What is Integrative CranioSacral Therapy?
Integrative CranioSacral Therapy (ICST) approaches massage and bodywork from a flexible perspective that there is more than one way to look at the healing body.  ICST recognizes different schools of cranial work just like other massage and bodywork modalities.  Each with their merit and character. ICST is an inclusive-integrative toolbox engineered to build on the strengths of the therapist.

ICST uses axioms to frame out the approach.  An axiom is a foundational point which is regarded as being accepted; homeostasis, as an example.  Homeostasis is a widely known and accepted topic throughout healthcare and in the general public.  Each axiom adds layers and viewpoints which help the therapist gain perspectives about how to touch the body.  The greater the range of techniques at the therapist's disposal, the more optimized our sessions can become.   

Where does ICST come from?
The techniques are a blend of learning from others while living and breathing real-world experience across several aspects of our industry. (Spa, chiro office, private practice, corporate events)  ICST is an evolving philosophy of the healing body.  Many techniques are rooted in the different schools of craniosacral therapy, manual therapy, and osteopathy; with a significant massage therapy seasoning.  ICST increases interoception through touch by integrating different disciplines and practices.  A single-minded modality is not the solution for everything.  ICST is a light-touch initiated therapy with a core focus on the tissue response.  We draw on the wisdom of the past as we update with the information of today to create the knowledge for tomorrow.  

How does this benefit my practice?
The benefit to the therapist is greater comprehension and integration of their skilled touch, building on the foundation you have.  Each technique is presented as a stand-alone and also part of a protocol.  Learn to increase your capacity to break down complex signs and symptoms into digestible pieces with real applications for change.  We will explore how setting the intention around what is best for the client can lead to lasting change, doubling your playbook — our approach centers around an understanding of the nervous system and how to work with it. The benefit to the client is a more skilled listener at the helm of their wellness or recovery journey;  a therapist that is working smarter not harder.


What can I anticipate from an Integrative CranioSacral Therapy class?
Each student brings their own unique skill set and level of experience.  We at Touch Education honor your journey, and engineer classes balanced the art and science of massage and bodywork.  The integrative nature of an ICST class cultivates relationships between disciplines.  One discipline is strong, and many integrated seamlessly are superb.  Our technical content engages simple techniques brought forward to elevate your touch.  Tactical application of our axioms enhances your situational awareness in the session, for the client, and your self-care.  You can anticipate hearing some things already in your rotation, maybe in a new way.  You can anticipate gaining new perspectives on how to address your client’s issues or journey.  You can anticipate learning ways to integrate what you are learning with what you already do.  You can anticipate being able to apply what you learn right away.