EFT Tapping: A Simple Technique for Stress & Emotional Wellbeing
Updated: Oct 2
We all experience times when we feel stressed, anxious or overwhelmed. Over the years, I have found it helpful to have a few simple techniques that I can use myself when I need a moment to reset.
One of these is EFT Tapping – Emotional Freedom Techniques.
I was introduced to EFT some years ago and have used it personally as a simple way of helping me manage feelings of stress and anxiety. I wanted to share it with you as another tool you can try at home.
What is EFT Tapping?
EFT is a self-help technique that combines focusing on a particular thought, feeling or emotion with gentle fingertip tapping on a sequence of points on the face and body.
A typical tapping sequence involves identifying what is bothering you, noticing how strongly you feel it, using a short phrase relating to that feeling and gently tapping through a series of points.
The technique is simple, doesn't require any equipment and can be practised at home.
Can EFT Help With Stress and Anxiety?
Research into EFT is continuing. Studies have reported reductions in anxiety and psychological stress following EFT, and some research has also found changes in physiological measures such as cortisol. However, researchers have highlighted limitations in the existing evidence and the need for further high-quality studies. PubMed
For that reason, I think of EFT as a complementary wellbeing technique rather than a replacement for professional mental-health or medical care.
Sometimes simply taking a few minutes to stop, acknowledge how you're feeling, breathe and focus on a repetitive exercise can be a useful addition to your wellbeing routine.
Try EFT Tapping at Home
I've created a simple EFT Tapping Guide showing the tapping points and taking you through the technique step by step.
Download Your Free EFT Tapping Guide →
You don't need to worry about doing it perfectly. Start with something simple, such as feeling stressed about a busy day, and notice how you feel before and after completing the sequence.
If you would like to explore EFT further, EFT International provides free introductory resources, tapping instructions and information about accredited practitioners. Their current introductory guidance describes EFT as a self-help method that can be used for stress and difficult emotions. EFT International
A little note from me
I originally created this resource during the COVID-19 pandemic, when so many of us were looking for ways to manage uncertainty and anxiety. I've now updated it because stress hasn't disappeared just because lockdown has.
Whether you're dealing with work, family life, health worries or simply feeling overwhelmed, I hope you find the guide useful.
Vicki x
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