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Mindfulness Tapping / Emotional Freedom Technique

Updated: Nov 25, 2022


Introduction

Mindfulness tapping, or emotional freedom technique (EFT), is a type of mindfulness meditation that uses your fingertips to tap on certain points on your head and chest while you focus on your breath and the present moment.


The emotional freedom technique has been shown to be an effective way to reduce stress and anxiety, emotionally and psychologically heal, as well as help improve sleep quality. In addition, EFT may also help to increase feelings of happiness and well-being.


Mindfulness tapping, also known as EFT or emotional freedom technique, is a mindfulness practice that uses the fingertips to tap on certain points of the body while focusing on specific thoughts or emotions. Tapping is said to help release negative emotions and allow for a more positive state of mind.




What are the Body's Meridian Points?


The body's meridian points are energy pathways, which run throughout the body. These pathways are believed to be responsible for our emotional and physical well-being. When these pathways become blocked or restricted due to stress or negative emotions, it can result in physical and mental symptoms such as pain, fatigue, anxiety and depression.


When practicing mindfulness tapping (EFT), your fingertips will tap on these specific meridian points with each round of taps lasting several seconds and focusing on a particular thought or emotion.


Benefits of Mindfulness Tapping (Emotional Freedom Technique)

Mindfulness tapping has been shown to help reduce stress and anxiety levels by helping you focus on the present moment rather than worrying about the past or future. It can also help to reduce feelings of depression, loneliness and exhaustion.

In addition, mindfulness tapping has been found to improve sleep quality, increase positive emotions and decrease fatigue.

What are the 9 Tapping Points?

The 9 tapping points used in mindfulness tapping are:

1. The Side of your Hand

2. Top of the Head

3. Eyebrow Bone

4. Side of the Eye

5. Corner of the Mouth

6. Under the Nose

7. Chin Point

8. Collarbone Point

9. Under the Arm

Can EFT be Used to Reduce Anxiety?

Yes, EFT can be used to reduce anxiety. Studies have found that tapping can help to decrease levels of stress hormones in the body and also activate regions of the brain associated with positive emotions. Additionally, it may help to improve confidence and self-efficacy. It is important to remember that EFT should not be used as a replacement for professional help, but it can be a great tool to use in conjunction with other forms of therapy.


EFT to Reduce Stress

Mindfulness Tapping / Emotional Freedom Technique is an effective way to also reduce stress in our lives– both emotionally as well as physically, with the aim of increasing our overall well-being. Through tapping on the body’s meridian points, we can focus and concentrate on the present moment, instead of worrying about what has already passed or what may come in the future. Furthermore, Mindfulness Tapping can assist us to manage feelings such as depression, loneliness, and exhaustion while helping to improve our sleep quality and increase positive emotions. With dedication and practice, Mindfulness Tapping/ Emotional Freedom Technique can be a great way to help manage stress levels and take back control of your life.


Basic Steps

The practice of mindfulness tapping is relatively simple. You can either do it seated or standing, and you don't need any special equipment. Here are the basic steps:



1. Decide what you want to focus on. This could be a particular thought or emotion, such as worry or stress, or it could be a physical sensation, such as pain or tightness in the chest.

2. Tap with your fingertips on the following points while repeating a mantra or affirmation related to the issue you're focusing on:

- The top of the head (point #1)

- The eyebrow bone (point #2)

- The side of the eye (point #3)

- The corner of the mouth (point #4)

- Under the nose (point #5)

- The chin (point #6)

- The collarbone (point #7)

- Under the arm (point #8)



3. Take a deep breath and relax for a moment when you're done.


Where Can One Perform EFT

Mindfulness tapping can be done anytime and anywhere, and it's a great way to quickly release negative emotions and promote a more positive state of mind.


The Benefits of EFT

The emotional and physical benefits of EFT are well documented, but it’s important to remember that the technique is not a substitute for medical care. If you have any questions or concerns, seek professional advice from a licensed practitioner. Additionally, while it may be tempting to use EFT as a way to avoid dealing with uncomfortable emotions, this approach can be counter-productive and make the issue worse in the long run.


It is also important to remember that everyone’s experience with EFT will be unique – what works for one person may not work for another. So take your time and find what works best for you! With patience and practice, EFT can help you on your journey of self-discovery and emotional freedom.


Benefits of Mindfulness Tapping

Mindfulness tapping has many potential benefits, including reducing stress levels, improving overall well-being, and helping to cope with difficult emotions. It can also help to improve focus and concentration, as well as increase positive thinking. Additionally, EFT may help to reduce or even eliminate physical pain.


Focus on the present

Mindfulness is a practice that helps you focus on the present moment and be in the here and now. It can be done through different techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or mindfulness tapping (also known as EFT or emotional freedom technique).

Mindfulness is about being aware of your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings. When you're mindful, you're more present and less likely to get caught up in negative thoughts or emotions. This can be helpful in dealing with stress, anxiety, or pain.

There are many ways to practice mindfulness, and each person may find their own method that works best for them. Some people find it helpful to meditate regularly, while others may prefer to do yoga or mindfulness tapping. The important thing is to find a method that you can stick with and that helps you focus on the present moment.


