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'Learning to live': why sophrology is the new mindfulness

https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/shortcuts/2017/nov/12/sophrology-new-mindfulness-learning-to-live

theguardian.com

'Learning to live': why sophrology is the new mindfulness
Feeling stressed, anxious, burnt out? Time to pause Headspace and allow us to introduce a technique from the 1960s instead

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Sophrology - the new mindfulness

A stress management technique that combines meditation, breathing and relaxation techniques with gentle movement and visualisation. It doesn’t require complicated postures or large amounts of time.

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Example of a sophrology exercise

Close your eyes, breathe in, and hold your breath for a few seconds while tensing up all the muscles in your body. Then, as you exhale, release all the muscles and let go, allowing the body and mind to slow down

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Sophrology is rooted in science

It was developed in Spain in 1960 by neuropsychiatrist Prof Alfonso Caycedo. It sits at the crossroads between western relaxation and eastern meditation, as a result of the struggle to find the best way to enable people to better manage stress, fear, anxiety.

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Breathing exercises

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4-7-8 Breathing

Created by Dr. Andrew Weil this is breathing exercise to help you relax: 
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How Do I Bring More Mindfulness Into My Life? - Mindful

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Have you ever started eating an ice cream cone, taken a lick or two, then noticed all you had was a sticky napkin in your hand? Or been going somewhere and arrived at your destination only to realize you haven't noticed anything or anyone you met along the way?

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Mindlessness

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Tips to practice Mindfulness

  • Allow your mind to wander and gently return awareness to your breath sensation.
  • Notice any tendency to be hard on yourself. See this kind of judgment and gently return awareness to your breath.
  • Embrace relaxation and being present with awareness.
  • Expect to notice more things, including more painful things.
  • Practice staying present. Stay open to all the possibilities in each situation.
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    • When starting a new activity

    Start a meeting with 2 minutes of silence, your attention focussed on your breath. Or take a few mindful breaths before starting your exercise routine.

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