Tapping Into the World of EFT

EFT, or Emotional Freedom Technique, was developed by Gary Craig, a former engineer from Stanford University, in the 1980s. He trained with Dr. Roger Callahan, the founder of Thought Field Therapy (TFT), and applied this method to his clients. Over time, Craig simplified the technique, realising that it wasn’t necessary to tap on as many meridians as was required in TFT. This led to the creation of EFT in the early 1990s.

Of all the energy therapies available, EFT is the most widely used and is gaining increasing interest. Why? Because it is simple, effective, long-lasting, and empowering. EFT truly exemplifies emotional self-care.

How does EFT work?

EFT, or Emotional Freedom Techniques, is a form of acupressure that targets the same energy points used in traditional acupuncture to address both physical and emotional issues. Like acupuncture, it aims to restore balance within the body and mind. While EFT is not classified as a psychological or physiological treatment, it occupies a central position within the triad of Mind, Body, and Spirit.

Did you know that there are approximately 361 acupressure points in the body? Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) focuses on a smaller number of these points. Traditional EFT uses the following points:

1. The Karate Chop point
2. Eyebrow
3. Side of the eye
4. Under the eye
5. Under the nose
6. Under the mouth
7. On the collarbone
8. The top of the head

When these points are tapped, they stimulate the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. The brain, which governs the body, sends messages through the spinal cord in response to the tapping.

Tapping Into the Past – the historic roots of tapping

The principles of tapping are rooted in the connection between the body and mind. This body-centred therapy appears in various disciplines. For example, yoga relies on this body-mind connection to help alleviate symptoms of psychological disorders. Acupuncture, which dates back to ancient China around 3000 years ago, is based on the idea that energy flows within the body through specific pathways. Small needles are used to stimulate certain points along these pathways. Although initially met with scepticism, acupuncture gained popularity in the 19th century, particularly in America and Britain.

Studies have shown that acupuncture can be effective in relieving certain conditions. Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) also stimulates these acupuncture points, but it does so without using needles. While EFT is part of the acupuncture family, it has its distinct features.

Putting EFT Into Practice

Tapping can be done individually, within a group setting or with a trained practitioner. If you like the sound of this, maybe consult one of our EFT courses at TT Training Academy.

Think of it as a portable therapy. EFT can be relied on in any time of need as it is a self-help technique. On a jam-packed, stressful day at work, tapping is always there to help you when you need it most.

Who can EFT help?

Research has proven EFT to be an effective treatment for our well-being, whether it is our mental, emotional, or physical well-being. Furthermore, researchers found that it improved the mental health of victims, war veterans, teachers, children, healthcare workers, those with extreme illness and even those who fell victim to natural disasters.

Not only can EFT improve mental health and emotional wellbeing, but it can also be an effective treatment for physical distress, such as regulating pain levels.

EFT and Anxiety

This therapy helps alleviate the side effects associated with anxiety, which can be both physical and psychological. Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) can lower your heart rate and blood pressure. It also helps regulate cortisol levels and calm your emotional state. Overall, EFT can contribute to a more positive state of mind.

Weight Loss

You might be surprised to learn that Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) can indirectly support your weight loss goals. This is primarily based on the idea of becoming a mindful eater. EFT can help reduce binge eating, improve your relationship with food, and increase your awareness of healthy eating habits. All of these factors can contribute to effective weight loss.

Pros and cons of EFT

Pros:

• Fantastic for Emotional Regulation
• Pain free
• Free to use anytime and anywhere
• Easy to learn

Cons:

• Should not be used in isolation to treat mental health disorders
• It can expose strong emotions in patients who have suffered trauma. Therefore, we recommend that you work with a professional EFT Practitioner.

Key Points

EFT stands for Emotional Freedom Technique, or tapping

EFT is a non-medicated treatment that utilises tapping of acupressure points to relieve symptoms of pain, stress, trauma and phobias

This therapy focuses on the touch of specific acupuncture points to regulate your emotional state.

This therapy can be carried out in isolation, with others or with trained practitioners. It can be utilised at any point of need, regardless of where you are.

Anyone at any age can use EFT

Should not be used in isolation to treat severe mental health disorders

EFT can help with things you may not expect, such as weight loss

EFT can help you!

If you want to speak to someone about working with our expert EFT Advanced Practitioners.