In our fast-paced world, emotional overwhelm, stress, and anxiety have become common experiences for many people. Whether it’s lingering past traumas, everyday tension, or a buildup of emotional energy, finding ways to release that inner weight is vital for overall well-being. One increasingly popular method that’s gaining attention in both holistic and mental health circles is Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) – also known as “tapping.”

What is EFT Tapping?

EFT, or Emotional Freedom Techniques, is a self-help method that combines elements of cognitive therapy with gentle tapping on specific acupressure points on the body. Think of it as emotional acupuncture without the needles. The process is based on the belief that negative emotions and unprocessed trauma disrupt the body’s energy flow, leading to physical and emotional imbalances.

By tapping on these meridian points while focusing on specific thoughts or emotions, EFT aims to restore balance, release energy blockages, and bring a sense of emotional freedom.

How Does EFT Work?

The practice typically involves:

• Identifying the emotional issue you want to work on (e.g., anxiety, fear, guilt, pain).

• Rating the intensity of the emotion on a scale from 0–10.

• Repeating a setup phrase like: “Even though I feel [emotion], I deeply and completely accept myself.”

• Tapping on a series of meridian points – such as the side of the hand, eyebrow, under eye, collarbone, and more – while verbalizing feelings or affirmations.

As you tap and express the emotion, many people notice a gradual reduction in the intensity of their feelings. It’s a non-invasive, easy-to-learn technique that can be done virtually anywhere.

The Science and Research Behind EFT

While EFT might sound a bit “out there” to some, it’s been the subject of numerous clinical studies – with promising results. Research has shown that EFT can be effective in:

• Reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD

• Improving sleep and emotional regulation

• Lowering cortisol levels (the stress hormone)

• Enhancing feelings of calm and relaxation

In fact, some therapists now integrate EFT into their clinical practices as a tool for trauma recovery and emotional resilience.

How EFT Complements Reiki Healing

If you already receive Reiki sessions or are familiar with energy healing, EFT can be a powerful companion practice. Both modalities share the goal of clearing energetic blockages and promoting holistic wellness. Reiki provides a passive, deeply restorative flow of energy to the body, while EFT is more active – allowing you to engage with and process emotions consciously.

For example, you might use EFT before a Reiki session to release a specific fear or emotional burden, helping you enter the session more open and receptive. Or, after a Reiki treatment, tapping can help reinforce and continue the healing work.

Getting Started with EFT

You don’t need to be an expert to begin tapping. There are plenty of free online tutorials, videos, and resources that walk you through the basic tapping points and how to structure your sessions. As with anything healing-related, consistency and intention are key. Start by exploring EFT on small everyday stresses, and you may be surprised at how quickly it helps shift your energy and mindset.

Giving You Freedom

EFT is a simple yet powerful technique that empowers you to take emotional healing into your own hands. Whether used on its own or in tandem with Reiki healing, it offers a pathway to greater balance, emotional clarity, and personal peace. If you’re looking for another way to support your mind-body connection, EFT might just be the tool to help you tap into your emotional freedom.