Light & Energised 

Currently revitalised as one of the most popular wellness trends in the world, Sophro-Ki® Sophrology translates to the ‘the study of consciousness in harmony’. It is essentially a holistic system, including physical and mental exercises, which promotes health, awareness, well-being, relaxation and alertness. One of these exercises is also the ‘Pump Technique’.

The ‘Pump Technique’ 

Once we have learned the full range of life changing Sophrology Techniques, we are able to practice them on every occasion when we feel the need to slow down, re-energise or to simply experience over and over again the joy that each technique offers us. 

To reduce the physical effects of stress in moments of high tension we can use the ‘Pump Technique’. It is very useful for clearing our head and, for example before and after exams, long working hours, travel or even as a fun and entertaining exercise to do with our children.

Some of the positive effects of practicing Sophrology are:

  • Feeling Calmer
  • More Self-Confidence 
  • Increased Resilience
  • Less Stress & Anxiety
  • Greater Happiness 
  • Better Concentration
  • Better Sleep 

…and many more.

To reduce the physical effects of stress in moments of high tension is the ‘Pump Technique’. It is very useful for clearing our head and, for example before and after exams, long working hours, travel or even as a fun and entertaining exercise to do with our children.

Let’s Get Pumped!

  1. Stand tall with your arms to your side
  2. Close your eyes and keep your back straight 
  3. Prepare your mind to focus on tense areas in your body
  4. Clench your fists, take a deep breath, and hold the breath in
  5. Now pump your shoulders, lifting them up and down until you need to breathe out
  6. As you exhale, slowly relax your fists and visualise tension and anxiety draining away through  your arms, hands and fingertips.

Why is the ‘Pump Technique’ an excellent addition to our day?

Our brain cells can store only a very small amount of energy, which is why a continuous supply of oxygen is so important. The human brain weighs about 2% of our body weight, but it consumes about 20% of the oxygen we breathe. 

There are several reasons why our body and brain might not be getting enough oxygen. 

Some of these are:

  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Lack of exercise
  • Shallow breathing: Most people today don’t breathe well and are shallow breathers.
  • Stress and anxiety: When we are stressed and anxious, our sympathetic “fight or flight” response is activated, which reduces the amount of oxygen that reaches our brain. 

Oxygen is essential for life, and our brain depends on it more than any other part of our body. The oxygen boost therefore allows cells to manufacture that energy. If the brain cells don’t receive the required amount of oxygen when they need it, they can start to deteriorate, leading to poor memory and concentration, low mood, lack of energy and drive. 

The shoulder pumping action is one of many ways we can help oxygenate the brain and this added energy then allows our brain to repair, regenerate, and function better, improving our emotional health and cognitive performance.

Author: Dorna Revie, Master Sophrologist

References:

  1. U.S. National Library of Medicine: Blood flow and oxygen delivery to human brain during functional activity; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC34443
  2. University of Rochester Medical Center: Study Reveals Brain’s Finely Tuned System of Energy Supply; https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/news/story/study-reveals-brains-finely-tuned-system-of-energy-supply

The Sophrology Center in Switzerland was the first school in the world to offer the Sophrology Diploma Courses online and in English. It was established to meet the worldwide growing demands for Sophrology Courses as well as individual Sophrology Sessions.