Q: Is Sophrology a therapy?

A: Sophrology is fully compatible with and complementary to other forms of therapy but does not replace or make for a psychological or medical follow up.

You can be referred to a sophrologist by a physician for a specific need and your sophrologist will conduct tailor made one-to-one sessions to help you. However, you can freely practice sophrology for your own experience of self-development.

Q: What should I expect from a one-to-one Sophrology session?

A: The first part of the session is there for you to express why you have come to see the Sophrologist and to dialogue with him/her in order to find the best possible way of approaching the present situation as well as answering a few simple questions regarding your current state of health. She/he will explain and then guide you through  exercises tailored to your needs that will involve simple body movements , relaxation exercises, use of concentration and visualization. You will be attentive to your body sensations throughout the process. The practical time of the session usually last between 15 to 40 min. depending on the level of your experience in Sophrology. The feed-back time, called phenodescription in the Sophrology vocabulary, is there to describe how you experienced the session and with the help of the Sophrologist, it  becomes an important moment in the process of self-discovery.

Q: What if I feel I can’t stay focused?

A: It’s very common to be distracted by thoughts and emotions at the beginning of a session . The more you practise, the quicker and easier it becomes to reach a deep, comfortable and relaxed state, called the “sophroliminal” level of consciousness. With regular training, you’ll be able to do so, even in a noisy environment such as public transport or sitting in the dentist’s chair.

Q: What is the frequency at which Sophrology should be practised?

A: It’s up to each individual to choose the frequency, but the more you practise, the more you achieve. A series of relaxing and energising exercises for 10 minutes a day could be sufficient, or a weekly class; or a combination of both. Regular practice is essential if you intend to reach a new inner balance and a better quality of life.

Q: Is Sophrology suitable for children? 

A: Sophrology can be taught to children from an early age by specifically trained Sophrologists.

Q: Do we have to share our own experiences in a group session?

A: Freedom is a fundamental value in the Caycedian method of Sophrology. Each participant can choose to share or not his/her experiences.

However, at the end of your session, you are invited to write or articulate your experience called ‘phenomena’, which is aiming to integrate your experience in your consciousness.

Q: What is the difference between group sessions and individual sessions?

A: 

In group sessions you benefit from the group dynamic and can enjoy a regular weekly practice.

In a one-to-one, the session is tailored to your specific needs at your own rhythm.

Q: Does Sophrology belong to a particular religion or belief?

A: Sophrology is a discipline independent from any doctrine or specific dogma and has no connotation with religious beliefs.