Workshops

CSCN1: CranioSacral Therapy for Cranial Nerves 1
CSCN1 September 4-7, 2025 Detroit, Michigan

Description:
The 12 cranial nerves are a key part of our nervous system and contribute greatly to our wellbeing. They oversee the five senses of smell, sight, hearing, touch, and taste. They help to maintain homeostasis and regulation of our heart rate, breathing, digestion, and blood pressure. They assist in maintaining our equilibrium and balance. New research shows that they play an important role in social engagement, trauma recovery, and human survival in mammalian social groups. Like any other nerve or physiological structure in the body, cranial nerves can become dysfunctional due to a number of different reasons: osseous or membranous restrictions within the cranium or cervical region; inflammation; injury, disease, or trauma; demyelination; poor intracranial pressure; or poor vascularization and blood flow. CranioSacral Therapists are in a unique position to be able to directly affect the recovery and function of cranial nerves through their structural and energetic practices.

This course focuses on the anatomy and physiology of the 12 cranial nerves, how they might become dysfunctional, and how to help restore function using new and existing techniques derived from Upledger CranioSacral Therapy. Participants will:
• Briefly review of key CS1 and CS2 concepts.
• Learn new ways to specifically address cranial nerve dysfunction.
• Work on deepening skills related to palpation and therapeutic presence.
• Apply all the information acquired to increase their confidence and efficacy within a CST treatment session.

The course carries a prerequisite of CS2 to help ensure students have a strong foundation in Upledger’s CST paradigm and core skills. Like other Upledger CST courses, this one blends lecture, demonstration, and hands-on practice. Experiential learning of the material is given high priority. Throughout the workshop, students will receive comprehensive information on the 12 nerves beyond what is covered in other Upledger CST classes. As such, this course provides an excellent optional preparation or support for those moving into or already practicing advanced pediatric CST (CSP), obstetrics CST (CCPB), or The Brain Speaks (TBS) work.

Advance Preparation:
Required reading is Chapter 1: Cranial Nerves, pages 1 – 110, in CranioSacral Therapy II: Beyond the Dura by John E. Upledger, DO, OMM, available at http://shop.iahe.com/Product-List/Textbooks/CranioSacral-Therapy-II-Beyond-the-Dura. Review CS1 and CS2 classroom notes and study guides.

Please arrive at class familiar with the following anatomical landmarks and their locations:

Boney landmarks:
Cribiform plate of the ethmoid
Lesser wing of the sphenoid
Sella tursica
Optic foramen
Superior orbital fissure
Foramen rotunda
Foramen ovale
Internal auditory meatus
External auditory meatus
Mastoid process
Jugular foramen
Foramen magnum
Hypoglossal canal

Brain structures:
Lateral ventricles
Third and fourth ventricles
Falx cerebri, falx cerebelli, tentorium
Thalamus
Brain stem — midbrain, pons, medulla
Cerebellum

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