Craniosacral Therapy Christchurch
What Is Craniosacral Therapy?
Craniosacral therapy is a gentle, hands-on osteopathic technique grounded in the understanding that the body has an innate capacity to heal itself. Using subtle, attentive touch, Luke assesses rhythmic movements within the craniosacral system — the membranes, bones, and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord.
Where movement feels restricted or imbalanced, these patterns can reflect the effects of physical strain, emotional stress, past trauma, or long-standing postural habits. Rather than applying force, craniosacral therapy supports the body’s own ability to release tension and restore balance.
Why Choose Active Health? We take a holistic, collaborative approach to restore your physical, mental, and social well-being. Our goal is to help you move better, prevent injuries, and stay active for life.
What Can Craniosacral Therapy Help With?
Craniosacral therapy is suitable for a wide range of conditions and is commonly used at Active Health to support patients experiencing:
- Headaches and migraines
- Jaw pain and TMJ dysfunction
- Neck and back pain
- Postural strain and muscle tension
- Stress, burnout, and fatigue
- Sleep difficulties
- Recovery from injury or physical overload
Many patients report feeling a deep sense of calm, clearer thinking, and greater ease of movement after treatment.
How Does Craniosacral Therapy Work?
The craniosacral system is continuous with the spine, sacrum, and connective tissues throughout the body. Restrictions in one area can influence overall balance and function — which is why a whole-body approach matters.
A key benefit of craniosacral therapy is its calming effect on the autonomic nervous system. By encouraging a shift away from the ‘fight or flight’ stress response and toward a parasympathetic ‘rest and digest’ state, treatment can help reduce tension, improve sleep quality, and support the body’s natural recovery processes.
What to Expect From Treatment
At Active Health, craniosacral therapy is always integrated with broader osteopathic care rather than offered in isolation. Luke combines craniosacral techniques with structural osteopathic treatment to address muscular, joint, and fascial influences together — providing care that is genuinely tailored to you.
Session frequency is guided by your individual goals and how your body responds to treatment. Over time, patients often notice gradual improvements in comfort, posture, energy levels, and overall resilience.
Meet Luke
Luke Reumers
Osteopath
Osteopath – B.App.Sci. (HB), M.Ost.
Hi, I’m Luke. I completed my Master’s in Osteopathy after experiencing firsthand how effective osteopathic treatment can be during my own competitive sporting career. I enjoy working with patients aged 5 and up, using techniques like joint mobilisation, soft tissue release, fascial release, craniosacral therapy, and more.
I focus on finding the root cause of pain and creating tailored treatment plans that often include exercise, nutrition, sleep, and stress management advice to support long-term health and mobility. I love helping people get back to pain-free movement and improving their quality of life.
Having grown up competing in multiple sports, I believe movement, sport, and play are essential for a healthy lifestyle. My approach considers your physical needs, lifestyle, and goals, helping you move better, more often, and without pain.
Originally from New Plymouth but loving the South Island, I’m an avid trail runner, currently training for a 100km ultra. When I’m not running, you’ll find me hiking, at the gym, bouldering, playing chess, or reading. My sporting background gives me a unique perspective on the physical demands my patients face.
No Referral Needed – ACC Accredited
Active Health is an ACC-accredited clinic, and you can book an appointment without a referral. We can provide and lodge your ACC claim forms on your first visit. If you have a GP referral, feel free to bring it, but it’s not required. Should ACC not accept your claim, standard treatment fees apply. Our friendly team is here to guide you through the process and ensure your care is simple, supported, and stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does craniosacral therapy feel like?
A: Most patients describe it as deeply relaxing. Luke uses very light touch — no manipulation or discomfort — and many people feel a gradual sense of warmth, release, or calm during treatment. It’s not unusual to drift into a light sleep, which is completely normal.
Q: Is craniosacral therapy safe?
A: Yes. It is a gentle, non-invasive approach suitable for most people, including those who find stronger manual therapy uncomfortable. Luke will take a full health history before your first session to ensure it is appropriate for you.
Q: How is it different from regular osteopathy?
A: Standard osteopathic treatment often involves mobilisation, stretching, and soft tissue work. Craniosacral therapy uses much lighter touch to encourage the body to release tension from within. At Active Health, Luke integrates both approaches where appropriate, providing genuinely whole-body care.
Q: How many sessions will I need?
A:This varies depending on your condition and how your body responds. Some patients notice improvement within two or three sessions; others benefit from ongoing care. Luke will discuss a recommended plan at your first appointment and review your progress along the way.
Q: Can it help with stress and anxiety?
A: Many patients find craniosacral therapy helpful for managing stress and its physical symptoms — including muscle tension, poor sleep, fatigue, and headaches. By calming the nervous system, treatment can provide real relief for those carrying a high stress load, and works well alongside other health support.
Make an Osteopath appointment today
Find a time that suits you and book an appointment online using our booking system. If you are not sure who to see, give us a call and we can help find the best clinician for you.