In the fast-paced world we live in today, it is crucial to discover tools that are both effective and user-friendly for handling stress and emotional difficulties.
A tool that is increasingly attracting interest is Emotional Freedom Technique, also known as EFT. Commonly called "tapping," EFT is a straightforward yet effective approach that includes tapping on particular body points while concentrating on a problem or emotion. Despite its unconventional nature, many people have experienced significant benefits in reducing stress, conquering fears, and enhancing their general wellbeing.
What is Emotional Freedom Technique?
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) operates on the simple principle that by tapping on specific points on the body, particularly on the head and upper body, individuals can effectively release emotional barriers. These points correspond to meridians, which are energy channels inspired by ancient Chinese medicine.
Through tapping on these points and concentrating on a particular concern, like anxiety, a distressing memory, or a restrictive belief, it is possible to soothe the amygdala, the brain region responsible for triggering the fight-or-flight reaction. This can lead to a significant reduction in emotional intensity and can even change the way you respond to the issue in the future.
EFT has proven to be a valuable tool for many challenges or issues.
EFT has also shown remarkable effectiveness in helping people break free from addictions and unwanted habits, such as smoking or overeating. It’s a popular choice for those looking to lose weight or eliminate cravings, offering a simple yet powerful way to regain control.
EFT has been used to manage fears and phobias, whether it’s a fear of flying, public speaking, or spiders. It’s also been used by athletes to enhance their performance and by performers to eliminate stage fright, allowing them to perform at their best with confidence.
EFT has been employed by armed forces across the globe and in disaster zones, helping military personnel and civilians alike to overcome the distress and trauma of their experiences.
Why You Should Give EFT a Try
As a hypnotherapist, I have witnessed the remarkable effectiveness of EFT for my clients. Whether you are facing stress, anxiety, or emotional barriers, EFT provides a flexible and efficient method to achieve tangible results. Here are the reasons why incorporating EFT into your personal self-care regimen could be beneficial:
Fast and Efficient: EFT is a quick technique that can produce significant results in a short amount of time. Whether you’re fitting it into a busy day or using it during a therapy session, EFT is designed to be both time-efficient and effective.
Easy to Learn: One of the great things about EFT is how easy it is to learn. After a few sessions, you’ll be able to use the technique on your own, empowering you to manage stress and emotions whenever you need to.
No Digging Into the Past: Unlike some therapies that require you to delve deeply into past traumas, EFT focuses on the present issue (and works alongside solution focussed hypnotherapy). This makes it a gentle approach that’s less likely to overwhelm you while still being highly effective.
No Belief System Required: EFT works regardless of your personal beliefs. You don’t need to subscribe to any particular philosophy or mindset for it to be effective. It’s a universal tool that works for everyone, no matter your background.
Suitable for All Ages and Abilities: Whether you’re young or old, highly intellectual or more hands-on, EFT can be effective. Its simplicity makes it accessible to everyone, making it a great option for families or individuals of all ages.
A Hypnosis Alternative: If you’re unsure about hypnosis or if hypnosis isn’t suitable for you, EFT offers a wonderful alternative. It doesn’t involve trance, touching, or suggestion, making it a comfortable option for everyone. Also it works really well in combination with hypnosis.
Not only is EFT an excellent technique to use during sessions, but it’s also a fantastic self-help tool for you to use on your own. Because EFT is so simple and easy to learn, you can quickly master it and start applying it whenever you feel the need. Whether you’re at home, at work, or on the go, EFT is a portable and practical tool that you can use to manage your emotions and reduce stress.
EFT and Hypnotherapy: A Powerful Combination
As a hypnotherapist, I often combine EFT with hypnosis to enhance the effectiveness of my sessions. While hypnotherapy helps you access and reprogram the subconscious mind, EFT allows you to directly engage with your body’s energy system. Together, these techniques create a powerful combination that can lead to profound and lasting change.
For example, during a hypnotherapy session, we might uncover deep-seated beliefs or traumas that are contributing to your current challenges. EFT can then be used to reinforce the positive changes made during the session, helping you to maintain progress and continue calming your mind long after the session has ended. This combination of techniques ensures that you receive the most comprehensive support possible.
Initially, I was quite sceptical about the effectiveness tapping, wondering if it was too good to be true. However, after giving it a try and experiencing the results firsthand, my doubts were dispelled. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that EFT actually worked!
Research also backs up its effectiveness. Studies have shown that EFT can significantly reduce symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and stress. For instance, a study published in the "Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease" found that EFT was particularly effective in reducing symptoms of PTSD in veterans, with some participants experiencing major improvements after just a few sessions. Another study highlighted in the "Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine" showed that EFT can lower cortisol levels—a key stress hormone—further supporting its role in stress and anxiety management.
Having a technique like EFT at your disposal can be incredibly empowering. Whether you’re looking to manage everyday stress, overcome a specific fear, or simply improve your emotional well-being, EFT offers a versatile, accessible, and highly effective solution. With research backing its benefits and endorsements from well-known figures, EFT is worth trying even if you're initially sceptical. Queen Camilla and the Duchess of Sussex have both have used EFT as well as Pink, Katy Perry, and many more.
The more well-known it becomes, the less it is simply thought of as a celebrity trend. Combined with hypnotherapy, it can offer profound and lasting change, helping you navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and resilience.
If you’re interested in exploring how EFT can work for you, I’m here to help you through the process and help you discover just how powerful this simple technique can be. Sometimes, the most effective solutions are the ones that seem the most unconventional—so why not give EFT a try?
If you’re curious about Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) get in touch to find out more.
Malcolm Struthers Hypnotherapy - Online and in-person in Dumfries & Galloway
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