The Breath of Life: An Introduction to Craniosacral Biodynamics

Description

An introductory guide to Cherionna Menzam-Sills's unique approach to craniosacral biodynamics therapy, a whole-body healing therapy focused on working with the forces underlying health and healing A unique approach to Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy, a whole-body healing therapy focused on working with the forces underlying health and healing Cherionna Menzam-Sills draws on her extensive background in pre- and perinatal psychology, embryology, bodywork, Continuum Movement, and other somatic therapies-as well as years of working with her husband, Biodynamics pioneer Franklyn Sills-to present this accessible introduction to the meditative healing practice of Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy (BCST). This book offers a personal journey of embodied inquiry into each element of biodynamic session work, using meditative explorations, personal descriptions, and illustrations to convey the essence of Biodynamics.It emphasizes breathing and body awareness exercises that help the practitioner become more attuned to her own body so that she can create an effective relational field with her client. An essential guide for new practitioners, students, and clients-as well as a valuable reference for experienced practitioners-this book illuminates the path toward the intelligent formative forces of the mysterious presence called "the breath of life" and its transformative power for health and wholeness.

CHERIONNA MENZAM-SILLS is certified as a teacher of craniosacral biodynamics with the Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy Association of North America (BCTA/NA) and as a supervisor by the Craniosacral Association of the UK. She has also been authorized as a Continuum Movement teacher by Continuum founder, Emilie Conrad. Incorporating 40 years experience teaching and practicing various therapies, mindfulness practices, somatic movement, bodywork, psychotherapy and prenatal and birth psychology, Cherionna's credentials include a BSc in occupational therapy (University of Toronto), an MA in somatic psychology (Naropa University), and a PhD in pre- and perinatal psychology (Union Institute and University). Menzam-Sills teaches Biodynamics and Continuum across North America and Europe, often with her husband, Biodynamics pioneer, Franklyn Sills.

"Cherionna Menzam-Sills seeks to help practitioners create an 'effective relational field' through the use of breathing and body awareness exercises.... Students, patients, new practitioners, and even experienced Craniosacral Biodynamics therapists will find this project a key resource." -Foreword Reviews "A much needed preparatory book about this increasingly popular gentle-touch therapy. It brings the key concepts up to date, reflecting the evolution of Craniosacral Biodynamics instigated by Franklyn Sills. A testament to Menzam-Sills's wealth of clinical and teaching experience, the book is enriched by stories from her practice and perceptual exercises that engage the body-brain, not just the head-brain. It's a good read and will be enjoyed by practitioners and their clients as well as being a valuable reference tool for students and teachers." -Katherine Ukleja, DO, RCST, international teacher of Craniosacral Biodynamics "Have you ever read a book where Goldilocks serves as a metaphor for parasympathetic comfort and ease? With lightness and depth alike, embracing the fluidity and harmony of the feminine, Menzam-Sills weaves interpersonal neurobiology and insights into the polyvagal theory, elaborates on the social nervous system and trauma resolution, and includes a multifaceted review of the biodynamic principles with their baseline of reconnecting to health. A must for all practitioners." -Bhadrena C. Tschumi Gemin, founder of the International Institute for Craniosacral Balancing (R), ICSB, Switzerland "In her new book, Cherionna Menzam-Sills takes us on a journey to understand and experience Craniosacral Biodynamics. She brings us to the heart of the work with a personal, experiential approach that deepens and complements her clear expression of the theoretical basis of Biodynamics. Her style, descriptions, stories, and guided exercises will enliven and enrich understanding for both newcomers and experienced practitioners." -Anna Chitty, BCST, Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy course director and cofounder of the Colorado School of Energy Studies "The Breath of Life captures the depth and essence at the heart of biodynamic craniosacral therapy. Menzam-Sills also includes exercises that bring us into sensation that grounds the work. The book creates a balance between concept and fluid based embodiment of the principles of the work. This is a fantastic book!" -Mary Louise Muller, RCST (R), international teacher, and cofounder of LifeShapes Institute "This book is an important contribution to the field of Craniosacral Biodynamics that beautifully articulates key principles of practice from a feminine perspective. Menzam-Sills describes the great 'Intelligence' that generates and organises our health and offers insights from many years of clinical experience, which are interwoven with experiential exercises to provide the reader with an embodied sense of this work." -Michael Kern, course director of the Craniosacral Therapy Educational Trust in London and author of Wisdom in the Body: The Craniosacral Approach to Essential Health