Any positive action directed towards the body and mind has a positive impact on the being as a whole.” ~ Dr Alfonso Caycedo, Neuropsychiatrist

The key purposes of Sophrology are to find a route to physical and emotional wellbeing however the longer term result is the discovery of your inner light.  The body is considered as a whole, with mind and physicality connecting powerfully and with extraordinary influence. The study and understanding of this influence can be measurably positive across all resources such as thoughts, feelings, experience, memories, values.

Consciously, as one gains new perspective with regard to being alive and experiencing life fully, the senses are primed to reveal subtle nuances of the body and the environment. With this clear sense of ‘being’ everything is enhanced, including the opportunity to make the mind more aware, open and attentive.

The art of living

Sophrology is both a science and a philosophy. It is a combination of both physical and mental, focusing on different levels of consciousness and the effects on the body, and vice versa. In essence it has been refined and developed to reflect both Western (medicine, homeopathic, hypnosis and autogenic training) as well as Oriental culture (Yoga, Buddhism and the Japanese art of Zen).

Training begins with the physical, becoming aware of sights, sounds, feelings, breath as the body inhales and expels air, the existence and experience of each part of the body. This awareness is taught through the use of specific exercises that can be easily integrated into everyday life. Their purpose is to help the individual to relax, focus, manage emotions, build memory, nurture feelings of creativity and a growing sense of confidence and power to overcome obstacles.

This power of igniting our sense of purpose and confidence is always with us – but is often suppressed by past experience or negative memories. When we reach level 3 we take time to explore our memories and focus on those that made us feel positive, full of confidence, successful and full of energy.   Through various techniques we create a tremendous advantage for the individual seeking a greater control of mental perception and redirection of a more positive thought dynamic.

How the past can re-evaluate the future

  • In level 3 positive memories are welcome. We water the positive ones and let the others be.  We also use specific sophrology exercises  it to retrain our thinking and re-energise our positive thoughts. In fact, through this harvesting of positive memories can spur us to a completely new dynamic that will take us forward with determination and the courage.
  • The body doesn’t distinguish between reality and imagination. Body awareness can open a treasure trove of new possibilities.. The value of positive past experience lies in its ability to create solid foundations. It continues the work started in Level 1 of aligning the neural pathways towards the positive so that now the brain is instinctively looking to the positive in any situation. We are continuing to provide the mindset needed to make our dreams a reality through constructive

Sophrology sessions begin with simple breathing exercises and pauses

First step: Listen to your own breathing. You can do this at any time: walking, on public transport, before going to sleep. Ease anxiety while you concentrate on the pattern of movement in your body.

Second step: Be aware of every movement of your body: your shoulders, your chest as you breathe, your stomach as you find relaxation stealing over you.

Third step: Begin to observe without judgement, noticing how the body reacts to happy thoughts.  Where , in the body, are you noticing the expression of happiness. What does it feel like?  Heavy, light, tickly, warm, cold, etc.

Sophrology teaches you to become more aware, to think yourself into yourself, taking back control of your mental activity. Repetition of the short daily exercises realigns the neurons to be interested in happy, enjoyable thoughts and experiences.   In sophrology we ask questions like ‘If I did know the answer what would it be?`

Sophrology: an old route to a new you

Currently revitalised as one of the most popular wellness trends in the world, Sophrology translates to the “the study of consciousness in harmony”. It is essentially a holistic system, including physical and mental exercises, that promote health, well-being, relaxation, and a strong awareness of your own talents, dreams and life path.

Founded in the 1960s by Alfonso Caycedo, a professor of Psychiatry and Neurology in Madrid, Sophrology was first created to treat war veterans suffering from PTSD and depression. Combining techniques from Zen, yoga, meditation and hypnosis, the system allows participants to release and redirect challenging emotions. Positive effects include: more focus, less stress, better sleep, more self-confidence, improved chronic conditions, and greater happiness.

In 2006, Dorna Revie, founded Energy Centre, the first school in the world to offer Sophrologist diploma courses in English. Sophrology Center Online, the newest of Dorna’s projects, has been established to meet the growing demand from around the world.

The sophrology that Dorna teaches is called Sophro-Ki® Sophrology.