All books listed are available through www.BooksandBones.com
BASIC FOUNDATIONS Reading
  1. Life in Motion
    by Dr. Rollin Becker D.O.
    One of the best books on being a practitioner with an emphasis on learning to listen to the clients system. Part philosophy, part poetry, this is a well grounded approach to understanding fluid based work. A rare delight!
  2. Stillness of Life
    by Dr. Rollin Becker D.O.
    Deals with some of the more esoteric aspects of “Breath of Life” as well as the practical aspects of being a practitioner. Wonderful letters between Sutherland & Becker and transcripts of brilliant discussions with students. Not to be missed.
  3. Wisdom In The Body
    by Michael Kern D.O.
    Very clear style of writing with a spacious layout makes this book a joy to read. Kern presents a broad overview of cranial work with its history, function and practical application with an emphasis on a biodynamic approach. He also gives solid information that is useful to both experienced and beginning practitioners.
  4. In an Unspoken Voice: How the Body Releases Trauma and Restores Goodness
    by Peter Levine
    In this culmination of his life’s work, Peter A. Levine draws on his broad experience as a clinician, a student of comparative brain research, a stress scientist and a keen observer of the naturalistic animal world to explain the nature and transformation of trauma in the body, brain and psyche. In an Unspoken Voice is based on the idea that trauma is neither a disease nor a disorder, but rather an injury caused by fright, helplessness and loss that can be healed by engaging our innate capacity to self-regulate high states of arousal and intense emotions. Enriched with a coherent theoretical framework and compelling case examples, the book elegantly blends the latest findings in biology, neuroscience and body-oriented psychotherapy to show that when we bring together animal instinct and reason, we can become more whole human beings.
  5. Foundations in Craniosacral Biodynamics, Vol. 1: The Breath of Life and Fundamental Skills
    by Franklyn Sills
    Biodynamic work is based on the development of perceptual skills where the practitioner learns to become sensitive to subtle respiratory motions called primary respiration and also to the power of spontaneous healing. In this book, Sills offers students and practitioners an in-depth, step-by-step guide to the development of perceptual and clinical skills with specific clinical exercises and explorations to help students and practitioners learn the essentials of a biodynamic approach. Individual chapters cover such topics as holism and biodynamics; mid-tide, Long Tide, Dynamic Stillness and stillpoint process; the motility of tissues and the central nervous system; transference and the shadow; shamanistic resonances; and more.
  6. Function & Dysfunction, 3rd Edition, with Online Access
    by Wilson-Pauwels, Akesson & Stewart
    New edition! This is one of the best basic texts on the cranial nerves with its clear illustrations of the nerve pathways and detailed text. Comes with a CD-ROM disc for either Mac or Windows. Has case studies for you to diagnose.
  7. Cranial Intelligence: A Practical Guide to Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy
    by Ged Sumner & Steve Hainses
    An important textbook that demystifies the biodynamic approach and shows how and why it can be so effective at bringing about a natural realignment towards optimal health. Also has a wonderful chapter on practice development and covers pertinent issues of how to set up and maintain a successful practice. A great addition to the Cranial literature.
  8. Foundations in Craniosacral Biodynamics, Vol. 2: The Sentient Embryo, Tissue Intelligence, and Trauma Resolution
    by Franklyn Sills
  9. A good Anatomy Atlas is recommended. We recommend either:
HIGHLY Recommended Reading and DVDs
  1. Teachings in the Science of Osteopathy
    by Dr. W.G. Sutherland
    Transcribed from his last lectures. A brilliant book and one of the definitive texts. Discusses the "Breath of Life", the fluid tide and other key understanding of this work in an inspiring and understandable text. This is a book you will refer to for many years to come. A wealth of information and concepts.
  2. Contributions of Thought: The Collected Writings of William Garner Sutherland, D.O.
    Collected papers of Sutherland. Includes articles written by "Blunt Bone Bill". Newly edited hardback showing the progression of his work from 1914 to 1954. Includes the. famous “Liquid Light” references. Highly recommended for understanding of Biodynamic Cranial work.
  3. A Color Atlas of Head and Neck Anatomy
    by McMinn/Hutchings/Logan
    One of the best adjunct anatomy texts. Shows the relationships of the cranial bones and gives anatomical details not found elsewhere. Superb dissections!
  4. With Thinking Fingers
    by Adah Strand Sutherland
    The biography of William Sutherland as written by his wife. She discusses in detail the struggles he underwent in developing cranial osteopathy and the emergence of a unique and effective form of healing. A sweet and loving gem.
