Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) Tapping is a holistic healing technique that combines elements of traditional Chinese medicine and psychology to help individuals overcome emotional and physical issues. By tapping on specific energy meridian points on the body while focusing on negative emotions or physical sensations, EFT Tapping can help to release emotional blockages and promote healing.
In this article, we'll explore the origins of EFT Tapping, the science behind the technique, and how it can be used to improve emotional and physical health.
The Origins of EFT Tapping
EFT Tapping was developed in the 1990s by Gary Craig, a Stanford engineering graduate and personal performance coach. Craig drew inspiration from various healing practices, including acupuncture, neuro-linguistic programming (NLP), and Thought Field Therapy (TFT).
Craig simplified the TFT technique by replacing the need for complex algorithms with a basic tapping sequence on key energy meridian points. He called this technique Emotional Freedom Techniques or EFT Tapping.
Craig's EFT Tapping technique quickly gained popularity, and today, it is used by practitioners worldwide to help individuals overcome a wide range of emotional and physical issues.
How Does EFT Tapping Work?
EFT Tapping is based on the idea that negative emotions and physical sensations are the result of an imbalance in the body's energy system. According to traditional Chinese medicine, this energy flows through the body along meridians, or pathways, that connect to specific organs and body parts.
When this energy flow is disrupted, it can result in emotional and physical issues. EFT Tapping aims to restore the balance of the body's energy system by tapping on specific energy meridian points, which stimulates the flow of energy and promotes healing.
The Science behind EFT Tapping
While the theory behind EFT Tapping is based on traditional Chinese medicine, the scientific evidence supporting the technique is growing.
Studies have shown that tapping on specific energy meridian points while focusing on negative emotions or physical sensations can help to reduce cortisol levels, which is the hormone associated with stress. This reduction in cortisol levels can help to decrease the intensity of negative emotions, such as anxiety and depression.
Research has also shown that EFT Tapping can help to reduce physical pain. In one study, individuals who received EFT Tapping reported a significant reduction in pain compared to those who did not receive the treatment.
Another study found that EFT Tapping can help to reduce food cravings, which can be helpful for individuals struggling with weight loss or unhealthy eating habits.
The Basics of EFT Tapping
To perform EFT Tapping, you'll need to first identify the issue you want to address. This could be a negative emotion, physical sensation, or limiting belief. Once you've identified the issue, you'll need to rate the intensity of it on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being no intensity and 10 being the highest intensity.
Next, you'll need to create a setup statement, which is a phrase that acknowledges the negative emotion or physical sensation while also affirming self-acceptance and self-love. For example, "Even though I feel anxious about giving a presentation, I deeply and completely accept myself."
Then, you'll begin the tapping sequence. You'll tap on each energy meridian point while repeating a reminder phrase, which is a shortened version of your setup statement.
The tapping sequence includes the following energy meridian points:
Karate Chop Point: This is on the side of the hand, between the wrist and the base of the little finger.
Eyebrow Point: This is on the inside of the eyebrow, closest to the bridge of the nose.
Side of the Eye Point: This is on the bone that is on the outside of the eye, between the eyebrow and the temple.
Under the Eye Point: This is on the bone that is directly below the pupil.
Under the Nose Point: This is between the nose and the upper lip.
Chin Point: This is in the crease between the lower lip and the chin.
Collarbone Point: This is on the collarbone, about an inch down from the base of the neck.
Under the Arm Point: This is about 4 inches below the armpit.
Top of the Head Point: This is on the crown of the head.
After completing the tapping sequence, you'll take a deep breath and rate the intensity of the issue again. If the intensity has decreased, you'll repeat the tapping sequence until the intensity reaches 0.
It's important to note that while EFT Tapping can be done on your own, it's recommended to work with a trained practitioner to help guide you through the process and provide support.
Benefits of EFT Tapping
EFT Tapping has been shown to have a wide range of benefits for both emotional and physical health. Here are just a few examples:
Reducing Anxiety and Depression: EFT Tapping has been shown to help reduce anxiety and depression by reducing cortisol levels and promoting relaxation.
Improving Sleep: EFT Tapping can help to promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can lead to better sleep.
Managing Pain: EFT Tapping has been shown to help reduce physical pain, making it a useful technique for individuals with chronic pain.
Reducing Food Cravings: EFT Tapping can help to reduce food cravings and promote healthier eating habits.
Overcoming Phobias: EFT Tapping can be effective in helping individuals overcome phobias, such as a fear of flying or public speaking.
Improving Self-Esteem: EFT Tapping can help to improve self-esteem by promoting self-acceptance and self-love.
Conclusion
EFT Tapping is a powerful technique that can help individuals overcome a wide range of emotional and physical issues. By tapping on specific energy meridian points while focusing on negative emotions or physical sensations, EFT Tapping can help to release emotional blockages and promote healing.
While the science behind EFT Tapping is still evolving, the evidence supporting the technique is promising. Studies have shown that EFT Tapping can help to reduce cortisol levels, decrease the intensity of negative emotions, and reduce physical pain.
If you're interested in trying EFT Tapping, it's important to work with a trained practitioner who can guide you through the process and provide support. With regular practice, EFT Tapping can help you to overcome emotional and physical issues, leading to a happier and healthier life.