What happens when I arrive? We will begin by sitting together and I will listen with care to the concerns that are bringing you to therapy.
What is the hands-on part of the session like? During the hands-on part of the session, you will stay fully dressed, lying on a massage couch in a supported and comfortable way.
I will check with you to make sure that you are comfortable. This is an important step that ensures that what unfolds in the session is about you, rather than happening in reaction to you not feeling quite comfortable.
Session work involves a very light, gentle touch. I will usually begin at your feet, and during your session, I may go to other areas as needed, checking that the contact feels right for you.
I may ask you from time to time what you are experiencing, and will help you to stay present with whatever your experience is. We may unfold your experience more deeply through therapeutic dialogue.
What happens in the session? As I quietly, gently hold parts of your body, I am listening through my hands to the resources you have within, and for any restrictions and tensions – physical and emotional – that your body may be able to unfold and release at this time.
As I do this I may talk with you to enhance your awareness of what is happening.
The aim is to not only release tension held in your body but also to increase your emotional awareness to help the healing process complete.
What will I feel during the session? Sessions differ each time and what you feel will vary depending on what comes up in that moment.
During the session, you may relax so deeply that you fall asleep, or you may enter a quiet meditation-like state.
You may experience a sense of dreaming while awake, or find memories or insights coming to the surface.
Most people enjoy deep relaxation, which may feel like a pleasant sense of warmth, softening, expansion or floating.
At times, you may experience emotional releases such as crying, sighing or laughing. This is a normal part of the process of bringing to the surface whatever needs to be healed. If this happens, I’ll encourage you to just stay present with your breath and bodily sensations and allow this energy to discharge, holding it in your awareness. Once these patterns begin to shift, you may experience a sense of things settling.
As CST is a gentle, non-invasive practice, you shouldn’t expect to feel any discomfort during the session, though you may notice a mild, passing sensation as your body responds to changes.
What will I feel like afterwards? At the end of the session, you may feel relaxed, but also energised, and more comfortable in your body. You may be surprised to find a new sense of peace and ease going back to your everyday life.
I will take some time with you after you are off the couch to check in about how you are doing.
I will also help you understand and implement any new awareness and insights you’ve gained, supporting you in taking new steps in your life.
I will give you tips on how to take care of yourself for an hour or so after the session, and I may suggest some self-care and awareness practices for you to try between sessions.
To find out more,get in touchtoday and let's talk about what you need and how we can get started.