Sophrology: what is this therapeutic method and how to exercise it?

Sophrology was created in 1960 by a Spanish neuropsychiatrist of Colombian origin, Alfonso Caycedo. He is looking for a way to deal more humanely with mental illness, electroshock and the coma insulin then being the treatments commonly used. Little by little, he comes to develop a new discipline which he calls “sophrology”.

What does sophrology consist of?

Sophrology is a gentle method that uses several techniques combining breathing exercises, relaxation, mental imagery (or visualization) and meditation. The patient performs body movements and muscle relaxation. The goal of this discipline is to acquire personal well-being and to get to know each other better. Its practice is psycho-physical training focused on positive inner thinking and an optimistic relationship with the outside world. This therapeutic method is accessible to children from 4 years old, women and men of all ages.

How are sophrology sessions carried out?

A relaxation therapy session lasts about an hour. It can be practiced individually or in a group. If it can be exercised in autonomy, it is more common to be accompanied by a certified professional, in an office, at home or even in a company. The first session, called ” history Is generally devoted to an individual interview between the professional and his patient. It consists of identifying the needs and expectations of the latter and determining the most suitable approach to achieve the set objective.

In general, the sessions begin with a phase of exchange between the sophrologist and his sophronizer and continue with exercises guided by the specialist: breathing work to release body tensions, phase of static relaxation guided by the voice of the patient. sophrologist then deep relaxation with mental imagery. A session ends with a last exchange allowing the sophroniser to express his emotions.

What are the virtues of sophrology?

Sophrology allows physical relaxation which leads to a psychological well-being. It brings greater serenity on a daily basis and improves certain well-targeted situations such as disorders of the sleep, eating disorders, stress, pains, phobias, mourning … Sophrology can also prepare for a very particular event (childbirth, exam, job interview…) and accompany certain treatments of pathologies heavier.

How to become a sophrologist?

Obtaining the Certification professional sophrologist allows you to practice sophrologist profession. Listed in the National Directory of Professional Certifications, it demonstrates the seriousness of the professional. Several schools provide this training, considered as a soft alternative medicine: the Sophrology Training Institute, the Professional Sophrologist Training Center, ISEBA, EFS …

Sophrologists mainly practice on their own, their salary therefore depends on multiple parameters including their reputation and the number of sophronisants received daily. A relaxation therapy session is billed on average € 50, however, a salaried professional in a medical establishment can expect to receive between € 1,500 and € 2,000 gross monthly and € 3,000 gross monthly at the end of their career.