapy encourages deep relaxation and connection, leading to a heightened sense of awareness and attunement between you and your newborn child which is invaluable during the transformative time of transitioning into motherhood. During the pregnancy itself, BCST can foster a sense of security, trust, and serenity between you and your unborn baby, allowing for greater preparation for the physicality of birth.
Furthermore, BCST can be incredibly beneficial for new mothers in their postpartum journey. After the birthing process, many women experience physical discomfort or emotional uncertainties. BCST can help ease these challenges by promoting deep relaxation, reducing tension in the body, aid tissue healing and helping the re-balancing of hormones. This support during your healing process helps you embrace your role with confidence and joy.
In the UK, where I took my 2-year training of BCST, it is standard for the midwives to recommend new moms to give their baby some cranio! I’ve treated hundreds of moms and babies over the 8 years of practising BCST, fostering an ideal environment for their new life and would love to support you and your baby.
Regina’s website: babycraniony.com (let her know ERDC sent you!)
