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Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT)

EMOTIONAL FREEDOM TECHNIQUE

EFT is a simple and practical method for reducing stress. EFT is also called tapping and the philosophy behind it is that all negative emotions are caused by disturbance of the energy system. Treatments like acupuncture and acupressure assume that our energy flows through meridians.

Physical and emotional complaints are the result of blockades of this energy flow. As with these age-old treatment methods, EFT uses pressure points.

Tapping

Exerting gentle tapping, pressure (energy or internal heat) causes transfer of electrons through the body. This stimulates the nervous system. The ‘tapping’ of acupressure points then sends stress reduction signals to that part of the brain, which is triggered by fear.

Trauma processing

For our ancestors, it was very important to remember traumatic events. This increased survival chances. Our subconscious mind does not distinguish between real threat or just imagined danger. In case of a psychological trauma, the body continues to send stress signals to the brain, even after the danger has passed. EFT works well with many complaints, including pain and anxiety. It’s therefore, very suitable for treating trauma. The goal of EFT is to eliminate energy blocks and integrate unpleasant memories into daily life. The starting point in this therapy is that you accept – from the very beginning – who you are and what you experience. This is why it’s so effective. Acceptance is key in the recovery of complaints.

After EFT treatment, feelings of safety and a sense of ‘being at peace’ are felt. It gives the feeling of being an observer and no longer a participant in the traumatic event. A vague reminder can now become very clear, or a clear memory can just fade away.

At the practice I frequently use EFT as part of trauma healing, anxiety reduction and other problems caused by emotional suppression.

‘The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.’ (Carl Rogers, 1961)


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