Craniosacral system and primary respiration in Chinese medicine

Abstract

Introduction. Craniosacral technique and the concept of «primary respiration» is the most effective branch in modern osteopathy. Historically it goes back to the ideas of W. G. Sutherland, which was documented in the 1930s. However, when studying ancient documents of Traditional Chinese Medicine, some theoretical and technical details appear in the description of the craniosacral system. These details date back to the ancient period of the formation of the canon of Chinese medicine and are unknown to modern osteopaths.The goal of research — to clarify the historical priorities for describing the craniosacral system and its practical application in the clinical and hygienic aspect.Methods. We studied the canonical texts of traditional Chinese medicine and Taoism, related to clinical and hygienic manipulations and life extension practices. Authentic epigraphic material with a detailed etymological analysis of ancient hieroglyphs was used in order to determine the anatomical, physiological and clinical views of the ancient people.Results. The mention of the main elements of the craniosacral system and the description of technical procedures date back to the formation of the medical canon, i. e. before the 3rd century B. C. Real anatomical ideas about the structure and functioning of the skull, spine and sacrococcygeal complex, as well as a detailed description of «primary respiration» are documented in the medical and Taoist canons.Conclusion. Studying the canonical texts of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Taoist sources basing on the practice «Nourishing Life» can significantly enrich the «toolkit» of modern osteopathy.