Emotional Freedom Techniques (tapping)

“When our emotional health is in a bad state, so is our level of self-esteem. We have to slow down and deal with what is troubling us, so that we can enjoy the simple joy of being happy and at peace with ourselves.”

Jess C Scott

This week I have been discussing “Emotional Freedom Techniques” EFT or tapping as a way of assisting decrease symptoms of stress, anxiety or pain. 

Once learnt, this technique can be utilised in the comfort of your own office or home and is very effective in managing stress, anxiety and pain.

I first heard about tapping many years ago and initially I was sceptical.  So, I canned the idea and went merrily on my way.

Then a few years later, I researched it more.  Read more about it (have still the many books that I read) and started investigating more.  I went to a three-day workshop where I further explored these techniques, and I am very happy that I did. The results that I had seen at the workshop were astounding and I have continued to be amazed how this assists not only my clients, but also myself.

Peta Stapleton, who is an Australian Clinical Psychologist has conducted research on Emotional Freedom Techniques and the results are very encouraging.  A study by her team has highlighted that the cortisol (stress hormone) levels are reduced by 37%, anxiety reduced by 40% and pain reduced 57%.  These results alone are really encouraging.

EFT has been described as a form of exposure therapy, cognitive behaviour therapy and somatic stimulation as it utilises meridian or acupuncture points to release the stress. 

In a nutshell, you measure the stress that the “issue” is causing you.  State the problem and add a positive statement.  You then begin tapping on the points, noting what is happening with this issue, the feelings, the emotions or sensations.  After a couple of rounds, check in and see if the measure is still the same.

Like any skills, you need to practice it a few times to see if it works for you.  I know that it is an efficient and effective technique that works for many people – not only in Australia, but around the world.

What is the worst thing that could happen if you gave it a go?

As always, if you would like some more information – reach out.