The leaders of mindfulness tapping are Gary Craig and Dr. David Lake. Gary Craig is the founder of EFT, and Dr. David Lake is a leading expert on the use of EFT for anxiety and stress.


Performing EFT is Simple

The practice of mindfulness tapping is relatively simple. You can either do it seated or standing, and you don't need any special equipment.

Here are the basic steps:

  • Decide what you want to focus on. This could be a particular thought or emotion, such as worry or stress, or it could be a physical sensation, such as pain or tightness in the chest.

  • Tap with your fingertips on the following points while repeating a mantra or affirmation related to the issue you're focusing on: The top of the head (point #1) - The eyebrow bone (point #2) - The side of the eye (point #3) - The corner of the mouth (point #4) - Under the nose (point #5) - The chin (point #6) - The collarbone (point #7) - Under the arm (point #8)

Concentrate

Mindfulness tapping can be done anytime and anywhere, and it's a great way to quickly release negative emotions and promote a more positive state of mind. When you're finished with the tapping, take a deep breath and relax for a moment. This will help you calm down and center yourself.

  • Concentrate on a specific problem or emotion that you want to address with EFT.

  • Make sure you're in a comfortable position, either seated or standing.

  • Tap with your fingertips on the following points while repeating a mantra or affirmation related to the issue you're focusing on: The top of the head (point #1) - The eyebrow bone (point #2) - The side of the eye (point #3) - The corner of the mouth (point #4) - Under the nose (point #5) - The chin (point #6) - The collarbone (point #7) - Under the arm (point #8)

  • Take a deep breath and relax for a moment when you're done.

  • Repeat as needed until you feel relief from the negative emotion or sensation you were focusing on. Write a list of 1-10 creative ideas for how to perform EFT

  • Tap on your head while thinking about the issue you want to address

  • Tap on your heart while thinking about the issue you want to address

  • Tap on your stomach while thinking about the issue you want to address

  • Visualize tapping energy moving through your body while addressing the issue

  • Use affirmations along with your taps, such as "I am in control of my emotions" or "I am now releasing this negative emotion."

  • Imagine a golden light surrounding you and flowing into your body as you tap

  • Sing or hum a mantra while tapping

  • Say out loud what you're tapping on each point for extra emphasis

  • Keep a journal of your thoughts and feelings during EFT sessions for further analysis later

  • Use different-sized balls (or any other type of object) to tap on different points – this can add an extra dimension of stimulation and fun!

Beginning Your EFT Session


When you begin your EFT session, take a moment to focus on what you would like to achieve:

  • This could be releasing a specific emotion, reducing pain or tension, or simply calming the mind.

  • Having a clear intention will help to keep you focused and motivated during your session.

  • Visualizing the negative emotion or sensation leaving your body as you tap can be helpful in promoting positive change.

  • Putting essential oils on the points you tap can be soothing and add an extra layer of relaxation.

  • Tapping along to music or sounds of nature can help to relax your mind and body.

  • Doing a guided EFT session with a certified practitioner can help to ensure you are doing the technique correctly.

  • Tapping on different points of the body can help to release emotions or sensations that are stuck.

  • Combining EFT with other mindfulness practices, such as meditation or yoga, can amplify the effects.

  • Keeping a journal of your EFT experiences can help you to track your progress and see positive changes over time.

  • Sharing your EFT journey with others can help to inspire and motivate them to try it for themselves.



What are the Side Effects of EFT?

EFT is generally well tolerated and has few side effects. However, some people may experience a temporary increase in emotional intensity as they begin to process their emotions more deeply. This is natural and will usually pass within a short period of time. Other possible side effects could include headache, fatigue, nausea, dizziness or insomnia. If any of these symptoms occur, it is important to seek medical advice. EFT should not be used as a replacement for professional medical care or psychological counseling.


It is also important to be aware that the use of EFT can bring up old traumas or negative memories that may have been suppressed for years. It is best to proceed slowly and take extra precautions if you find yourself in this situation so that you can work through your feelings in a safe and healthy way.


Practicing EFT on a regular basis can help to reduce anxiety, depression and other negative emotions, as well as promote physical healing. With its growing popularity, more research is being done into the effectiveness of EFT for various conditions, and the results are promising. If you’re looking for an effective way to manage stress or improve your overall mental health, give EFT a try!

Where to Find EFT Practitioners


Finding a licensed practitioner for EFT can help to ensure that you are getting the most out of your practice. Look for certified practitioners through organizations like the Association for Comprehensive Energy Psychology (ACEP), or search online directories such as FindaTapper.com and MindBodyGreen. Additionally, many local yoga studios and wellness centers offer classes or workshops on EFT.


When looking for a practitioner, it's important to find someone that you feel comfortable with and whose qualifications match your needs. Be sure to read reviews and check out the practitioner’s credentials before booking an appointment.


Conclusion

EFT is a powerful tool that can be used to reduce stress and anxiety, cope with difficult emotions, and promote emotional freedom. With consistent practice, you may find yourself feeling more balanced, calm, and in control – no matter what life throws at you! With regular practice, EFT can help to promote a more positive state of mind, increased self-awareness, and improved well-being. Try it today to see the impact EFT can have on your life. So why not give it a try? It could just be the thing you need to make your life more balanced.

 

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Please seek medical attention if you have any concerns or questions about your health.


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