Annette Eccles, Craniosacral Therapist

About Me:

I have worked as a massage therapist for 22 years. Early on, I realized there was more to eliminating pain than chasing symptoms. I also became acutely aware of the connection between the mouth, with its network of nerves and connective tissue, to the rest of the body.

When I worked with a biological dentist associated with the University of Arizona's Alternative Medical Clinic, I found myself in the middle of the exploding epidemic of unrelenting chronic pain, illness and the effects of high stress.

Wanting to more fully understand the physiology of the conditions and changes happening in my client's lives, I returned to school and received a degree in Medical Massage. I currently hold a national certification in massage and bodywork and a state license in Virginia.

What is Craniosacral Therapy?

Craniosacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on method of evaluating and enhancing the function of a physiological system of the body called the craniosacral system. This system is comprised of membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Using a soft touch, I release restrictions in the craniosacral system to improve the pulse and movement, increasing function of the central nervous system.

By complementing the body’s natural healing process, CST is effective for a wide range of medical problems associated with pain and dysfunction including: Migraine Headaches, Chronic pain, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Learning Disabilities, Scoliosis, Traumatic Brain and Spinal Cord Injury, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue, Stress, TMJ, and more.

Due to the gentle nature of this treatment, it is safe and effective for all ages, from newborns to the elderly. However, my educational background and experience includes treating children ages 5 and older. In a typical appointment, my patients will lie on their back fully clothed, while I tune into the gentle craniosacral pulse and rhythm.

Somato Emotional Release (SER) Therapy

SER is a therapeutic process that uses and expands on the principles of Craniosacral Therapy to help rid the mind and body of the residual effects of trauma. Using the craniosacral rhythm as an indicator, information can be gained from the tissues of the body to recall and release the trauma held in the memory cells of the muscles. This is a gentle, non-invasive technique used to get to the root of discomfort and dysfunction.

Myofascial Release Therapy

Fascia is a layer of tissue that permeates the human body. It interpenetrates and surrounds muscles, bone, organs, nerves, and other structures. Fascia is an uninterrupted, three dimensional web of tissue that extends from head to toe, interior to exterior. CST and/or Myofascial Release Therapy can help release tension within the body. By releasing soft tissue restrictions and compensations of the body, the body’s movements can flow more naturally.

More About Me:

When not working, I bring balance to my life spending time with my children and grandchildren, endurance running, Pilates, reading and being with friends.