  5. Fasciae: Anatomy, Dysfunction and Treatment
    by Serge Paoletti D.O.
    The finest text on the fascia tissue to date. Begins with the embryological development (covers Blechschmidt’ s work and puts it in that context) and continues to explain in extreme detail all the anatomy and physiology of the fascia. Beautifully written with copious illustrations, this book explains what you might encounter clinically and how to work with it in a practical manner.
  6. Somatic Re-Sourcing
    by Mary Louise Muller
    Explores the practitioner and clients interaction in the healing field. Based in an understanding of Cranial work, Somatics, and Polarity Therapy. Discusses the healing of trauma in very practical terms. With case studies and a color chart showing in diagrammatic form, the relationship of the client and practitioner within the Breath of Life.
  7. The Ontogenetic Basis of Human Anatomy
    by Erich Blechschmidt
    A biodynamic approach to development from conception to birth. This is the first time this book has appeared in English. A stunning tour de force that redefines the field of embryology. Beautifully translated with many illustrations. The best introduction to Blechschmidt’s work.
  8. Biokinetics and Biodynamics of Human Differentiation
    by Blechschmidt and Gasser
    A brilliant treatise on Embryology written from a fluid based approach. The blueprint is in the Fluids and DNA is secondary. A more detailed companion to the above listed book. This is a new edition printed in hard cover, with high quality paper and newly scanned photos and illustrations.
  9. Biodynamic Osteopathy
    by James Jealous D.O.
    A series of lectures by the eminent osteopath. 47 Audio CD’s available, call for details of titles and synopsis of each CD or view them at www.BooksandBones.com
  10. Human Embryology from a Biodynamic Perspective – 6 DVD Set
    by Dr. Brian Freeman
    These 12 lectures by Dr. Brian Freeman were filmed on July 3 and 4, 2010 in Bath, U.K. before an audience of 130 osteopaths. The material presented is essential for understanding the basic principles of embryology from a biodynamic perspective. In a well documented and persuasive manner, Dr. Freeman gives an overview of embryology and its clinical importance. Each lecture is approximately 60 minutes long with an additional chapter of questions and answers from the audience.
  11. Craniosacral Biodynamics Volume 2
    by Franklyn Sills
    Beautifully edited and very readable. Covers Pelvic and Vertebral dynamics, Venous Sinus drainage, Nociception, Facial, hard palate & TMJ issues, Birth dynamics, Cranial Base patterns, Midline and formative forces, motility of CNS and much more.
  12. Interface: Mechanisms of Spirit in Osteopathy
    by R. Paul Lee D.O.
    A new book from the publisher of Rollin Becker’ s books, this text discusses the philosophical and practical roots of Osteopathy beginning with A.T. Still and continuing up to the present. Beautifully written and is a book you will return to again and again.
  13. The Video Atlas of Human Anatomy
    by Robert Acland
    The most amazing anatomy videos ever produced. Using fresh, un-embalmed cadavers, a computer controlled rotating camera, and some of the most skillfully prepared dissections ever seen, these videos make learning anatomy a pure joy. Equally valuable to the beginner and professional alike, these are works that should be in everyone’ s library. In Six volumes, each about 2 1/2 hours long. 1) The Upper Extremities, 2) The Lower Extremities, 3) The Trunk, 4) Head and Neck, 5) The Brain, 6) The Internal Organs.
  14. Endless Web: Fascial Anatomy & Physical Reality
    by Schultz/Feitis
    A comprehensive guide to the myofacial system including embryonic, developmental and early structural organization. One of the first books on Fascial connections.
  15. The Body Bears the Burden
    by Robert Scaer M.D.
    Describes the clinical, and physiological aspects of trauma including whiplash, post- traumatic stress disorder, and histories of abuse. Contains case studies with practical methods for working with trauma victims.
  16. Cranial Osteopathy: Principles and Practice, 2nd Edition
    by Torsten Liem with contributions from McPartland & Skinner
    Published for the first time in English, this text has been a standard in the German literature since 2000. Has many references to a Biodynamic approach and discusses Sutherland, Becker, Blechschmidt and Jealous at some length. This book covers in minute detail all the vascular, muscular, ligamentous, fascia and neuro implications of each cranial bone and their articulating mates. It contains an extensive analysis of clinical approaches to the TMJ, the eye and its orbit, head, face and neck pain, and working with the midline in a biodynamic context. A large format hardcover with multiple photographs and illustrations. This is a beautifully written, well-researched text and is sure to become the standard by which all other osteopathy books are measured.
