EFT

Disclaimer: This is an introductory level explanation of EFT that I have posted solely for the use of my friends. I am not a therapist and make no claims as to the safety or efficacy of this method. It is not a substitute for therapy. Also, this is EFT the way I learned it. I have found web sites that use a slightly different procedure.

EFT involves tapping on a series of acupressure points with the intent to help resolve traumatic feelings.

Steps:

1. Condense your issue into a simple statement. "I am angry all the time."

2. Rub (don't tap) the sore spot (see below). As you press, say, "Even though (statement), I deeply and completely accept myself."

3. Dive into the problem. Think hard about it, feel all the emotions about it, and then rate your level of distress on a scale of 1 to 10.

4. Tap points 1 through 12, using two fingers to tap 7 to 10 times on each point. As you tap each of the points, repeat a key word from your simple statement (e.g., "angry").

5. Tap the 1000 Meeting Places point just behind the top of your head, repeating your key word again.

6. Re-evaluate your distress level.

Sore spot:

Lay your hand over your heart (figuratively speaking - we're not talking anatomy here). If you're American, put it where you would when you do the Pledge of Allegiance. Above your left breast, below your collarbone. Some people find this spot a little tender; hence, it's name.

Tap points:

1. The inside tip of each eyebrow just above your nose. Use two hands and do both sides at the same time.

2. The outside corner of each eye (not on your eye). Two hands.

3. The little ridge under each eye. Two hands.

4. The little crease above your upper lip under your nose. One hand.

5. The little crease on your chin below your lower lip. One hand.

6. Just below each collarbone. Two hands.

7. On each side under your arm about 4 inches below your armpit. The correct spot is likely a bit tender. Do both sides, one at a time.

8. On the back of each thumb, on the outside edge immediately below your nail. Do both sides, one at a time.

9. On the back of each index finger, on the thumb-side edge immediately below your nail. Do both sides, one at a time.

10. On the back of each middle finger, on the thumb-side edge immediately below your nail. Do both sides, one at a time.

11. On the back of each pinkie, on the thumb-side edge immediately below your nail. Do both sides, one at a time.

12. On the gamut point. This is a spot below and between the knuckles of your pinkie and ring finger. See this page: http://www.tapintoheaven.com/2eft/eftproce.shtml