What is sophrology?

Just as you work on strengthening muscles, sophrology trains your behavior, brain, and psyche leading to greater self-awareness, personal growth, physical and psychological relaxation. Sophrology encourages individuals to cultivate a deeper understanding of their thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations. As a gym floor instructor teaching fitness group fitness classes and personal trainer, I see sophrology  as a form of mental training, similar to how physical training improves the body's abilities and performance. 

How does it work? 

Sophrology is a structured method that blends various techniques such as dynamic relaxation exercises. These exercises are simple postures and movements based on deep abdominal breath, visualizations and positive thinking.

The second phase of a sophrology session is called ‘sophronisation’. It is a guided practice that leads the body and mind into a state of deep relaxation and heightened awareness. Using slow, abdominal breathing, body scanning, and positive visualization, this phase activates the parasympathetic nervous system, helping reduce stress hormones like cortisol and promote a calm, balanced physiological state (Porges, 2011).

Emerging neuroscience research shows that practices involving focused attention and interoception—such as sophrology—can enhance neuroplasticity, strengthen emotional regulation, and increase activity in brain regions linked to self-awareness and cognitive flexibility (Lazar et al., 2005; Tang et al., 2015).

Sophronisation serves as a bridge between physical relaxation and mental training, offering a powerful foundation for sustainable wellbeing and personal development.

I encourage you to think of sophrology as a way to boost your cognitive functions and transform negative thought patterns into positive ones, helping you achieve optimal well-being. 

Why try sophrology? 

Since its creation in 1960 and throughout the years, Sophrology has gained popularity in Europe, particularly in France and Switzerland, as a tool for anxiety management, stress management, chronic pain management, self-confidence and or self-esteem improvement. It helps with sleeping disorders, eating disorders, addictions (stop smoking), and getting ready for special events: work presentations, exams, weddings, competitions etc... It also provides valuable support for managing life’s key transitions, such as birth (both prenatal and postnatal care), grief, and menopause. 

In New Zealand, where wellness and personal development are highly valued, sophrology can serve as an effective tool to complement your physical fitness journey and help you cultivate a holistic, balanced life.