Understanding TFT and EFT Tapping Therapies with Practical Examples

Tapping therapies have gained attention as accessible tools for managing stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges. Two popular methods, Thought Field Therapy (TFT) and Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), use tapping on specific points of the body to help release negative emotions and promote well-being. This post explains what TFT and EFT are, how they work, and offers practical examples to help you understand and try these techniques.

Fingertips tapping on the side of the hand as used in tapping therapies

What is Thought Field Therapy (TFT)?

Thought Field Therapy is a psychological treatment developed in the 1980s by Dr. Roger Callahan. It combines elements of cognitive therapy with tapping on specific meridian points on the body, based on traditional Chinese medicine. TFT aims to quickly reduce emotional distress by addressing the "thought field" that causes negative feelings.

How TFT Works

TFT practitioners identify the specific emotional problem and then tap on a sequence of points on the face, hands, and upper body. Each sequence corresponds to a particular issue, such as fear, anger, or trauma. The tapping is believed to balance the body's energy system and reduce the intensity of the emotional disturbance.

Example of TFT Practice

Imagine someone struggling with a fear of public speaking. A TFT practitioner would:

• Ask the person to rate their fear on a scale from 0 to 10.

• Identify the tapping sequence for fear, which might include points on the eyebrow, side of the eye, under the eye, under the nose, chin, collarbone, and under the arm.

• Guide the person to tap each point about five to seven times while focusing on the fear.

• After completing the sequence, the person rates their fear again. Often, the number decreases significantly.

  
  

This process can be repeated until the fear feels manageable or disappears.

What is Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT)?

Emotional Freedom Techniques, often called tapping, is a more accessible and flexible form of tapping therapy developed in the 1990s by Gary Craig. EFT combines tapping on meridian points with verbal affirmations to address emotional and physical issues.

How EFT Works

EFT involves tapping on a set of nine points on the body while repeating a setup statement that acknowledges the problem and expresses self-acceptance. The tapping points include the side of the hand, eyebrow, side of the eye, under the eye, under the nose, chin, collarbone, under the arm, and top of the head.

Example of EFT Practice

Consider someone dealing with stress from work deadlines. They might:

• Use a setup phrase like, "Even though I feel overwhelmed by my deadlines, I deeply and completely accept myself."

• Tap on the side of the hand while saying the setup phrase three times.

• Tap about five to seven times on each of the other points while repeating a reminder phrase such as "this stress" or "my deadlines."

• After one round, they check their stress level and repeat the process if needed.

  
  

EFT encourages users to personalize the phrases and focus on their feelings during tapping.

Person tapping on chest area during EFT tapping session

Key Differences Between TFT and EFT

• Structure: TFT uses specific tapping sequences tailored to particular problems, while EFT uses a standard sequence with customizable verbal affirmations.

• Accessibility: EFT is easier to learn and practice independently, whereas TFT often requires guidance from a trained practitioner.

• Focus: TFT targets the thought field linked to emotional issues, while EFT combines physical tapping with verbal statements to address emotions and beliefs.

  
  

Practical Tips for Trying Tapping Therapies

• Start with EFT if you want a simple method to try on your own. Learn the tapping points and practice the setup and reminder phrases.

• Use TFT with a practitioner if you have complex emotional issues or want a more targeted approach.

• Be consistent. Like any therapy, tapping works best with regular practice.

• Focus on one issue at a time. Trying to address too many problems at once can reduce effectiveness.

• Rate your feelings before and after tapping to track progress.

  
  

Common Applications of TFT and EFT

• Reducing anxiety and panic attacks

• Managing stress and overwhelm

• Overcoming phobias and fears

• Addressing trauma and PTSD symptoms

• Improving sleep quality

• Supporting pain relief and physical healing

  
  

Safety and Considerations

Tapping therapies are generally safe and non-invasive. They can complement other treatments but should not replace professional medical or psychological care when needed. If you have serious mental health concerns, consult a healthcare provider before starting tapping.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before beginning any new health or exercise program.

Raising Grace Research and Self Health Maryland are aiming for high places, don't get lost finding us, Logos Lounge, The Thought That Counts and The Raising Grace Community are developing outreach and educational content aimed to keep the mind alive in Knowledge. A I Entertainment meant to keep you thinking, that would be nice lol. Remember life is yours too, Enjoy. Chris T