Overcome Overwhelm with EFT: A Beginner's Guide

Summary

In this video, Kathleen Rafter introduces Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), also known as tapping, as a powerful self-help tool to overcome overwhelm and negative emotions. Developed by Gary Craig in the 1990s, EFT combines cognitive behavioral therapy with acupressure to release blockages in the body's energy meridians. With over 300 peer-reviewed studies supporting its effectiveness, EFT is used by individuals worldwide, including Olympic athletes and those recovering from trauma. Kathleen walks viewers through a simple tapping process to alleviate stress and promotes calm, providing access to her free ebook for further guidance.

Takeaways

• 😀 EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques), also known as tapping, is a simple yet powerful tool to overcome emotions like overwhelm and fear.
• 😀 Developed by Gary Craig in the 1990s, EFT combines cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with acupressure from traditional acupuncture practices.
• 😀 EFT works by tapping on specific points on the body's meridian lines to release energy blockages caused by negative emotions or physical pain.
• 😀 Over 300 peer-reviewed studies have validated the effectiveness of EFT, showing it can be used for stress relief, pain management, and emotional well-being.
• 😀 EFT can be used by anyone, including athletes, trauma survivors, and even in situations of community crisis like tragedies or natural disasters.
• 😀 The tapping process involves nine key meridian points on the body, such as the side of the hand, top of the head, eyebrows, and collarbone, among others.
• 😀 To perform EFT, identify the emotion you're feeling (e.g., overwhelm), locate where you feel it in your body, and rate the intensity from 1 to 10.
• 😀 The setup statement in EFT starts with acknowledging the emotion (e.g., 'Even though I feel overwhelmed, I deeply and completely accept myself').
• 😀 EFT helps dissolve emotional blockages and brings a sense of calm and clarity, similar to the peaceful feeling after meditation.
• 😀 EFT is not a substitute for medical care, but can be used alongside medical treatments and therapy, particularly for emotional or physical pain relief.

Q & A

What is Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) and how does it work?

Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), often referred to as tapping, is a self-help technique that combines elements of cognitive behavioral therapy and acupressure. By tapping on specific meridian points on the body, it helps release energy blockages caused by negative emotions, limiting beliefs, or pain, promoting mental and physical healing.

Who developed EFT, and how does it differ from Thought Field Therapy (TFT)?

EFT was developed by Gary Craig in the 1990s. It is a simplified version of Thought Field Therapy (TFT), which was created by Dr. Roger Callahan. While TFT was more complex, Gary Craig modified it to create EFT, which is more accessible and easier to apply by individuals.

What are meridians, and why are they important in EFT?

Meridians are energy channels in the body that help maintain life through the flow of energy. In EFT, tapping on specific meridian points helps clear blockages in these energy pathways caused by negative emotions, stress, or pain, restoring balance and promoting emotional and physical well-being.

How is EFT used to relieve emotions like overwhelm?

In EFT, you begin by identifying the emotion you're experiencing, such as overwhelm, and locate where you feel it in your body. After rating the intensity of the emotion, you tap on various meridian points while focusing on the emotion. This process helps release the emotional block and restores calm and clarity.

How many techniques are there in EFT, and which one is most commonly used?

There are 48 different EFT techniques, but the most commonly used technique involves tapping on nine key meridian points on the body. This technique is effective in addressing a wide range of emotions and physical issues.

What are the nine meridian points used in EFT?

The nine meridian points used in EFT are: the side of the hand, top of the head, inside of the eyebrow, outside of the eye, under the eye, under the nose, above the chin, collarbone, and under the arm.

How does the tapping process work during an EFT session?

The tapping process starts by focusing on the issue at hand, followed by using a setup statement to acknowledge the emotion. As you tap on the meridian points, you express the emotion while acknowledging acceptance. After each round of tapping, you assess the emotional intensity and location to determine if further rounds are necessary.

What is the 'EFT glow,' and what does it signify?

The 'EFT glow' refers to the sense of calm, clarity, and centeredness people often feel after completing an EFT session. It's similar to the peaceful state achieved after meditation and indicates that the emotional block has been cleared, leading to a feeling of mental and physical balance.

Can EFT be used for physical pain, and how effective is it?

Yes, EFT can be used for physical pain. Many people report relief after tapping on meridian points associated with pain or discomfort. The technique has been shown to be effective, as it works to release energy blockages, which can reduce both emotional and physical pain.

What should someone do if they experience trauma while using EFT?

If someone is experiencing trauma, it is advised to seek professional guidance before attempting EFT on their own. A certified EFT practitioner can help guide them through the process safely. This is especially important for individuals dealing with severe or past trauma, as working through it may require additional support.