Owing to the ails that threaten our health, many seek alternatives that allow us to be healthy in body and mind, for this reason Sophrology has always been an excellent means for such purposes. Despite being an unknown art by many, it can bring substantial benefits to those engaged in this practice.
The Sophrology word consists of three roots that come from Greek: “sos” which means balance; “Phren” body-mind unit; and “logos,” study. Therefore, etymologically speaking, it means the study of the mind-body balance. In its broadest definition, we can say that it is a technique of training and studying the human consciousness, which seeks to promote harmony between our inner and outer worlds; drawing upon different techniques and methods of breathing and relaxation, through which the psycho-physical health of the person is promoted.
This technique was developed in Madrid in the 1960s by the psychiatrist Alfonso Caycedo; however, it was until the 1970s that came to the public eye. Therefore, the 10 year gap caused the plagiarism of these techniques by some medical professionals. Moreover, those who came to change the method by procedures represent a psychiatric risk. Aware of this, to look after its reputation and differentiate his method the rest, he appointed it as Caycedian Sophrology.
The basic method used in this technique is called Relaxation Dynamics Caycedo (DRC). It is a series of more than 40 techniques of physical and mental relaxation, inspired by “yoga” Buddhism and “Zen”; which have been adapted to Western culture and its needs, divided into 12 degrees, each with strategies and techniques that facilitate the management of the state of mind and consciousness.
Based on this method, Sophrology can be used as single or adjunctive therapy in health sciences, either to treat pain, prenatal preparation in the treatment of anxiety disorders, psychiatry, physiotherapy, preparation of top athletes, psychosomatic disorders, rehabilitation, gastroenterology, oncology, memory problems, interviews preparation, examinations, and treatment of chronic diseases, among many others.
Regular practice can bring many benefits among which are: increasing concentration; a positive and serene attitude to life is obtained; effective management of stress, depression, anxiety, fears among others; improves self-confidence; it helps to treat eating disorders like bulimia or anorexia; it helps to overcome vices and addictions; it is use as an effective treatment of phobias and insomnia treatments, helping to have more pleasant dreams.
These are just some of the benefits offered by Sophrology, but might surprise you the range of options that can cover, thus, regardless your age or physical condition, you can restore the balance between body and mind, adopting it as part of your life; and incredibly, we assure you will notice the results from the first session.
Interesting I wasn’t aware of the sophrology technique. Definitely we should try alternative treatments.