Emotional freedom technique (EFT) is an alternative treatment like acupuncture wherein a person restores the energy balance in one’s body. EFT focuses on meridian points or the parts of the body where energy flows. But unlike acupuncture, EFT doesn’t require needles. Instead, a person will tap their meridian points. This technique can help people who experience anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and other problems. Here’s how EFT is done:
1. Identification
The first step is to think about the problem or negative feeling you currently want to resolve. Try to focus on only one because you can repeat the process if you have other problems you wish to address.
2. Intensity Test
On a scale of 0-10, 10 being the worst, rank the intensity of the issue you have right now. This scale will serve as a benchmark for when you rate the effectiveness of the technique. The goal is to get a ranking of 0 after one or more tries.
3. Reminder Phrase
Come up with a reminder phrase. It should acknowledge the issue you are currently experiencing, and you must accept yourself despite it. An example would be: “Even though I have [current problem/feeling], I completely accept myself.”
Once you have your reminder phrase, begin tapping the karate chop point, the outer hand's center. Do this while repeating your reminder phrase.
4. Tapping Sequence
While reciting the phrase you’ve come up with, tap on the specific points on your body. The sequence goes from top to bottom:
Top of the head (TOH)
Inner eyebrow (EB)
Side of the eye (SE
Under the eye (UE)
Under the nose (UN)
Chin point (CH)
Inner collarbone (CB)
Under the arm (UA)
5. Final Intensity Test
After the tapping sequence, you will rate your intensity level once more from 0 to 10. As established in the initial test, the goal is to reach 0. If the level now is lower than the first one, then you’re making some progress. Don’t worry because you can repeat the process until you reach your goal of having a 0 for your intensity rating.
Emotional freedom technique helps you balance the disrupted energy in your body. If you’re feeling down, you can try this out. This technique has been used as an alternative therapy for anxiety and depression for many years. However, you must still seek professional advice. You can reach out to Postpartum Parent Network if you are experiencing any negative emotions and wish to be assessed further. Contact us today, and we’ll be happy to help you.