Emotional Freedom Technique or EFT, is a powerful stress relief technique based on the combined principles of ancient Chinese acupressure and modern psychology, namely, Cognitive and Exposure Therapies. Emotional Freedom Technique can be applied in sessions with a trained practitioner and as a self-help method, however, working with a practitioner is highly recommended for individuals with long-standing concerns or those who have experienced particularly traumatic events.
Stress triggers a part of the brain called the amygdala, which is responsible for initiating the stress response in our bodies, releasing stress-related hormones (adrenaline, norepinephrine and cortisol), into the bloodstream. Known as the fight-flight-freeze response, this is the body’s natural reaction to a perceived threat. When stress becomes chronic, the amygdala’s response gets stuck and low-risk situations trigger internal signals that the body is at high-risk, creating a feedback loop that can feel inescapable.
Emotional Freedom Technique is able to rapidly reduce the emotional impact of memories and incidents that trigger emotional distress, and as emotional trauma and stress effect both physical and emotional health, using this technique is a great way to effectively reduce stress and symptoms related to anxiety, depression, weight gain, sleep problems, pain, digestive issues, phobias, and many physical diagnoses.
The basic technique involves focusing on a negative emotion, situation or thought. This can be a fear, a worry, or any unresolved problem. While focus is held on this issue, specific meridian points on the body are activated by tapping on them using your fingertips. This combination helps your brain make new neuronal connections that link those thoughts or feelings with the understanding that you are not in any physical danger and it is safe to relax.
This then re-regulates the nervous system and boosts the immune system by putting the body back into the parasympathetic (relaxation) nervous system response. When this happens, stress hormones are reduced, allowing inflammation to drop and the immune system, digestive system, reproductive system, and endocrine system to all function more optimally.
Emotional Freedom Technique is an effective way to bring life back into balance and reduce stress around relationships, finances, weight, pain, fears, and so much more. The clarity that comes when balance is restored supports and creates greater inner calm and confidence.
