1 The origins and fundamental principles of sophrology
Created in the 1960s by neuropsychiatrist Alfonso Caycedo, sophrology is a method of personal training that synthesises the best of Eastern traditions, including yoga, Zen meditation and Tibetan Buddhism, and Western sciences, including neurology, phenomenology and Edmund Jacobson's progressive relaxation. It aims to strengthen the positive structures of human consciousness in order to face life's stresses.
2 Session structure: body dynamics and sophronisation
An individual or group session begins with a preliminary dialogue to establish the day's intention. Dynamic relaxation follows: gentle, rhythmic movements synchronised with abdominal breathing to release accumulated physical tension. Then, sitting or lying comfortably at the sophroliminal level between wakefulness and sleep, the person is guided by the sophrologist's voice, known as terpnos logos, through affirming positive mental visualisation.
3 Applications: sleep, mental preparation and stress management
Sophrology is particularly indicated for overcoming insomnia, managing stage fright before public speaking or an examination, preparing calmly for childbirth, managing tinnitus or supporting demanding medical treatments. It offers simple exercises that can be repeated entirely independently at home or work.
4 Building independence: practising at home for lasting effects
Sophrology is not a passive therapy in which treatment is received, but an active education of consciousness. At the end of each session, the sophrologist encourages the person to practise the breathing and visualisation techniques at home for a few minutes daily, gradually integrating these calming responses into everyday routines.