When my anxiety was at its worst, it felt like the ground wasn’t even there. I’d get this strange floating sensation, like I might faint any second, combined with a deep sense of dread. In moments like these, I was desperate for anything that might provide some relief, even if only for a few minutes. That’s when I stumbled upon Emotional Freedom Technique, also known as EFT or “tapping.”
What is EFT (Tapping) and How Does It Work?
EFT involves gently tapping on specific points on the body, similar to acupressure but with a modern twist. The process is simple—you tap on certain areas (like the top of the head, the inner eyebrows, below the eyes, under the nose, and on the collarbone) while speaking about your emotions. You can say these phrases out loud or in your head. The exercise usually starts with acknowledging your anxiety or discomfort and then shifts to positive, reassuring statements.
The entire process only takes a few minutes, making it a quick and accessible technique to try when you’re feeling overwhelmed. It’s a short, mindful exercise that combines physical touch and affirmations, helping you break the cycle of anxious thoughts.
My Experience with EFT: Great for Short-Term Relief
Does EFT actually work? For me, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. I found EFT to be quite effective for short-term relief. On days when my anxiety felt unbearable, I’d spend about 10 minutes tapping, and I’d notice a genuine sense of calm afterward. It didn’t cure my anxiety in a lasting way, but it did help take the edge off in those moments when I needed it most.
One of the reasons EFT worked for me might be the way it forces you to focus on something specific. The combination of tapping and speaking pulls your attention away from spiraling thoughts, almost like a mental reset button. It’s more engaging than simple breathing exercises, which I also use, but EFT adds a physical element that feels grounding.
The only downside? Tapping isn’t exactly subtle. It’s not something I feel comfortable doing in public, unlike deep breathing exercises, which are far more discreet.
Can EFT Help with Long-Term Anxiety Management?
Proponents of EFT believe it taps into energy points in the body, based on concepts from traditional Chinese medicine. The idea is that tapping, combined with verbal affirmations, helps release energy blockages that may contribute to anxiety. Some even claim that it rewires the brain’s response to stress over time, offering a deeper, lasting impact.
Personally, I didn’t experience any major long-term changes from EFT. It’s possible I didn’t practice it consistently enough, but for me, it hasn’t replaced other core strategies in my anxiety toolkit. However, I do see its value as a quick intervention during a panic attack or moments of intense stress.
Should You Try EFT for Anxiety Relief?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or in the middle of a panic attack, EFT can be worth a try. It’s a low-risk, simple technique that may help you feel better in just a few minutes. There are plenty of short videos online that can guide you through the process step by step, making it easy for beginners to get started. While it’s not a magic wand, it can be a helpful tool to have on hand for immediate relief.Welcome to WordPress. This is your first post. Edit or delete it, then start writing!