EFT: Emotional Freedom Technique

✅ What Is EFT (Tapping)?

EFT is a self-help method that combines elements of:

  • Cognitive therapy (focusing on a specific emotional issue)

  • Exposure therapy (bringing the problem to mind)

  • Acupressure (tapping on specific meridian points on the body)

The idea is that tapping on these points while focusing on distressing thoughts or emotions helps rebalance the body's energy system and reduce emotional intensity.

🔄 How EFT Works (Basic Process)

The standard EFT sequence includes the following steps:

1. Identify the Issue

2. Rate the Intensity

3. Setup Statement

Tapping Points:

  1. Eyebrow (EB)

  2. Side of the Eye (SE)

  3. Under the Eye (UE)

  4. Under the Nose (UN)

  5. Chin (CH)

  6. Collarbone (CB)

  7. Under the Arm (UA)

  8. Top of the Head (TH)

4. Re-rate the Intensity

After one or more rounds, check how intense the feeling is now.
Continue tapping until the number decreases significantly or reaches zero.

💡 What EFT Can Be Used For

  • Stress, anxiety, and overwhelm

  • Physical pain (back pain, headaches, etc.)

  • Phobias and fears

  • PTSD and trauma

  • Limiting beliefs

  • Cravings and addictions

  • Confidence and performance anxiety

🎯 Does It Work?

  • Anecdotal evidence is strong — many people report quick emotional relief.

  • Clinical studies suggest EFT can reduce cortisol (stress hormone), and it's been used in therapy for PTSD and anxiety.

  • The mechanism is still debated in mainstream psychology, but it’s generally safe to try and easy to learn.