What is sophrology?
Sophrology is a gentle, mind-body method that uses a set of techniques from various practices, combining the body and mind. These include:
- Muscle tension-release exercises,
- Precise and gentle movements that help develop a more refined perception of the body and bodily sensations,
- Meditation sessions,
- Visualizations,
- Positive evocations during which participants draw upon their own inner resources to strengthen them,
- Conscious breathing exercises,
All these techniques allow for both physical and mental relaxation.
This mental relaxation opens a space for acceptance, reflection, action, and access to potential solutions.
Sophrology is a tool for support and care for the individual in all their dimensions. It does not replace medicine, nor does it provide a diagnosis.
Sophrology is practiced collectively, meaning in groups, or in individual sessions. Sessions can be offered in private practice, at home, or online. They can also take place in companies or healthcare facilities, in hospitals or schools, although this list is not exhaustive.
When to practice sophrology
You can practice sophrology as it makes you feel calmer, but also for other reasons :
– manage emotions
– manage stress
– prepare for an event (public speaking, exams, surgery, etc.)
– reconnect with your body
– regain self-confidence by becoming aware of your abilities and strengths
– live more peacefully with tinnitus.
Sophrology and ADHD
Sophrology can be offered as a complement to the support provided to someone with ADHD: breathing, relaxation, and body awareness exercises can help develop attention and concentration skills, build self-confidence, and better manage stress, tension, and emotions.
The benefits vary from person to person.
Sophrology should not replace any medical support or lead to the discontinuation of treatment.
Typical session structure
The sophrologist teaches the method and its various techniques. They guide the session verbally and perform the exercises simultaneously with the client.
Whether in individual or group sessions, the structure of a sophrology session is essentially the same:
- Consultation to discuss objectives and expectations for the first session, or to review ongoing support
- Practice time including:
◦ Breathing exercises
◦ Muscle relaxation exercises
◦ Visualization exercises
- Time for sharing : we take a few moments to share your impressions of the session and your feelings about the exercises. This will allow me to adapt the exercises to your needs during the next session.
A group session or individual sessions last from 50 minutes to 1 hour for adults, 45 minutes for children.