Tapping for Anxiety, Does It Help with Stress? EFT Anxiety Tapping

We Level Up FL Treatment Center | Editor Yamilla Francese | Clinically Reviewed By Lauren Barry, LMFT, MCAP, QS, Director of Quality Assurance | Editorial Policy | Research Policy | Last Updated: August 7, 2023

Tapping for Anxiety

Anxiety and stress have become prevalent challenges in modern society, affecting millions worldwide. As these emotional burdens continue impacting our well-being, many people seek alternative methods to manage their anxiety and stress effectively. Among the various techniques gaining popularity is “Tapping,” known explicitly as Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) Anxiety Tapping.

EFT Anxiety Tapping is a self-help practice combining Eastern acupressure and Western psychotherapy to address emotional distress. By tapping on specific acupressure points on the body while focusing on the anxiety or stress-inducing thoughts and emotions, proponents of EFT believe it can bring relief and promote emotional regulation.

Tapping Technique for Anxiety

The tapping technique for anxiety, also known as tapping for anxiety or anxiety tapping, is a therapeutic approach that involves tapping on specific acupressure points on the body while focusing on anxiety-related thoughts, emotions, or experiences. This technique is based on the belief that disruptions in the body’s energy system contribute to anxiety and that tapping on these points can help restore the flow of energy, leading to emotional relief and a reduction in anxiety symptoms.

The specific points typically include the top of the head, eyebrow, side of the eye, the eye, under the nose, chin, collarbone, arm, and the side of the hand. By combining physical tapping with psychological elements, the tapping technique for anxiety aims to regulate the body’s stress response and promote a sense of emotional well-being. While anecdotal evidence suggests its benefits, more scientific research is needed to understand its effectiveness and mechanisms of action fully.

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Anxiety and EFT Tapping Statistics

Anxiety is a prevalent mental health condition affecting millions of people worldwide. In recent years, alternative approaches like EFT tapping (Emotional Freedom Techniques) have gained attention as potential tools for managing anxiety. While scientific research on the effectiveness of EFT tapping for anxiety is still limited, anecdotal evidence suggests positive outcomes for some individuals. As interest in complementary therapies grows, more studies are needed to provide further insight into the statistics and efficacy of EFT tapping in addressing anxiety.

EFT tapping is a self-help technique that involves tapping on specific acupressure points on the body while focusing on emotional distress. Although there isn’t as much research on EFT tapping compared to conventional therapies, some studies and anecdotal reports suggest its potential benefits for anxiety and other emotional issues.

1. Effectiveness: Research studies have shown mixed results regarding the efficacy of EFT tapping. Some studies suggest positive outcomes for reducing anxiety and stress, while others find limited or no significant effects.
2. Popularity: EFT tapping has gained popularity in recent years as an alternative and complementary therapy for managing emotional distress and promoting overall well-being.
3. Clinical Use: EFT tapping is sometimes used in clinical settings, both as a stand-alone therapy and as an adjunct to other therapeutic interventions.

Anxiety Tapping

Anxiety tapping, also known as tapping for anxiety or anxiety relief tapping, refers to applying the tapping technique targeted explicitly at reducing anxiety symptoms. It is a form of self-help or complementary therapy that combines gentle tapping on specific acupressure points with verbalizing or mentally focusing on anxiety-related thoughts, emotions, or experiences.

The underlying principle of anxiety tapping is based on the belief that disruptions in the body’s energy system contribute to emotional distress and anxiety. By tapping on specific points, it is thought that the flow of energy can be restored, allowing for emotional relief and a reduction in anxiety symptoms.

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Advantages of Tapping Technique for Anxiety

EFT tapping, or Emotional Freedom Techniques tapping, offers several potential advantages as a therapeutic approach:

