Craniosacral rhythm or cranial rhythmic impulse
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In craniosacral therapy, the basis of the system is the Primary Respiratory Mechanism. We can distinguish the following levels of perception: It is a rhythm with an approximate frequency of 6-14 cycles per minute, depending on the individual.
Each cycle has two phases: an inhalation phase (also called flexion or external rotation) and an exhalation phase (also called extension or internal rotation). The therapist’s perceptual field is focused on the tissues, bones, and membranes.
The average pace
It is a rhythm with a frequency of approximately 2.5 cycles per minute (inhalation and exhalation). It is the manifestation of the tides, where the action of powers in fluids and tissues is perceived. The movements are slow and encompass the entirety, like internal breathing. The perceptual field extends to encompass the entire person and their biosphere (the biosphere is the body and the field of potentials exchanging around it), and the mind is relatively still, encompassing a broader field and in relationship with the entire person.
The long tide
It is a rhythm with a frequency of approximately 100 seconds per cycle (inhalation and exhalation). The term was coined by osteopath Rollin Becker for this slower rhythm. The therapist’s perceptual field extends to encompass the entire person and beyond the body and is a direct manifestation of the intention of the “Breath of Life.”
Author: Alberto Panizo
From the book Introduction to Craniosacral Therapy