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Health Disclaimer

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The content on Sophrology Guide is for general information and education only. It isn’t medical advice, and it isn’t a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a doctor, psychologist, midwife or other qualified professional.

Sophrology is a complementary practice

Sophrology is a relaxation and personal development method. It can be used alongside medical and psychological care, but it isn’t a treatment for any disease or mental health condition. Never stop or change a prescribed treatment because of something you’ve read on this site.

Take extra care if any of these apply to you

Talk to your doctor before starting a new relaxation practice, and tell any sophrologist you work with, if you:

  • are pregnant
  • have a heart condition, high or low blood pressure, or a breathing condition such as asthma
  • have epilepsy
  • have a psychiatric condition, or a history of trauma or abuse
  • have recently had surgery or an injury

Relaxation techniques are generally considered safe for healthy people, but occasionally people report negative experiences such as increased anxiety, intrusive thoughts or a fear of losing control. There have been rare reports of relaxation techniques causing or worsening symptoms in people with epilepsy, certain psychiatric conditions, or a history of abuse or trauma.

During any exercise

  • Keep breath holds short and gentle, or skip them altogether.
  • Stop if you feel pain, dizziness or breathlessness, and breathe normally.
  • Stand near a chair or a wall, or practice sitting down.
  • Keep your eyes open if closing them feels uncomfortable.
  • Never practice while driving or doing anything else that needs your full attention.

In an emergency

If you think you may be having a medical emergency, contact your local emergency services immediately.

If you’re having thoughts of harming yourself, contact your local emergency number or a crisis line right away. In the US, you can call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. In the UK and Ireland, you can call Samaritans free on 116 123, at any time of day or night.

Your responsibility

By following any exercise on this site, you accept responsibility for your own practice. Sophrology Guide and its owner aren’t liable for any injury, loss or health problem that results from using the information on this site.