Sophrology has become essential, as its benefits on the body and mind are undeniable. Here are the major features.
The origins of sophrology
Sophrology, as it exists today, appeared in the 1960s. It resulted from the work of Alfonso Caycedo, a Colombian neuropsychiatrist working in Spain. This doctor, a young intern in a neuropsychiatry department, is first led to question himself regarding the treatments he is supposed to administer to his patients: electroshock and insulin comas do not always seem to him appropriate to relieve, or even treat. in a sustainable way. From then on, Alfonso Caycedo became interested in clinical hypnosis, the results of which are convincing and promising. However, hypnosis is a practice whose representations are erroneous: in society, it often refers to mystical dimensions. To remove this “magical” aspect, Alfonso Caycedo proposes a new approach called “sophrosyne”, by focusing on studying what comes from consciousness, while using various forms of meditation and hypnosis. Relieving consciousness then becomes a fundamental leitmotif, in addition to existing therapies and medical specialties. It is in this capacity that sophrology acquires its letters of nobility: it is characterized by the study of harmonious human consciousness, while applying a set of techniques and methods to body mediation.
Sophrology exercises can help you sleep better and improve your performance: The methods
If sophrology is characterized by well-known practices, such as modern hypnosis, relaxation and certain forms of meditation of Eastern origin, two methods used hold the attention. First of all, we distinguish “autogenic training”, the salient feature of which is self-hypnosis: this involves suggesting sensations (heaviness, lightness, warmth, among others) to patients. By appropriating them and restoring them to the best of their ability, they are able to generate life-saving relief. The other method is called psychotonic relaxation, since it induces muscular relaxation whose purpose is to cause relaxation of the mind and spirit. Within the framework of these two approaches, the autonomy of the patient, as well as the expression of his feelings, are essential for the effectiveness of any sophrological approach.
The fields of application of sophrology
Since the 1980s, sophrology has been used in four main areas. The first of these concerns what is commonly called “medical sophrology”: this practice thus becomes a complementary tool for many medical or paramedical practitioners (doctors, nurses or physiotherapists, to name a few) . By stimulating the adaptability of patients, health professionals – who use sophrology – promote healing faculties. The second area is linked to the world of sport, insofar as sophrology is a complement to physical preparation and the achievement of performance: motivation, stress management, but also precision and self-confidence are all levers on which sophrology is likely to occur. The third area of application is social; sophrology can be used by social workers, when supporting people in difficulty: revaluation of individuals and preparation for difficult situations (interviews and competitions, among others) are areas of work specific to sophrology. Finally, the educational field is also concerned with sophrology; it takes an important place in many trainers whose specialty is personal development; professional and personal transitions are most often at the heart of the problems encountered by sophrology.
Sophrology is therefore a practice whose objective is well-being and balance. In addition to therapy or specific support, it provides significant added value.