Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) and Why Its Movement Matters
Deep within the body, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) moves in a quiet, rhythmic flow. This clear liquid surrounds the brain and spinal cord, cushioning, nourishing, and detoxifying the entire central nervous system. A healthy breathing rhythm and regular spinal movement help maintain this natural pulse. When breathing becomes shallow or the spine becomes stiff, CSF flow slows down. Stagnation can lead to headaches, tension, brain fog, anxiety, toxin buildup, and long-term cognitive decline.
Therapist Takeaways
Mobilising the body’s five diaphragms — a pressure-based system — is essential for restoring healthy CSF rhythm. Techniques such as craniosacral holds, gentle sacral traction, soft rocking and spinal mobilisation, diaphragmatic and abdominal breathing, and sound vibration techniques all help release restrictions along the cranial–spinal pathway and restore natural rhythm.
How humming helps:
Humming increases nitric oxide, stimulates vagal tone, and softens fascial tension around the throat and thorax. This improves pressure balance across the iaphragmatic system, encouraging smoother CSF flow.
What contributes to diaphragm tension:
Stress, shallow breathing, emotional holding, inflammation, prolonged sitting, surgery, and unresolved trauma increase pressure across the diaphragms. Sound, breath, and gentle touch help unwind this tension and support healthier mobility.
Fun Facts
- Around 95% of headaches are linked to restricted movement at the sacrum — the base of the spine.
- CSF is renewed three to four times a day, constantly refreshing and detoxifying the brain.
- The body produces about 500 ml of CSF daily, even though only around 150 ml circulates at once.
How To Support the Flow
In my practice, sacral mobilisation and healthy breathing play a significant role in improving CSF flow. Clients often describe a feeling of “inner spaciousness” as tension melts and rhythm returns. Educating clients about this connection helps them appreciate why subtle work creates profound results.
Between Sessions
Encourage clients to support their rhythm through slow, conscious breathing, posture awareness,
gentle twists, cat–cow movements, and lying on the back with knees bent while softly rocking side to
side.
Closing Reflection
CSF movement is a pulse of vitality — it nourishes, cleanses, and harmonises the entire nervous
system. When the flow is restored, the body returns to clarity, calm, and inner rhythm.
Big Love,
Belinda
📞 +27 72 284 5415
📧 info@belindaprattwellness.co.za
Hermanus
Hours: Tuesday–Friday 09:00–17:00, Saturday 09:00–12:00
Currently all services are mobile/online only.