What is EFT?​
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​​Emotional Freedom Technique, often referred to as "Tapping," is a powerful mind-body practice that combines the principles of traditional Chinese medicine with modern psychology. It is a self-help tool that can be used to manage emotions, reduce stress, and address a wide range of psychological and even physical issues.
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The core of EFT is based on the idea that disruptions in the body's energy system contribute to negative emotions and physical discomfort. By using your fingertips to gently tap on a specific sequence of meridian points—the same points used in acupuncture—you can help to restore balance and calm your nervous system.
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What to expect in a session:​​
An EFT session typically involves a few key steps:
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Identify the Issue: You begin by focusing on a specific problem or emotion that is bothering you, whether it's anxiety about a presentation, a stressful memory, or a physical ache. You rate the intensity of this feeling on a scale of 0 to 10.
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Create a "Setup Statement": While tapping on a specific point on your hand (the "karate chop" point), you say a phrase that acknowledges the issue while also affirming self-acceptance. A common format is: "Even though I have this [issue], I deeply and completely accept myself." This step is crucial for acknowledging the problem without being overwhelmed by it.
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The Tapping Sequence: You then tap through a series of points on your face and upper body—including the top of your head, eyebrows, side of the eye, under the eye, under the nose, and more—while repeating a short reminder phrase related to your issue.
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Re-evaluate: After a round of tapping, you re-rate the intensity of your feeling. The goal is to see a reduction in the number, and you can repeat the process until the intensity is low or gone.
How EFT can help:​​
EFT is not a magic cure-all, but it is a proven and effective tool for emotional regulation. By stimulating these acupressure points, you are essentially sending a calming signal to the brain's stress center, the amygdala. This can lead to a measurable reduction in stress hormones like cortisol and a decrease in the intensity of your emotional distress.
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Some of the key benefits of using EFT include:
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Stress and Anxiety Relief: It can quickly calm your nervous system, helping you feel more relaxed in moments of stress or panic.
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Healing from Trauma: While it's not a replacement for professional therapy, EFT can be a powerful tool for gently processing and neutralizing the emotional charge associated with past traumatic memories.
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Overcoming Negative Emotions: It can help you release feelings of anger, guilt, sadness, or frustration.
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Breaking Bad Habits: By addressing the underlying emotional triggers, EFT can be used to help with cravings and other unwanted behaviors.
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Promoting Self-Acceptance: The core principle of self-acceptance embedded in the "setup statement" helps to build a more compassionate relationship with yourself.
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EFT is a safe, simple, and empowering technique that gives you an active role in your own healing and well-being. Within a few sessions, you will have the tools and experience you need to carry this powerful technique with you for the
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Contact us for a free 20-minute consultation to find out more.