Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), commonly known as tapping, was developed by Gary Craig and based on Chinese medicine’s acupuncture process. Its purpose is to rid the body of stuck emotional energy. EFT uses the fingertips to put kinetic energy on specific meridians of the head and chest while a person thinks about a specific problem and voices affirmations. The combination of tapping and positive affirmations short-circuits emotional blocks, thus restoring the balance essential for optimal health and well-being.

The benefits of EFT include lowered blood pressure, heart rates and anxiety. It can also relieve depression, increase dopamine levels, eliminate cravings and addictions, release fears, improve concentration and confidence, and release mental and emotional blocks. Making peace with unresolved emotional issues in this way brings more clarity and freedom for improved decision-making, enjoyment and fulfillment.

While there are varying styles of tapping as designed by different practitioners, the basic tapping points remain the same. The karate chop (side of hand) point is followed by points on the top of head, eyebrow, side of the eye, under the eye, under the nose, between the mouth and chin, under the collarbone and various ribcage points, all used in succession. Use whichever hand and whichever side of the body is most comfortable.

To begin, the person must speak to the negative emotion or physical pain by naming what he or she is feeling, for example “All of this anger and rage” or “This pain in my back.” As the emotion or pain is alleviated, the person can then speak to that lesser level of pain, as in, “I’m feeling relief, feeling lighter, feeling less pressure.” Eventually, the person can move into tapping in better emotions, such as, “I am loving the lesson in all of this. This isn’t so awful. I feel strong and capable to handle this.” The key lies in speaking to the felt emotions or physical pain and being willing to experience them at least for a few minutes. Tap for five to seven seconds at each point and tap through the rounds as needed until there is a release of the pain or emotion. The body and mind will indicate when it’s finished with a subject. The person can then ask, “One to 10, how angry am I still?” If the mind gives a number below four, there is probably no longer an emotional charge about the issue. If the number is a four through 10, there is still work to do.

Relieving the body of energy comes in many forms, including yawns, giggles, hiccups and coughs. All of these are signs indicating that energy is moving through and out, and the process is working. While EFT tapping is a safe practice for relieving emotional pain, large traumatic events may be best worked through with a practitioner whose style feels right. Their expertise can guide people through more difficult areas and facilitate a deeper state of healing.

Tam Veilleux is a Transformational Success Coach using EFT, NLP and other energetic therapies. For more information or a free consult, call 207-592-0377 or visit ChooseBigChange.com.