Is EFT Tapping (Emotional Freedom Technique) for You?

In 1995 Gary Craig introduced a tapping technique called EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique).  EFT tapping combines aspects of cognitive therapy, exposure therapy, and physical touch.

How does EFT tapping work?

Tapping utilizes connections between the body and the mind to address harmful thoughts and emotions. Tapping helps you access your body’s energy and send signals to the part of the brain that controls stress. EFT was used to help clients find relief from post-traumatic stress problems, persistent pain, and anxiety.

Based on Chinese medicine, meridian points are thought of as areas of the body energy flow through. These pathways help balance energy flow to maintain your health. Any imbalance or disruption in your body’s energy flow can influence mood, illness, and physical pain.

Meridian points for EFT tapping

EFT tapping uses the same energy points as in acupuncture. Stimulating the meridian points through EFT tapping can reduce the stress or negative emotion you are experiencing.

EFT tapping focuses on 8 meridians (acupressure) points: 

• Top of the head
• Eyebrow
• Side of the eye
• Under the eye
• Under the nose
• Chin
• Beginning of collar bone
• Under the arm

Many mood-related issues cause physical discomfort, this discomfort often triggers people to seek ways to alleviate their discomfort which oftentimes results in unhealthy practices and life choices. The fear and anxiety at the thought of addressing emotionally painful topics can be a significant barrier to someone seeking help for their discomfort.

Practical tool

EFT tapping is a soft approach and a practical tool that can empower clients in self-regulating their difficult emotions and thoughts. When we feel we have control over our bodies and our emotions we can improve, grow and begin to create and achieve goals for the life we want to have.

EFT is considered an evidence-based therapy for anxiety, depression, phobias, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).