  17. Architecture of Human Living Fascia: The Extracellular Matrix and Cells Revealed Through Endoscopy
    by Jean-Claude Guimberteau
    This richly illustrated book, with accompanying DVD and website, presents Dr Guimberteau’ s groundbreaking work, and explains its significance for manual therapists and movement teachers, and its implications for what they do with patients and clients. Dr Guimberteau is the first person to film living human tissue through an endoscope in an attempt to understand the organisation of living matter. He has developed his own concept of the multifibrillar structural organization of the body, of which the microvacuole is the basic functional unit. He has also developed a concept of global dynamics and continuous matter.
  18. The Polyvagal Theory: Neurophysiological Foundations of Emotions, Attachment, Communication, and Self-Regulation
    by Stephen Porges
    One of the most important books written on the nervous system in the last fifty years. Porges’ s ambitious, meticulous, synthetic theory provides a missing link between mind and the nervous system. It also helps explain, in fine detail, how our individual nervous systems influence, and are influenced by, our interactions with others. This exposition of the Polyvagal Theory has startling implications for the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, and autism. Adopted by clinicians around the world, the Polyvagal Theory has provided exciting new insights into the way our autonomic nervous system unconsciously mediates social engagement, trust, and intimacy.
  19. The Protoplasm of a Slime Mold DVD
    with commentary and photography by William Seifriz, Professor of Botany – University of Pennsylvania
    This is an absolutely stunning DVD showing the underpinnings of Life in its most primal state. This is truly “Life in Motion”. The commentary by Seifriz is brilliant and persuasive and the microscopic cinematography is years ahead of its time. In this DVD, Seifriz discusses the qualities and attributes of protoplasm and shows it streaming back and forth in a 50 second cycle that seems to defy all logic. This cycle is often compared to the cycles of Cerebral Spinal Fluid in the Primary Respiration system. If you want to understand fluid fluctuation and dynamics of the cranial system, this film will make it very clear. This DVD has been re-mastered from the original 16 mm film so the quality is much better than the videos that were in circulation. Running time of 27 minutes.
  20. Strolling Under the Skin (Promenades Sous la Peau) DVD
    by Jean-Claude Guimberteau
    The most amazing micro-cinematography of the fasciae tissue ever filmed. It’s like exploring another world or galaxy. Beautiful and enlightening in it’ s content with a detailed understanding of how the fasciae and related tissue glides and moves in relation other structures. This is ground breaking research into the connective tissue and there are also computer models of how the tissue moves. This film will give you a deep appreciation of the complexity and beauty of the fasciae tissue.
RECOMMENDED Reading
  1. The Selected Writings of Beryl E. Arbuckle
    by Beryl E Arbuckle
    Writings on cranial osteopathy with an emphasis on children and infants.
  2. Are We On The Path? The Collected Works of Robert C. Fulford D. O.
    by Dr. W.G. Sutherland
    Starts with a wonderful biography where Fulford’ s many influences (Randolph Stone, Beryl Arbuckle, Still, Sutherland, Becker et all) are discussed. Contains many of his papers and transcribed lectures. A book you will return to over and over. A labor of Love.
  3. The Human Brain: Functional Anatomy
    by John Nolte
    An excellent exposition of the Central Nervous System written in plain English. A fun read with wonderful illustrations and color photos. Mr. Nolte has a delightfully dry sense of humor and an engaging writing style that makes a complex subject understandable and enjoyable.
  4. Visceral Osteopathy: The Peritoneal Organs
    by Helsmoortel, Hirth & Wuhrl
    This is by far the finest visceral book we have seen to date. The text is concerned with the application of osteopathic concepts to the abdominal viscera, specifically the organs of the gastrointestinal tract. It lays out a comprehensive manual approach to these viscera based on physiological research and extensive clinical experience. The illustrations and diagrams are clear and show exactly what you need to know. Most chapters starts out with the embryology for the perspective of Eric Blechschmidt’ s work, and in doing so, they address the embryology in a manner that can be utilized clinically. Beautifully written and applicable to most practitioners.
  5. Basic Concepts in Embryologyy
    by Lauren Sweeney
    A Student’ s Survival Guide. Well written and understandable. Discusses transitory structures and tells you what happens to them unlike most embryology texts. One page of illustration for every page of text. Great overview with all terms well defined.
