SOPHROLOGY… WHAT IS IT?
Sophrology also called ‘dynamic relaxation’ can be seen as a technique combining Eastern practices (yoga, Zazen, and Buddhist meditation) and Western approaches (psychology, hypnosis, and relaxation). Sophrology was created 60 years ago in Spain by psychiatrist and neurologist, Professor Alfonso Caycedo. Summarised in one sentence, Caycedo dubbed sophrology as “learning to live”. is a series of quick and effective mind/body exercises to relax, focus and move through life's challenges with ease.
Based on the above description alone, it seems that sophrology and mindfulness are very closely connected. They are simple and powerful techniques that can be practised anywhere and at anytime, not requiring any previous knowledge or a particular belief system.
Furthermore, they share many similarities in their proposed benefits, such as reduced stress and tension, improved sleep, emotion regulation, self-development, increased energy, and a decrease in symptoms related to various mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression. Most importantly, many exercises are shared in both and mindfulness-based practices, such as meditation, breathing, gentle movement, and relaxation.
Darius Bashar
Deniz Altindas
Differences between sophrology and mindfulness
Generally, the two practices are very similar, with the common goal of introducing calm and balance to our lives. However, there are several important distinctions as well, that extend beyond the simple differences in how the techniques are practised.
In terms of their origins, mindfulness dates back thousands of years and is firmly rooted in Buddhist traditions. Sophrology, on the other hand, is much more recent, and is based on Eastern as well as Western techniques. It is important to note here, however, that “modern mindfulness” has also taken approaches from the West, in particular elements of cognitive and behavioural psychology.
Additionally, while mindfulness helps us live in the present, sophrology also gives importance to learning from our past and projecting ourselves into the future. Dominique Antiglio from BeSophro (the leading sophrology provider in the UK) explains:
“The key differentiate between sophrology and mindfulness or meditation is the ability to take control of how we handle situations and feel about outcomes, one of the principles in sophrology states that we can decide how we are going to experience certain events even when we can’t change them. We are therefore responsible for our experience and how we respond to situations. It is more dynamic than meditation and uses a number of techniques including breathing, relaxation, body awareness and visualisation to help you connect with your resilience and improve your mental and physical health.”
Sophrology allows us not only to feel more relaxed, present, open and focused everyday but also to prepare for future events and enhance performance.
Regularly practising Sophrology allows you to positively deal with the challenge of daily life finding purpose, balance and energy.
In essence, it helps people to unlock their full potential and to be at their best both professionally and personally.
Motoki Tonn
Dustin Dagamac
The benefits of Sophrology
Sophrology was initially only used in the medical world but from the 1970’s it quickly spread across Europe due to its far-reaching health benefits which include:
Improves Sleep
Releases Stress & Anxiety
Increases Energy
Focuses the Mind
Maintains & improves health
Makes life easier & more enjoyable is the science of consciousness in harmony.
Stress Management -
Lack of focus, anxiety, mood swings, difficulty sleeping, relationship concerns, tension, prevent burn out and exhaustion.
Self Development -
Learn to relax and let go, feel in control, build confidence, think positively, find clarity and purpose
Preparing for Events -
Speeches, interviews and exams, medical procedures, major celebrations (weddings etc.), stage or sport performances.
Personalise your experience
At BeSophro, the individual sessions are highly tailored according to specific needs and last an hour and will include a personalised recording of the practice to take home.
The sessions generate a real sense of change and improvement as well as offering a friendly environment.
They suit those who wish to try Sophrology, perhaps for the first time, in a shared and supportive setting and those wanting the time and space for regular practice. During these sessions, the Sophrologists teach simple techniques that you can also work on at home. BeSophro offers a number of sessions for all types of groups whether you’re interested in a 50-minute taster session, a Sunday morning workshop, a regular class or perhaps a retreat. https://be-sophro.com/
Jon Flobrant