For those dealing with stress, emotional distress, or physical pain, EFT tapping can help. This alternative treatment option focuses on 9 meridian points of the body to relieve physical and emotional pain. Below we look at what EFT tapping is and how it works.
EFT tapping or Emotional Freedom Technique tapping, is psychological acupressure. This technique aims to create balance within your body through tapping specific points. EFT tapping is primarily used to treat anxiety and PTSD. However, other uses are currently being studied.
Using acupressure, EFT focuses on the energy hot spots or meridian points of the body. Based on Chinese medicine, these points are believed to bring balance to your overall energy and body. The pathways between the points help balance the energy flow, which in turn maintains your health. It is believed that any imbalance can lead to disease or sickness.
While acupuncture uses needles for acupressure, EFT tapping just uses your fingertips. The tapping helps you access your energy within and sends signals to the brain that relieve stress.
Luckily, EFT tapping is easy to learn, which can make it a great treatment option for those who are frequently anxious. Simply repeat the steps below until your stress levels decrease.
By identifying the source of your anxiety or fear, you can focus on it during the EFT process. It is key to have a focal point during treatment as it helps you to focus your energy.
Once you have a focal point, consider how intense the anxiety or fear is. Use a scale of 0 to 10 with 10 being most intense. This is your benchmark and will allow you to track your process between taps.
Next, you should establish a phrase addressing the abovementioned issue. Try the format of “While I have this (fear, anxiety, or issue), I accept myself for who I am.” By addressing the issue, and acknowledging it is not your fault, the healing is already beginning.
Now, focus on the issue above, and say the phrase you created. While doing this you will methodically tap each of these areas seven times. Make sure that you are always moving down the body.
Recite your phrase at each tapping point and repeat the sequence 2-4 times.
Once you have performed the EFT tapping sequence, it is time to rate the intensity level of your fear or anxiety. If you are still feeling anxious, but the intensity has reduced, repeat the process.
Various studies over the years show that this is an effective treatment for both PTSD and anxiety. In fact, EFT has been used to treat war veterans and active military for over 20 years. A recent study in 2022 also found EFT to be effective in increasing self-esteem and decreasing stress for those in the healthcare industry during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study saw a significant decrease in anxiety scores compared to other cognitive therapy types.
EFT tapping can help you reduce stress and anxiety, and studies are ongoing to investigate the effectiveness of other health issues. As with any treatment, be sure to discuss EFT tapping with your primary care doctor for proper tracking.
