A Beginners Guide To EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique)

Published on 10/09/2010. Written by Helena Fone.

What is EFT? How can I train in EFT? Your questions are answered here.

What is EFT? 

Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) is a revolutionary new therapy that's sweeping across the world because of the safe and effective way it relieves emotional and physical problems. It's often described as "acupuncture without needles" because it works by tapping on certain meridians on your body.  

Science tells us that when you experience something unpleasant or traumatic, your body's energy system becomes unbalanced. Whenever you're reminded of this memory or experience again, it will trigger off those negative emotions, feelings or thoughts.  Often these triggers cannot be controlled but this is where EFT comes in.  By tapping on those meridians whilst focusing on the negative triggers, your body's energy system can be restored.  Because many physical sypmtoms have an emotional link, once emotional issues are resolved, physical symptoms can disappear.  EFT is portable, easy to use, 

You can try EFT on practically everything.  Here are just a few other examples of what EFT can help with:

• Fears  (flying, dogs, heights, driving on motorways......)
• Anxiety (interviews, public speaking, auditions.....)
  
• Addictions (alcohol, chocolate, smoking, gambling, OCD....)   
  
• Sports performance
  
• Depression
• Phobias
  
• Children's issues (ADHD, Bed-wetting, Dyslexia....)
• Low self esteem
• Confidence
• Pain (headaches, migraines, arthritis, effects of chemotherapy........)  

What happens during a session?

Usually the Practitioner will offer you a consultation to give you the opportunity to discuss your problems and so that you can decide whether or not you feel comfortable working with them. During the session, the Practitioner may tap on your meridians (located on the face, collarbone, hands, under arm and top of head) or ask you to tap as you repeat certain words and phrases. You may be asked to roll your eyes, hum and count but don’t worry - this is purely to get your brain in gear!

How many sessions will I need?

That depends upon many factors. Some phobias can be cleared within minutes whilst abuse issues could take weeks. Compared to many other therapies, EFT is usually much quicker and longer lasting.

What will I feel?

Everyone experiences different signs and sensations when using EFT. Some of these sensations are tightness or tingling in the body, feeling light-headed, warm, emotional or just feeling very relaxed are others. None of these are harmful it’s just your energy moving around.

Can anyone use it?

Despite the amazing results you can achieve through EFT for a wide variety of psychological and physiological problems, EFT is a complementary therapy and should be applied responsibly. Don’t view it as a remedy or a substitute for medical treatment in the case of acute problems.

I hope this information has been of some benefit to you.  If you're interested in training as an EFT Practitioner or would like to know what qualifications you need to look for, visit the Training in EFT pages.

 

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