Sophrology Method Coaching And Self Help Ideologies

By Mark Jones


The self-help field has exploded over the last several decades in the United States and Europe. One of the lesser known self-help ideologies can be found in sophrology method coaching. In this practice, individuals practice remaining in a state of peace and harmony on an ongoing basis.

The practice, popular in continental Europe combining Eastern wisdom and Western science to help individuals sleep better, manage stress and explore the concept of mindful living has helped a number of Europeans. For, the practice uses the body and mind connection to create more harmony and balance in oneself and the surrounding environment.

When it comes to Sophrology, the word is defined as being the study of consciousness in a harmonic state. Whereas, the roots of the word come from the ancient Greek words Phren related to mind and SOS relating to harmony. As such, practitioners believe that the practice of living a peaceful existence comes down to remaining in a continuous harmonious state.

Developed in the 1960s by a Columbian neuro-psychiatrist and professor to help clients and individuals find serenity throughout daily life, it is a practice that is now even more popular in Continental Europe. In fact, the practice is now used in a number of psychiatric clinics and hospitals to help clients find peace and harmony without the need for drugs or psychiatric treatments.

At a conference in 1970, Caycedo suggested the method was born out of studies of the conscious mind. In addition, the psychiatrist also stated that the practice is a way of life, a philosophy, a personal development technique and a therapy. As such, the basic goal of the practice is for individuals to learn to how to truly live rather than existing in a depressed or traumatic state.

When the professor set out to explore different methods of healing for the first time, Western medicine was at the forefront. In addition, various aspects of Eastern wisdom were also included in the practice. After which, Caycedo began researching various techniques to create a relaxed state in clients along with phenomenology and other practices.

Out of all the practices reviewed by Caycedo, the professor kept the aspect of relaxation techniques and the mental method to incur mental peace. Together, individuals began to relax by learning how to relax by imagining and visualizing a calm and peaceful environment. After which, the psychiatrist created the word Sophrology and opened the first Department of Sophrology in 1960 at the Santa Isabel Hospital in Madrid, Spain.

While a popular practice in Europe, Sophrology is rarely used in other areas. Whether this is due to the multitude of other self-help methods or a lack of knowledge, it seems it is a practice that could be beneficial to individuals around the world. As such, the few whom are familiar with the practice are now hoping that others will become interested. For, if individuals can maintain a sense of harmony on an ongoing basis, it is hoped that the world will also become more peaceful and harmonious in the future.




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