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Cranial Sacral Therapy- Cranial Sacral therapy is a gentle modality focused on releasing the fascia in the cranium, sacrum and dural tube connections. The traditional 10-step approach releases restrictions and encourages sinus drainage in the cranium. Rachel is trained in the expanded version which includes mouthwork and trauma healing. Mouthwork can be used with braces and dentures to encourage normal palate functioning. Some pelvic floor dysfunctions have been found to be connected to the mouth, and fascia release in the mouth can have a positive impact on the pelvic floor. Cranial Sacral therapy encourages the body to re-organize from its stress-state. Individuals who experience allergies, mast cell activation, dysautonomia and chronic pain may find relief with ongoing work that helps to settle the nervous system. It has a positive impact on sleep and drainage of sinus cavities in the brain which in turn provide a better healing environment in the body.
This approach has been found to bring great relief in regulating the nervous system of people with PTSD, those of us on the Autism Spectrum, ADHD, Anxiety (chronic, OCD), and treatment-resistant depression. Cranial Sacral research indicates relief in symptoms of some personality disorders when specific restrictions are released. Rachel is not a mental health therapist and can not diagnose. She is a Somatic Attachment Coach and can facilitate individual’s connection with themself. She can work in conjunction with therapists if a release is signed.
This therapy is done with the client fully clothed on a massage table. There are some modifications for sitting or standing depending on the client (pregnant, wheelchair, amputee, etc).
Sensory Integrative Massage- Sounds, pressure, and textures are some ways our senses are impacted on the massage table that can encourage or impede our relaxation. Does the calming music have crickets in the background? Is the lotion too oily? Can I keep my shirt or sports bra on? What if I get ‘touched out’ (when the body sends a signal that it has received too much sensory input) can I ask for a break? Whether you have been formally diagnosed with a Sensory Processing Disorder or are just aware of your sensory sensitivities, Indyroots is a safe space to experiment and advocate for yourself.
Practically, there is a traditional massage table. We also have a sensory swing with two swing options. Regular blankets, weighted blankets and a compression tube are available. Some massage techniques can be done in modified positions like sitting or on your side. The client can remain fully clothed or disrobe to their level of comfort. Though the standard instrumental music will be default, the client can pick background noise that helps them relax. Lotion and oils preference will be determined with the client.
Options:
Rachel can work as a team with your therapist (mental health, OT, PT) to enhance your capacity for somatic experiences and preferences. A signed release would allow your therapist and Rachel to communicate and build a plan that meets your goals for touch and sensation integration. This can be as basic as integrating compressions at the beginning of the session so the body’s proprioception is activated for safety. It can involve titrating touch which can look like the client picking the safest area of their body, and holding the therapist’s hand on that spot for 30 seconds or until they need to remove it, and letting their body process the feelings of that interaction.
Student Athlete Massage- Over the years my 5 kids have been heavily involved in sports at Ben Davis- track, wrestling, cross country, basketball, and even e-sports. Soft tissue work helps to maintain strength and stability, while facilitating a speedier recovery for injuries. Massage has been a big part of my daughter’s ACL and Meniscus recovery journey. It was important to find trustworthy massage therapists that my teens could trust with their bodywork. Please note, Indiana law requires a parent/caregiver to be present in the room for any youth under 16. Ages 16-18 the parent must be on premises but does not have to be in the room based on their comfort level. Additionally any injury (sprain ankle, torn meniscus, etc) will need a doctor’s note stating massage is indicated for recovery. Indyroots can provide the following options for your student athlete.
Options:
traditional sports massage, stretching, and deep tissue work
Targeted area work: example for e-sports would be neck and forearms,
Blend of cranial sacral with regular massage (this is very beneficial for football players, wrestlers and long jump athletes who experience hard jolts to their sacrum and cranium).
