Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) was first developed by Gary Craig in the United States. EFT is a combination of Acupressure, Exposure Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. It’s a form of Energy Psychology that uses the bodies natural healing system to bring about a reduction of stress. I coach my clients to tap on acupressure points on the upper part of their body, while talking through their issues and this brings about a reduction of tension and stress. The result of this process is long lasting. The website www.eftuniverse.com has a large selection of videos that demonstrate the technique for a great variety of issues. It is quite simple once you have experienced it a few times.
Tapping on acupressure points creates neuro-chemical changes in the brain that facilitates a discharge of emotion. The emotional part of the brain is in the limbic system – the mid brain, the mammalian brain. Cats and dogs are mammals too and they enjoy being patted to help them feel calm and soothed. This is similar to how EFT works on the human body.
The meridian tapping produces a hormone called dehydroepiandrostone – DHEA. DHEA has been shown to reduce stress, increase energy levels, restore memory, increase libido, reduce body fat, fight cancer, heal burns, prevent heart disease, rejuvenate the immune system, treat menopausal symptoms and reduce wrinkles. Clinical studies have proven that meridian tapping reduces the level of cortisol in the blood as the DHEA is raised. EFT is very effective in reducing stress, anxiety, phobias, PTSD, obsessions, grief, depression, frustration, pain reduction and cravings for unhealthy foods, alcohol, drugs and cigarettes.