• Non-Invasive: EFT tapping is a non-invasive technique that involves gentle tapping on acupressure points with fingertips. It does not require medication or invasive procedures, making it a low-risk option.
• Self-Help Tool: EFT tapping can be practiced as a self-help tool, empowering individuals to participate in their emotional well-being actively. It provides a technique for outside therapy sessions, offering individuals a sense of control and agency over their mental health.
• Accessibility: Individuals without extensive training or special equipment can easily learn and practice EFT tapping. It can be done anywhere and anytime, making it accessible and convenient for individuals seeking anxiety relief or emotional support.
• Emotional Regulation: By combining physical tapping with focused attention on emotional distress, EFT tapping aims to regulate emotions. It can help individuals better manage anxiety, stress, and overwhelming emotions by promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.
• Potential for Self-Discovery: During the tapping process, individuals often explore and verbalize their thoughts, emotions, and experiences related to anxiety or other concerns. This self-reflection can lead to greater self-awareness, insight, and potential resolution of underlying emotional issues.
• Complementary Approach: EFT tapping can be used as a complementary approach alongside traditional therapy or other treatment modalities. It may enhance the effectiveness of existing therapeutic interventions and provide individuals with additional tools for managing their anxiety or emotional well-being.
• Cost-Effective: EFT tapping can be a cost-effective therapy option for individuals with limited financial resources or lack access to extensive mental health services. Learning and practicing EFT tapping techniques can often be done with minimal expense.

Tapping Points for Anxiety

Tapping for anxiety involves stimulating specific acupressure points on the body while addressing emotional distress. Here are some common tapping points used in Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) or tapping therapy for anxiety:

1. Top of the Head (TH): Use your fingertips to tap on your head’s crown gently.
2. Eyebrow (EB): Tap with two fingers on the beginning of your eyebrow, just above the nose bridge.
3. Side of the Eye (SE): Tap with two fingers on the outer corner of your eye, on the bony area.
4. Under the Eye (UE): Tap with two fingers under your eye, on the bony area just below the pupil.
5. Under the Nose (UN): Tap with two fingers under your nose, above your upper lip.
6. Chin Point (CP): Tap with two fingers on the indentation between your lower lip and chin.
7. Collarbone (CB): Tap with four fingers on the junction where your collarbones meet near your throat.
8. Under the Arm (UA): Tap with your fingertips on the side of your body, about 4-5 inches below your armpit.
9. Wrists (WR): Tap your wrists together as if you were gently clapping.

During the tapping process, it’s essential to focus on the specific anxiety or emotional issue you want to address. You can use affirmations or statements about your feelings while tapping on these points to help release emotional tension and promote relaxation. Remember to tap gently and firmly and take deep breaths throughout the process. It’s essential to practice tapping regularly and, if needed, seek guidance from a qualified EFT practitioner for more personalized assistance.

EFT Tapping for Anxiety and Depression

Tapping techniques, such as EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques), can be complementary to managing anxiety and depression symptoms. While it’s essential to consult with a mental health professional for a comprehensive treatment plan, here’s how tapping may potentially benefit individuals dealing with anxiety and depression:

1. Emotional Regulation: Tapping combines physical touch with focused attention on specific thoughts, emotions, or experiences. This can help individuals regulate their emotions and promote emotional well-being. Tapping may assist in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, such as excessive worry, sadness, or irritability.
2. Stress Reduction: Tapping has been reported to help reduce stress levels by stimulating acupressure points and promoting relaxation. By addressing stress, which can be a contributing factor to both anxiety and depression, tapping may support overall mental well-being.
3. Self-Awareness and Acceptance: Tapping often involves verbalizing or mentally acknowledging specific issues or negative beliefs while tapping on specific points. This process can encourage self-reflection, increase self-awareness, and promote self-acceptance. Developing a compassionate and understanding relationship with oneself can be beneficial for managing symptoms of both anxiety and depression.
4. Coping and Empowerment: Tapping provides individuals with a self-help tool they can utilize outside of therapy sessions. It empowers individuals to actively participate in their emotional healing journey and develop coping skills to manage anxiety and depressive symptoms.
5. Holistic Approach: Tapping considers the mind-body connection by combining physical touch with cognitive and emotional processes. This holistic approach recognizes that anxiety and depression are multifaceted conditions that can benefit from addressing psychological and physiological aspects.

Anxiety Treatment at We Level Up WA

We delve into the practice of Tapping for Anxiety, exploring its underlying principles, potential benefits, and the available research supporting its efficacy in managing stress and anxiety. We’ll also examine how EFT Anxiety Tapping can be integrated into existing self-care routines or used as a complementary approach alongside conventional therapies.

The choice between other anxiety prescriptions depends on individual factors, including the specific anxiety disorder, previous treatment response, side effect profile, and personal preferences. Consulting with a healthcare provider is crucial in determining the most appropriate medication and dosage for your anxiety disorder. They can evaluate your situation and guide you in making an informed decision.

Contact We Level Up Washington mental health treatment center for more information. Our mental health specialists can help you explore treatment options and provide further resources.

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