Seven-time F1 champion Schumacher was critically injured in a skiing accident on December 29 and has been in a coma at the University Hospital of Grenoble for the past month.
However, in a statement released to the media on Thursday, Schumacher's manager Sabine Kehm confirmed progress is being made.
The statement read: "Michael's sedation is being reduced in order to allow the start of the waking up process which may take a long time.
"For the protection of the family, it was originally agreed by the interested parties to communicate this information only once this process was consolidated.
"Please note that no further updates will be given.
"The family of Michael Schumacher is again requesting to respect their privacy, and to not disturb the doctors treating Michael in their work.
"At the same time, the family wishes to express sincere appreciation for the world-wide sympathy."
Schumacher was put into a medically-induced coma by doctors after operations to remove blood clots from his brain.