Odete Cruz

Osteopathy, Cranial Sacral Therapy and Pilates

Odete is a highly experienced registered osteopath and dedicated Pilates teacher based in Lisbon, bringing a wealth of expertise to her practice. Originally from the islands of Cabo Verde, she combines her rich cultural background with a deep understanding of the human body to provide holistic care. Odete is passionate about helping her clients achieve optimal health and wellness, whether she is treating patients or teaching Pilates. Her areas of specialization include structural osteopathy and cranio-sacral therapy, which she employs to address a wide range of physical conditions with precision and care. Her approach is thoughtful, client-centered, and designed to restore balance and vitality in every individual she works with.

Functional Osteopathy:

Functional osteopathy operates within the range of motion, avoiding direct confrontation with barriers. Instead, it facilitates intrinsic reflexes to bring about changes. Its objective is to restore normal structure and function, aid in healing, strengthen defense forces, and maintain the body's natural balance (homeostasis). Ultimately, these efforts alleviate pain, allowing individuals to experience the joy of living without discomfort.

Cranial Osteopathy:

Cranial osteopathy is a branch of osteopathy that uses a range of gentle manual manipulation techniques. Its primary objective is to restore the natural rhythms of bone movement, facilitate the unrestricted circulation of cerebrospinal fluid, and release muscle and fascial restrictions in the head region. This form of therapy invites a sense of inner stillness. It proves beneficial for various conditions, not only due to its immediate welfare and advantages but also because of its gentle application. Patients often experience a state of relaxation during the session, sometimes leading to pain relief and even falling asleep. These techniques assist in alleviating symptoms and promoting self-healing in conditions such as sinusitis, insomnia, nightmares and sleep disorders, migraines, diver's ear and hearing problems, fibromyalgia, and more.

Pilates / Stretching:

Pilates is a method of physical and mental conditioning that encompasses the art of body control and movement. It goes beyond simply changing the form, function, and alignment of the body; it is also a science and a philosophy of life. Pilates engages both the body and mind, offering a massage-like effect by enhancing lymphatic circulation and energy flow during movement. It fosters comprehensive postural restructuring through movement and promotes self-awareness through mindful motion. Pilates not only improves overall health but also enhances the practitioner's quality of life. It shapes the body and transforms the essence of the individual, leading to a state of balance.

Stretching plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy muscles and facilitating optimal joint movement. Many joint pains and issues are rooted in imbalances and misalignments caused by muscle tightness. When a muscle is shortened, it often results in weakness, leading to joint instability, injuries, and discomfort. By incorporating stretching into one's routine, it becomes possible to rebalance the body, enhancing stability, strength, and mobility. Stretching allows muscles to achieve their maximum range of motion, ensuring healthier movement and reducing the likelihood of pain or injury.