What is Emotional Tapping?
Emotional tapping, also known as Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), is a self-help method that combines elements of traditional Chinese medicine with modern psychology. It involves tapping on specific meridian points on the body while focusing on negative emotions or thoughts. The technique aims to reduce stress, anxiety, and other emotional issues by balancing the body’s energy system. Emotional tapping has gained popularity in recent years as a non-invasive and drug-free approach to healing emotional and physical problems.
Understanding the Concept
The concept of emotional tapping is rooted in the ancient Chinese practice of acupuncture, which believes that the body’s energy, or “qi,” flows through meridians. When this energy becomes blocked, it can lead to physical and emotional pain. Emotional tapping works by tapping on these meridian points to release the blockages and restore the flow of energy, thereby alleviating negative emotions.
During an emotional tapping session, the individual focuses on a specific issue or emotion, such as fear, anger, or sadness. They then tap on various points on the body, including the top of the head, the eyes, the sides of the eyes, the collarbone, under the arm, the wrist, and the top of the head again. While tapping, the individual repeats affirmations that address the issue at hand, such as “Even though I feel anxious, I deeply and completely accept myself.”
Benefits of Emotional Tapping
Emotional tapping has been reported to offer numerous benefits for individuals struggling with various emotional and physical issues. Some of the most common benefits include:
1. Reducing stress and anxiety: Emotional tapping can help individuals manage stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation and a sense of calm.
2. Alleviating pain: Some people have found that emotional tapping can help reduce chronic pain, such as that associated with migraines, fibromyalgia, and arthritis.
3. Improving sleep: Emotional tapping can help individuals fall asleep more easily and enjoy deeper, more restful sleep.
4. Enhancing self-esteem: By addressing negative thoughts and beliefs, emotional tapping can help individuals build self-esteem and confidence.
5. Overcoming phobias and fears: Emotional tapping has been effective in treating phobias, such as fear of flying or heights, by helping individuals confront and overcome their fears.
How to Get Started with Emotional Tapping
If you’re interested in trying emotional tapping, here’s a simple guide to get you started:
1. Find a quiet, comfortable place to sit or lie down.
2. Identify the issue or emotion you want to work on.
3. Tap on the following points while focusing on the issue: top of the head, sides of the eyes, under the eye, under the nose, chin, collarbone, under the arm, and top of the head again.
4. Repeat an affirmation that addresses the issue, such as “I am safe and supported.”
5. Continue tapping and repeating the affirmation for several minutes, or until you feel a sense of release or relief.
Remember, emotional tapping is a self-help technique, and while it can be effective for many people, it may not work for everyone. If you’re dealing with severe emotional or psychological issues, it’s important to seek professional help from a licensed therapist or counselor.
