Sophrology: a clear mind in an alert body
Sophrology is a therapy that is new to the UK but has been very popular in the rest of Europe for more than 50 years. It is a modern technique that can be used for stress management, insomnia and anxiety but also to prepare for public speaking, the stage or to enhance sports performance. Sophrology is so popular in France, Spain, Italy, Switzerland and Belgium that it is used in a large variety of disciplines: in hospitals and medicine in general for pain relief, insomnia, to help patients with cancer, terminal diseases, Alzheimer's, addictions, depression, IBS and ME. It is also used by midwives for birth preparation, in sports to prepare for competition (be prepared for Sophrology-boosted Olympic teams), in arts to prepare for the stage, in schools to help children concentrate, in the corporate world for stress and fatigue, public speaking, self-development and confidence as well as prevention of Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI).
Sophrology can be used just as effectively by the busy business person or by someone lying in bed in hospital. A Sophrologist will give you exercises that you will be able to do on your own for example: thinking about breathing while you walk or wait for your computer to start, closing your eyes for a few seconds several times a day to regain energy, doing a little "pumping" movement with your shoulders every morning for a couple of minutes to help manage your stress.
Sophrology means the study of the consciousness in harmony. It is a healthcare philosophy made up of practical physical and mental exercises. It is inspired by Yoga Nidra, Buddhist meditation, Japanese Zen and classical relaxation techniques. It is a structured set of exercises that can be done either sitting down, lying down or even standing up. It is not a hands-on therapy. You are guided by the voice of the Sophrologist. You close your eyes and follow simple instructions to learn how to relax, experiment with different breathing techniques, use simple movements, imagine situations or colours, etc. If your body is relaxed, so if your mind. You learn to quiet the "little voice" in your head, to "switch off" at the end of the day. Sophrology can be done in a one to one session or with a group. More and more Sophrologists are opening practises in the UK but they are mainly based in London and the South of England. There is a growing demand for more practitioners. It is now possible to train to become a Sophrologist in Kent at the Sophrology Academy.
Florence PAROT
Director
The Sophrology Academy
Ashford, Kent
www.sophroacademy.co.uk
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