  6. Autonomic Nerves
    by Wilson-Pauwels, Akesson & Stewart
    The best text we have found on the Autonomic nervous system. Contains an entire section of case studies that includes diagnosis and problem solving. Well organized with beautiful color illustrations. Comes with a CD-ROM disc for either Mac or Windows.
  7. Harper Collins Illustrated Medical Dictionary
    New 4th Edition A large format book with clear and concise illustrations and definitions. Our favorite medical dictionary, and with over 750 pages, it’s a great bargain as well. The illustrations cover the upper third of each page and are beautifully drawn making this book a pleasure to peruse and explore. Impress your friends and colleagues with your vast vocabulary of medical terms.
  8. Craniofacial Development
    by G.H. Sperber
    Comes with CD-ROM for either Mac or Windows. New large format with great photos, Illustrations and very clear and concise text helps in understanding facial embryology .
  9. Sensitive Chaos: The Creation of Flowing Forms in Water and Air
    by Theodor Schwenk
    "Water is the bearer of the living formative processes. The fluid element is the universal element, not yet solidified but remaining open to outside influences, the unformed, indeterminate element, ready to receive definite form. It has been called the sensitive chaos' (Novalis Fragmente)." - from the foreword - Contains wonderful photos illustrations that show air and water patterns in nature. Many of these are pictures illustrate the patterns you feel under your hands. Helps give a different (and essential) perspective to cranial work.
  10. Anatomy of Potency
    by Nicholas Handoll D.O.
    In the practice of Cranial Osteopathy, one must understand the essentially linear concepts of anatomy and physiology as well as the nonlinear concepts related to the energy that binds and operates the system. This book explains much of this dichotomy by way of quantum physics while challenging our perceptions of reality. A great read.
  11. The Collected Papers of Viola M. Frymann D.O.: The Legacy of Osteopathy to Children
    Written by one of the “gran dames” of Osteopathy, this book contains clinical research, Osteopathic principles in clinical application, and much of the scientific research validating Osteopathic practices. The paper on palpation is worth the price of the book alone.
  12. Osteopathy in the Cranial Field
    by H.I.Magoun D.O.
    1st Edition now back in print. Contains many references to the Energetic Component & Breath of Life not found in later editions. Discusses the more esoteric aspects of the work. This is the only edition approved by William Sutherland. Limited printing.
  13. The Heart of Listening, Volume 2
    by Hugh Milne
    Vol.II has very clear anatomical illustrations with great information on each cranial bone. Covers the bone and tissue relationships and gives a good overview of the entire system.
Recommended GENERAL Reading
  1. Holographic Universe
    by Michael Talbot
    An exposition on the wider implication of New Physics. Translates quite well to Cranial work.
  2. Body Remembers: The Psychopysiology of Trauma and Trauma Treatment
    by Babette Rothschild
    One of the best books on working with trauma using a combination of Body-oriented and traditional verbal trauma therapy. Combines theory, research and practice in a cohesive and readable format.
  3. Hidden Nature: The Startling Insights of Viktor Schauberger
    Victor Schauberger was a pioneer of the study of the subtle energies in nature and the importance of living water in all natural processes. This book describes and explains his insights in contemporary, accessible language.
  4. Second Brain: The Scientific Basis
    by Michael Gershon
    The best popular book on the enteric nervous system. Takes 30 years of research into the human bowel and puts it together in a way that is (dare I say it) digestible. If you are planning on learning visceral work, the book is a must.
  5. Cells, Gels and the Engines of Life: A New, Unifying Approach to Cell Function
    by Gerald Pollack
    This book offers a dramatic alternative to the conventional wisdom of contemporary cell biology. Although some of the material is deeply embedded in controversy, the overall message comes across clearly in this stimulating and enjoyable book. Pollack asks penetrating questions that are not born out of his imagination, but from careful analysis of puzzling results obtained by many investigators that do not fit current paradigms. While this is written in a lighthearted and humorous manner, it never loses its ability to bend your mind with its solid grounding in scientific research. A very readable book.
  6. Being and Becoming: Psychodynamics, Buddhism and the Origins of Selfhood
    by Franklyn Sills
    A brilliant text that explains the work of Winnicot, Lake and Fairbairne in a practical and usable manner. This book discusses the relationship between the therapist and the client in a practical and compassionate manner. Highly recommended.