Check Your Fluids: Cerebrospinal Fluid & Brain Health

For centuries, Cerebrospinal Fluid also known as CSF has fascinated philosophers, neurologists and holistic practitioners who have made progress in defining and understanding its function. It is known as the “third circulation”, the first being the blood and second being the lymph. It’s important to know about it, as its healthy function is an important factor in brain health and slowing down the aging process.

 What is CSF? 

 CSF is a clear, colorless fluid that flows through the brain and spinal cord and is completely replaced every few hours. It has the same consistency as water.

 What is its function? 

 Cerebrospinal Fluid;

a)     delivers nutrients to your central nervous system.

b)    assists the brain by providing protection and nourishment.

c)     assists in the removal of waste products (toxins) of brain metabolism including bacteria, viruses, and otherwise unnecessary molecules. 

d)    acts as a shock absorber, cushioning the brain against the skull.

 How does it work?

 CSF is produced by specialized cells in the brain and is propelled mainly by the rhythmic pulse wave of a neural artery. Other factors that contribute to its flow are posture, breath and spinal motions. Research suggests that when this flow is impeded through sedentary lifestyle, ie: excessive sitting, trauma, environmental toxins or poor nutrition, it can lead to accelerated degenerative changes, neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive impairment. 

 How do I increase CSF flow and brain detoxification?

Now we’ve got the technical jargon out of the way, how do you keep a healthy pulsation of CSF in the spinal cord and brain?

a)     As mentioned, sedentary lifestyles and poor posture (especially forward head posture) create an environment ripe for stagnation of CSF which can lead to brain fog and premature aging. Flexion and extension motions at the cervical region (neck) and sacral region (lower back), help pump CSF through the brain. Pilates is excellent for this as it encourages proper spinal articulations along the entire length of the spine.

b)    There is an ancient Ayurvedic technique called NASYA where herbalized oils are sniffed in to the nasal mucosa. This technique is designed to clean the brain ventricles and sinuses, which helps drain CSF. Ancient Ayurvedic texts also suggests that brain congestion is linked to emotional concerns. A less elaborate technique than NASYA, is to sniff a few drops of sesame oil to clear the brain and improve mood.

c)     Science on the third circulation system has seen a significant increase in pulsations when you are a) getting enough sleep and b) when sleeping on one side and c) going to bed early and waking up early. 

d)    Deep breathing through the nose are linked to better flow of CSF. 

e)    A diet low in a) saturated fats and b) eating low glycemic index foods has a positive effect on CSF.

f)      Cranio-Sacral Therapy works with the ebb and flow of the CSF around the brain. It’s a gentle hands-on method for chronic pain, improve functioning of the central nervous system, mental clarity, emotional release and preventative disease. 

 By understanding and incorporating a CSF healthy lifestyle, you’ll be on your way to a higher cognitive functioning and graceful aging.