Emotional freedom technique (EFT) is a treatment for physical pain and emotional distress. It can also be referred to as tapping or psychological acupressure.
It has been found that, by tapping the body on specific points, we can create a balance in your energy system and treat pain. According to its developer, Gary Craig, a disruption in energy is the cause of all negative emotions and pain. EFT tapping is also used to treat people with anxiety, eating disorders, depression, fears and phobias, addictions and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
EFT can be described as acupuncture without the needles. It is also taught during the treatment session so that it is passed on, giving you a helpful tool which can be used when needed outside of the therapy space. It is shared and offered as a healing gift. People using EFT tapping are often referred to as ‘happy tappers’ and for good reason !
Similar to acupuncture, EFT focuses on the meridian energy points to restore balance to our body’s energy. By restoring this energy balance, we can relieve symptoms caused by negative experiences or painful emotion.
Based on Chinese medicine, meridian points are thought of as areas in the body that energy flows through. These pathways help balance energy flow to maintain good health and well-being. Any imbalances in this energy system can result in disease or sickness.
As acupuncture uses needles to apply pressure to these energy points, EFT uses fingertip tapping. Stimulating the meridian points through EFT tapping can reduce the stress or negative emotion you feel from your issue, restoring balance.
There are 5 basic steps to an EFT session. They are as follows ;