Over the last 23 years I have developed an extensive dance and movement practice working alongside young babies to ninety-plus year olds. I frequently work with those facing challenging circumstances, such as health issues, trauma, economic deprivation and special educational needs and disabilities. My dance work takes place in children’s centres, nurseries, schools, colleges, day centres, sheltered housing, hospices, and hospitals as well as more traditional arts and cultural settings. I deliver continuing professional development training at conferences and symposiums nationally for local authorities, dance, music and arts organisations. My work has included Trinity Laban, Barbican Guildhall, TheVictoria & Albert Museum, Spitalfields Music, Dance Art Foundation, Green Candle Dance Company, Scottish Dance Theatre and Dance East. Locally, I have been working closely with Kay Rowe Nursery School for 11 years and have been dance artist in residence at The Magpie Project for 3 years. I’ve lived in Forest Gate since 2008.

In the late 90s I experienced biodynamic craniosacral therapy (BCST) as a case study for a friend and it became the most effective form of treatment for my body when dealing with injuries and emotional issues. In my participatory dance practice, I work with the health and possibilities of individuals, and this is mirrored in BCST.

I began my training at CTET, the Craniosacral Therapy Educational Trust in London in 2018 and graduated in 2021. I completed additional training in October 2021: Working with babies, mothers, and pregnancy.

What is Craniosacral Therapy? 

‍Craniosacral Therapy is a hands-on therapy that uses a light touch and whose origins are in the practice of Osteopathy. 

The body has self-healing capabilities and is constantly striving for good health. Craniosacral Therapy can facilitate this natural propensity for balance and a feeling of wellbeing in the client. Craniosacral Therapy recognises the interconnection between mind and body. 

Craniosacral therapists work with the presence of subtle rhythmic motions that are expressed within the body (particularly the head, spine and pelvis). The free and balanced expression of these subtle motions is related to our state of health and vitality. 

In a typical session the client will lie clothed on a treatment couch. The therapist makes contact by gently placing their hands on the client's body and uses a light touch to tune into the subtle motions taking place. The therapist can evaluate if there are any imbalances within the body and use a range of non-invasive therapeutic skills to relax and thereby promote self-healing within the client. 

Who is BCST for?

BCST is a gentle technique and safe for all; pregnant women, babies, children and adults, including the elderly. (Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.)

Treatment can help to support many issues including:

Back, neck & general aches & pains

Grief

Anxiety

Migraines

Depression

Menopause

Fatigue

Insomnia

Digestive issues

Stress

Confidence

​Trauma and PTSD including related birth & early childhood experiences

BCST can be especially beneficial during pregnancy, for both pregnant and new mums, offering support with the changes in the body; and mother and baby, post-partum supporting birth difficulties, trauma, sleep and feeding among other issues.

I am currently seeing clients at ACU.E8 in Dalston as well as locally in Forest Gate. For more information and to book, please contact me info@louiseklarnettcraniosacral.com louiseklarnettcraniosacral.com follow me on Instagram @louiseklarnettcraniosacral

For dance louiseklarnett.co.uk and themagpieproject.dance

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Illustration © Zoè Delautre

Photography © Laura Zotova

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