By Marc Dellière, Medical Consultant & Trainer – Specialist in Stress, Prevention & Integrative Health
As healthcare professionals, we know that stress is not just a buzzword: it is a major risk factor for cardiovascular, metabolic, immune, and mental health. In response to this, sophrology has found its place as a regulatory tool.
Physiologically
- Activation of the parasympathetic nervous system (breathing, muscle relaxation) → lower heart rate and blood pressure.
- Reduction in cortisol (stress hormone) observed in several studies.
- Improved cardiac coherence (increased heart rate variability), a recognized indicator of better emotional regulation.
Psychologically and cognitively
- Develops body awareness (breathing, sensations, relaxation).
- Learning refocusing techniques (positive visualization, projecting oneself into a situation with more resources).
- Reduction in anxiety, improved sleep, better mental recovery.
On a practical and social level
- Simple and accessible tool, can be used in guided sessions or independently (after learning).
- Adaptable: in the workplace, at school, in medical practices, to support chronic illnesses.
- Promotes prevention: learning relaxation reflexes before stress becomes pathological.
Key takeaway Sophrology acts as a bridge between relaxation, mindfulness, and mental preparation. It empowers patients where stress has taken away their power.
Learn more about Lactium for stress management!
Scientific sources :
Unlike hypnosis or meditation, sophrology remains relatively understudied in international scientific literature.
· Van Rangelrooij, S., Verhoef, J., De Jonge, P., & Roest, A. M. Effectiveness of a 4-week sophrology program for primary care patients with moderate to high anxiety levels: randomized controlled trial. Family Practice, 2020, vol. 37, n° 6, p. 779-785.
🔗 PubMed
· Grevin, J., Pons, Y., & Leroy, M. First assessment of sophrology for treatment of subjective tinnitus. European Annals of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Diseases, 2020, vol. 137, n° 4, p. 303-307.
· 🔗 PubMed
· Romieu, M., Allouche, M., & Curatolo, N. Efficiency of physiotherapy associated with Caycedian sophrology on children with asthma: a randomized controlled trial. Revue des Maladies Respiratoires, 2018, vol. 35, n° 3, p. 264-272.
🔗 PubMed
· Silva, A. G., Lourenço, P. A., & Oliveira, A. S. Sophrology versus resistance training in women with fibromyalgia: a randomized clinical trial. European Journal of Integrative Medicine, 2019, vol. 28, p. 77-84.
🔗 PubMed