Tapping, also known as Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), is gaining popularity in the UK as a simple way to manage anxiety, stress, and overwhelm. This technique combines cognitive elements from exposure therapy with somatic stimulation from acupressure. Research shows tapping can reduce cortisol levels and activate the parasympathetic nervous system to alleviate anxiety symptoms.
Understanding How Tapping Works
Tapping therapy utilizes the meridian endpoints used in acupuncture and acupressure. Gentle tapping on these points aims to unblock energy and restore emotional balance. Along with the somatic input, spoken affirmations tune into deeper beliefs driving the anxiety. This combined approach reprograms the brain and nervous system to process emotions differently.
While more research is still needed, multiple studies have found tapping effectively for various conditions, including anxiety disorders, PTSD, food cravings, chronic pain, and more. The beauty of this tool lies in its simplicity, making it accessible as a self-help technique.
Learning the Tapping Points
Tapping UK can be done anywhere on the body. However, the basic EFT sequence focuses on eight endpoints used in acupressure:
- Karate Chop Point – side of the hand
- Top of the Head
- Beginning of the Eyebrow
- Side of the Eye
- Under the Eye
- Under the Nose
- Chin Point
- Collarbone
These points have shown the strongest conductivity for energy balance. Lightly tapping each point while tuning into the emotion or thought pattern of concern creates a flow to shift out of anxiety.
Utilizing Tapping to Alleviate Anxiety
Using tapping to calm anxiety involves four key steps:
- Identify the trigger or core issue. This focuses on the tapping sequence.
- Measure the intensity level. Assess anxiety on a scale of 0-10 before starting.
- Tap through the points while repeating target statements. Remain focused on the core emotion or belief.
- Reassess the intensity level once complete. Continue tapping until reaching the 0-2 range for full relief.
See below for a sample tapping script for stress relief:
Even though I feel overwhelmed by this anxiety, I deeply and completely accept myself.
Even though this anxiety feels unbearable, I forgive myself for being scared.
Even though my heart is racing, I give myself permission to feel calm.
I feel all this anxiety in my body.
Take a deep breath.
I allow myself to feel this anxiety without judgment.
This too shall pass.
I give myself permission to feel calm and at peace.
Keep Tapping for Lasting Change
While a single tapping therapy session can diffuse anxiety in the moment, lasting change requires repetition. Make EFT for anxiety part of a regular self-care routine. Over time, it will rewire the brain’s response to triggers. Remain patient with yourself and keep at it.
Consider working with an EFT practitioner like EFT in London for a more customised approach. Having expert guidance tailoring tapping scripts and statements to your unique situation often speeds the process.
Give Tapping a Try
Anxiety has a way of spiralling out of control if left unchecked. Tapping gives a way to self-soothe emotions back down to baseline. This simple technique works with the body’s energy meridians to restore inner peace. Best of all, you can tap anytime, anywhere anxiety flares up for on-the-spot relief.
