In this post, we’ll unpack all you need to know about tapping, defining exactly what it is, how it works, the science behind it, the tapping points, how to use it and more.
What Is Tapping?
Tapping, also known as Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), is a therapeutic method that combines elements of cognitive psychology with acupressure to relieve stress.
How Does It Work?
Tapping works by stimulating specific meridian points — described as energy hot spots in Chinese medicine — which correspond to channels through which energy flows, influencing various aspects of mental, emotional and physical well-being
When these points are stimulated, signals are sent to the brain, triggering a relaxation response and facilitating the restoration of equilibrium within the body’s energy system.
What Is The Science Behind It?
The brain doesn’t know the difference between imagination and reality. Consequently, when you mentally simulate or physically encounter a perceived negative experience, it triggers the brain’s stress response.
Tapping interrupts this stress response and reprograms the brain and body to respond differently. It does this by rewiring neural pathways by associating the old negative memory with a new positive memory. With repetition, the brain learns that the experience is no longer a threat and ceases to trigger the stress response.
Working on psychological challenges by tapping on the meridian acupoints is part of a field known as energy psychology, which is seen as acupuncture without needles.
What Can It Be Used For?
Tapping can be used to reduce stress and anxiety, overcoming limiting beliefs, alleviate physical pain and symptoms, process negative emotions and events, improve sleep and enhance performance in various activities.
What Are the Tapping Points?
- Beginning Of The Eyebrow
- Side Of The Eye
- Under The Eye
- Under The Nose
- Chin
- Collarbone
- Under The Arm
- Top Of The Head
The same meridians run down both sides of the body. Therefore, you can tap with either hand on whichever side of the body feels most natural for you.
The Karate Chop Point
How To Use Tapping
Firstly, identify a challenge you’d like to address.
Secondly, assess the current level of intensity of your challenge on a scale of 1-10.
Thirdly, create a setup statement acknowledging the challenge and accepting yourself despite it. For example, “Even though [enter your challenge], I deeply and completely accept myself.”
Fourthly, recite the setup statement 3 times while tapping on the karate chop point of your hand.
Fifthly, recite the setup statement 5-7 times while performing the tapping sequence. Tap 5-7 times on each point, starting with the eyebrow and ending with the top of the head.
Sixthly, reassess the level of intensity of your challenge on a scale of 1-10.
Lastly, repeat the process until the intensity decreases to a level you are comfortable with.
It’s important to note that some challenges may linger and may require you to return back to them. Additionally, it’s important to address every aspect of the challenge. As such, you may have to tap for various setup statements.
“If someone can be traumatized in 30 seconds, why can’t they be healed in a day, an hour, a minute?” ― Rick Wilkes
How To Use Tapping Summary
- Identify a challenge.
- Assess the current level of intensity.
- Create a setup statement.
- Recite the setup statement 3 times while tapping on the karate chop point.
- Recite the setup statement 5-7 times while performing the tapping sequence.
- Reassess the level of intensity.
- Repeat the process.
Summary (TL;DR)
Tapping is a therapeutic method used to relieve stress by combining elements of cognitive psychology with acupressure.
The method works by interrupting the brain’s stress response and reprogramming the brain to respond differently by associating an old negative memory with a new positive memory.
The method can be applied for issues including symptoms, emotions, events and limiting beliefs.
