Frequently
Asked Questions

Working one-to-one with us is the ideal way to address specific concerns (physical or emotional) in a therapeutic context, or to prepare for a particular event, helping you feel calmer and more able to cope with what’s to come. Our BeSophro clinics provide a safe and confidential space where you can benefit from our highly tailored approach to support you with Sophrology. We all have different needs and situations to deal with, so our initial conversation will allow us to assess and understand your needs, and give us a chance to tailor your Sophrology practice. Through her voice, your Sophrologist will then guide you into a state of dynamic relaxation where your body feels relaxed, yet your mind remains fully alert. In this enjoyable state, specific breathing exercises, visualisation and gentle movement will help you unlock your potential.

As the session ends, your Sophrologist will encourage you to describe how you felt during the practice (phenodescription) in terms of sensations, perceptions or images. She will also discuss with you specific exercises that you can take away with you or practise on the go. A recording of your guided practice will be provided to you, so that you can continue your practice at home in between sessions, as Sophrology works best if practiced regularly.

A typical session lasts about one hour. The guided practice lasts between 10 to 30 minutes. To work on a specific issue, it is usually recommended to do about five sessions, giving you enough time to learn the basics of Sophrology and to put them into practice in your daily life. The aim of Sophrology is that after a while, you become independent with the method. After the initial learning, you have a tool for life, something you can reuse in many situations. You may then decide to do more sessions depending on your motivation and goals.

BeSophro individual sessions are available in English or French.

An individual session is tailored to your individual needs and progresses at a pace to suit you. It is a more therapeutic approach than the group sessions as our Sophrologists work closely with you, over a period of time, to address specific issues.

In group sessions you benefit from the group dynamic and meeting with like-minded people. Group sessions also give you the chance to enjoy a regular practise of different methods and exercises (e.g. stress management or one of the 12 Levels).

It depends on the type of class and aim (see more information in events). Group sessions can range from £20.

Freedom is a fundamental value in the Caycedian method of Sophrology. It is up to you to decide if you want to share your experiences when you are invited to write or articulate your experience (phenodescription) as a way of developing your awareness.

No, just come as you are! You might want to think through what problems you are dealing with and what you want to achieve, but don’t worry about it. Our Sophrologists will gently guide you towards an understanding of Sophrology and how the method can help you.

Please note that you do not have the right to cancel a session under the Consumer Contracts Regulations, but we will allow you to cancel any time up to 48 hours before the time of the session. If you cancel later than this, we will not refund you any Charges paid by you. Please see section 9 of the terms and conditions for more information. Please also note section 6.4 which advises you that the session is not a substitute for seeking professional medical advice.

Being able to relax is an important part of any session, therefore it’s helpful if you aren’t hungry or thirsty. Equally, it’s advisable not to eat or drink too much just before a session.

Sophrology does not involve active exercise although you are likely to do simple breathing exercises and gentle movements, whilst standing or sitting. There is no need for special clothes; just come as you are. You are welcome to wear very casual / comfortable clothes if you wish.

Then Sophrology is perfect for you and anyone who struggles with meditative practices! Sophrology offers an easy way to develop focus notably making it accessible through more active standing exercises, which quieten the mind and ground you in your body. For more on this subject see our blog “Mindfulness for people who think they can’t meditate”. (https://be-sophro.com/mindfulness-for-people-who-think-they-cant-meditate-3/)

That depends on you. Clear benefits are usually seen after only a few sessions. You might want to book a trial session to see how it feels and talk to our Sophrologists about what you want to achieve. BeSophro also offers packages of individual sessions to deal with particular issues and events – again she can discuss these with you.

Sophrology is a structured step-by-step method including 12 levels or degrees of practice. The 12 levels are in a set order and you need to practise each one before going to the next. Our Sophrologists will make sure you start at Level 1 but you don’t have to do all 12 Levels. Some people will only do Level 1 for stress-management, balancing energy levels, and enhancing body awareness, presence and focus. Others do all the Levels to explore the method in greater depth. Sophrology also includes specific techniques aiming at unlocking specific resources, or tailored to specific situations. To read more about this see our blog post ‘The 12 degrees of Sophrology’ (https://be-sophro.com/the-12-degrees-of-sophrology/)

It’s up to you, but the more you practise, the more you benefit. A series of relaxing and energising exercises for 10 minutes a day could be sufficient, or a weekly class, or a combination of both. If you are attending an individual session our Sophrologists will give you further guidance on how to practise to address your specific issues.

Sophrology is fairly new to the UK. It is very well established in many other European countries and is now growing in popularity here. If you look in our press section, you will discover it has attracted a lot of attention recently, notably thanks to Dominique’s book, which is the first widely published Sophrology book in English language.

Sophrology is a self-development method based on a practice for body and mind. Sophrology can bring many benefits to feel calmer, empowered and in control. Sophrology is fully compatible with, and complementary to, other approaches but does not replace medical or psychotherapeutic treatment.

Sophrology is not a substitute for medical treatment so you should never stop taking medications without clear approval from your GP.

All approaches offer different benefits and it is for the individual to decide which might suit them best. The power of Sophrology lies in its combined approach – working on body and mind together to reach another level of awareness and wellbeing. Being in a state of dynamic relaxation makes it easier to focus the mind, enabling you to examine your physical and mental being at a profound level. You learn to take responsibility for your own life and health and how to deal with a range of issues and symptoms. Sophrology not only helps people to positively live the present moment but its practice include techniques to helps prepare for the future (including specific events), or overcome tensions from the past. It is an easy to learn method, something you can learn for a life time and apply in many situations.

For more information about Sophrology and other therapies, click here.

Sophrology is not strenuous and readily suits most people. Do contact BeSophro to find out more about Sophrology and what happens in a session. If they have any doubts about your ability to participate they will help you seek further guidance.

Yes, Sophrology can be taught to children from an early age. Our Sophrologists usually see children aged 6 years and above. Please do get in touch if you have more questions and want to book an appointment.

No, Sophrology is not connected with any religious beliefs. It is a discipline independent of any dogma or doctrine.