What is Sophrology?

SOPHROLOGY WHAT IS IT?

 It is a "soft" or holistic medicine, that is to say that it takes into consideration the whole of the human being, both physically, emotionally, mentally, spiritually, environmentally and socio-culturally. It does not replace conventional medicine. Sophrology is a science that applies to the study of consciousness. 

It was created in Madrid in 1960 by Alfonso Caycedo, a Colombian neuropsychiatrist (trained as a doctor, psychiatrist, surgeon and neurologist; by profession as a psychiatrist and professor of psychiatry).

It is inspired by hypnosis, psychology, meditation, yoga, relaxation techniques and positive suggestion (such as the Coué method). 

It is a verbal and non-tactile method that uses a set of techniques that will act on both the body and the mind. It combines exercises that work on breathing, muscle relaxation and mental imagery (or visualization). 

Relaxation and breathing are the key words of this therapy. Sophrology therefore allows you to release emotional tension and gain self-confidence by better managing stressful situations.

The goal of sophrology is to reach: "the sophro-liminal level", a state of total relaxation occurring just before sleep.

The sophro-liminal level in sophrology is therefore a modified state of consciousness, in which the brain emits alpha-type waves. 

The alpha state is characterized by a significant slowing down of brain waves and by a greater receptivity of feelings. 

This allows us to work on our unconscious. To do this, the voice of the sophrologist is the main tool to achieve this state.

AREAS OF APPLICATION:

- EDUCATIONAL:

Preparations (childbirth, sports, exams), work on memory, concentration...

- PROFESSIONAL:

Stress management, improvement of concentration and creativity, management assistance, public speaking...

- THERAPEUTIC:

Psychosomatic / psychic / psychological illnesses (phobias, anxiety, tics, OCD, fears, behavioral disorders, anxiety), addictions, disorders (behavioral, sleep, eating), headaches, migraines, pain management...

 - PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT:

Development of self-confidence, support for changes, search for harmony, management of emotions...

In summary, sophrology is a method of personal development and stress management.

Next time, I will explain to you more precisely what the "sophro-liminal level" and the states of consciousness are.