What is the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) and How Can “EFT Tapping” Improve Your Mental State?

By Jennifer Marcenelle, MBA, BSN, RN, HBN-BC

In recent years, Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT)—commonly known as “tapping”—have emerged as a low-cost, effective tool for promoting emotional and physical well-being. The technique’s benefits are gaining recognition even within major Western institutions. For instance, as of February 2nd, 2023, the American Institute of Health Care Professionals, Inc. began offering a 14+ hour training seminar on EFT.

While research continues to explore the neuro-cognitive responses to EFT, its origins lie in Eastern medical philosophies, including chakras and meridian points, which recognize the intricate connection between mind, body, and spirit. As a Board-Certified Holistic Nurse and Professional Energy Healer, I integrate EFT into my work because it is a rapid and powerful tool for reconnecting the physical, spiritual, and emotional self, especially for clients who feel disconnected from their bodies.

Chakras and Meridian Points: Our Body’s Energy Centers

EFT is based on ancient Eastern knowledge of the body’s energy systems. From a holistic perspective, EFT is not mystical; rather, it enhances your body’s natural ability to heal itself.

Western medicine recognizes EFT as a form of energy psychology, a growing field supported by multiple studies demonstrating its effectiveness for both psychological and physiological challenges.

Energy psychology focuses on energy centers within the body. In Eastern medicine, these are called chakras and meridian points—locations where energy is concentrated and flows between the body and mind. Acupuncture, for example, relies on these same principles.

By tapping key meridian points, EFT helps individuals regulate their emotions, reducing stress and anxiety by sending calming signals to the brain. These points lie at the intersection of our physical and mental energy systems, coordinated through the central nervous system.

While there are 12 major meridians, EFT often focuses on the following nine points:

1. Small intestine

2. Top of the head

3. Bladder

4. Gallbladder

5. Stomach

6. Under the nose

7. Chin

8. Kidney

9. Spleen

Tapping these points—typically located on the face, arms, and collarbone—can ground the individual, offering protection from the debilitating impacts of anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD. EFT International provides a detailed manual for practitioners and patients alike, covering everything from step-by-step instructions to troubleshooting common challenges.

The Interrelated Nature of Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, and PTSD

EFT is particularly effective for mental health challenges because emotional and physical experiences are deeply interconnected. Lingering emotional pain can contribute to:

• Gastrointestinal issues

• Sleep disturbances

• Autoimmune conditions

• Chronic inflammation

Trauma, anxiety, and PTSD activate the fight-or-flight response, releasing hormones like adrenaline even when there is no immediate danger. Over time, this stress response negatively impacts the body, creating a cycle of inflammation and imbalance.

EFT helps by reasserting your body’s energy and presence, grounding you in the moment and allowing the body to realize it is safe and capable of self-care. By directing focus inward, EFT can restore balance, improve resilience, and foster emotional regulation.

EFT in the Holistic Living Support Program™

As a holistic healer, my approach prioritizes the unique needs of each client, empowering them to reclaim control over their emotional and spiritual well-being. EFT is a critical component of this process, offering:

• Immediate grounding and emotional relief

• Self-directed tools for managing anxiety and depression

• Support for recovery from trauma and PTSD

Unlike medications, which may temporarily mask symptoms, EFT helps clients build a sustainable relationship with themselves, providing the agency and insight necessary for long-term growth and inner peace.

Through the Holistic Living Support Program™, EFT is integrated into customized healing sessions designed to restore balance, increase resilience, and foster a renewed sense of well-being.

References

• Anthony, K. (2018, September 18). EFT Tapping. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/eft-tapping#treatment

• Bedosky, L. (2022, November 9). What is EFT Tapping? A Detailed Scientific Guide on Emotional Freedom Technique. Everyday Health. https://www.everydayhealth.com/wellness/eft-tapping/guide/

• Laurence, E. (2022, October 25). EFT Tapping: What You Need to Know. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/eft-tapping/

• EFT International. (2021, April). Free Tapping Manual. https://eftinternational.org/wp-content/uploads/EFT-International-Free-Tapping-Manual.pdf

• Digital Journal. (2023, February 2). The American Institute of Health Care Professionals, Inc. Now Offers the Complete EFT Training Seminar Online. https://www.digitaljournal.com/pr/news/the-american-institute-of-health-care-professionals-inc-now-offers-the-complete-eft-training-seminar-online

• National Health Service. (n.d.). Causes – Post-traumatic stress disorder. https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd/causes/

• Energy Psychology Group. (n.d.). Energy Psychology Certification. https://energypsychologycertification.com