Letting go safely: understanding the altered state of consciousness in sophrology

Sophronization, a key technique in sophrology, safely guides you toward an altered state of consciousness. Learn how to relax deeply while remaining fully conscious, to better manage stress and emotions. This natural and benevolent inner space helps you regain balance and serenity in your daily life.

What is sophrology? A definition and overview of the main techniques

The term “sophrology” has its roots in three Greek words: *sos* (harmony), *phren* (consciousness, mind), and *logos* (study, science). Literally, sophrology means “the study of consciousness that promotes harmony between body and mind.” This discipline promotes overall well-being based on awareness and inner balance.

Without going into detail, it is useful to know that Caycedian sophrology, as taught by Professor Alfonso Caycedo, is based mainly on two broad categories of tools:

Codified dynamic relaxation techniques (RDC), adapted to Western culture, which combine body movements and breathing, based on the body schema as a lived and felt experience.

Specific techniques, which include visualization, breathing, and muscle contraction exercises, allowing you to work on specific goals such as releasing tension or mental preparation.

Dynamic relaxation comes in several degrees, each inspired by ancestral spiritual and physical traditions, offering a progression towards an increasingly global and profound awareness:

- First degree: Inspired by Hindu yoga, it aims to develop knowledge and awareness of the body. It invites you to focus on physical sensations, release tension, and discover mental imagery.

- Second degree: Influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, this degree broadens consciousness to the perception of the body in space and time. It encourages self-contemplation as an observer, knowledge of one's personality enriched by the five senses, and the formulation of positive wishes for oneself and others.

- Third degree: Derived from Japanese Zen practices, it focuses on the whole body and mind, integrating the individual into the universe. It offers meditation with the body, going beyond simple concentration.

- Fourth degree: This level focuses on meditations centered on life values, inviting deeper and more existential reflection.

Specific techniques allow for targeted work, for example on positive somatization, the release of unnecessary tension, preparation for a future event, or the deconditioning of limiting patterns.

Caycedian sophrology is practiced exclusively in a standing or sitting position, thus promoting active body awareness. The lying position belongs to “evolutionary sophrology,” developed by André Daprey, which offers a complementary approach.

Letting go safely: understanding states of consciousness in sophrology

Embarking on a sophrology session, and more specifically sophronization, can sometimes raise questions or even resistance. It is natural to wonder whether you will lose control, or whether this altered state of consciousness is safe. The good news is that sophrology, as conceived by Professor Alfonso Caycedo, is a safe, progressive practice that respects your physical, mental, and emotional integrity.

What is sophrology?

Sophrology is a guided technique that invites you to enter an altered state of consciousness, an inner space between wakefulness and sleep, where the body and mind are deeply relaxed, but where consciousness remains clear and alert. This particular state is conducive to self-exploration, deep relaxation, and working on sensations, emotions, and thoughts.

Contrary to popular belief, sophrology does not cause you to lose awareness of yourself. You remain fully present, with a sense of security and control. You can interrupt the session at any time if you wish, and you are always in control of your experience

States of consciousness according to Alfonso Caycedo

To better understand what you experience during sophrology, it is useful to know Caycedo's classification of states of consciousness. He distinguishes several levels, ranging from ordinary consciousness to deeper states, which can be gradually accessed through sophrology practice

1. Ordinary waking state

   This is the state in which we spend most of our time. Our mind is active, often distracted by thoughts, emotions, or external stimuli. Our consciousness is focused on the outside world, and our body is in a state of tension to a greater or lesser degree.
   

2. Sophroliminal state (or mild altered state of consciousness)

   This is the state we aim for during sophrology. Here, consciousness turns inward, the body relaxes, and attention becomes more focused. You are both relaxed and lucid, able to observe your sensations without judgment. This state is similar to the one we experience just before falling asleep or upon waking, but you remain in active control.
   

3. Sophro-subliminal state (or state of deep relaxation)

   Deeper than the previous state, this state allows access to inner resources that are often overlooked. The perception of time and space may change, and bodily sensations become more intense or more subtle. However, consciousness remains clear, with great emotional stability.
   

4. Sophronic state (or state of expanded consciousness)

   This is an advanced state, accessible to regular and experienced practitioners. Consciousness extends beyond the body to a global and harmonious perception of oneself and one's environment. This state promotes creativity, deep serenity, and a more intimate connection with oneself.

Why is this state safe and beneficial?

Sophrology, with its gentle progression and caring guidance, leads you step by step toward these states. Each session is designed to respect your pace, comfort, and safety. You never lose control, and your consciousness remains alert.

What's more, this altered state of consciousness is natural and common in our daily lives—it is not a hypnotic state in the strict sense, nor is it a loss of control. On the contrary, it is an inner space where you can reconnect with yourself, release tension, and welcome your emotions with kindness.

Let yourself go with confidence

To reduce your resistance, it is important to remember that sophrology is a practice that respects your integrity.

You are accompanied by a trained sophrologist who ensures your comfort and safety. You always have the option to interrupt the session or express your feelings.

Let yourself be carried away by the gentleness of sophrology, as if you were being rocked by a calm wave. Each breath anchors you further into this state of conscious relaxation, where your body and mind can recharge in complete serenity.

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