Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT/Tapping)

Fundamentals of EFT and Energetic Imbalance

Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), colloquially known as Tapping, is conceptualized as a needle-free "emotional acupuncture" modality.

Originally developed by engineer Gary Craig, this technique postulates that the cause of all negative emotion is a disruption in the body's energy system.

Just as traditional Chinese medicine maps meridians through which Qi (vital energy) flows, EFT identifies blockages in these channels that manifest as anxiety, depression or trauma.

The intervention consists of rhythmic percutaneous stimulation (gentle tapping with the fingertips) on specific terminal points of the energy meridians, while the subject maintains a cognitive attunement to the specific problem.

The goal is to restore bioenergetic balance, allowing the conditioned emotional response to decouple from the triggering memory or thought.

It is a self-regulation tool that empowers the individual to manage his or her own emotional homeostasis without exclusive dependence on an external facilitator.

Configuration and Sequence Statement Protocol

The effectiveness of EFT lies in its procedural algorithm. The process begins with the "Setup Statement," designed to neutralize the "Psychological Inversion" (a subconscious resistance to healing).

The problem is verbalized by acknowledging its existence and, simultaneously, unconditional self-acceptance is affirmed, following the formula: "Although I have this [problem], I deeply and completely accept myself."

While reciting this phrase, the "Karate Chop" point on the ulnar edge of the hand is stimulated.

Subsequently, the tapping sequence is executed through the nodal points: eyebrow, side of the eye, under the eye, under the nose, chin, collarbone, under the arm and crown of the head.

This circuit is repeated until the subjective intensity of discomfort (measured on an LDS scale of 0 to 10) drops significantly, indicating a neurological desensitization to the aversive stimulus.

Clinical Application in Cortisol and Complex Trauma

In the context of recovery from narcissistic abuse, EFT has demonstrated clinical utility in reducing circulating cortisol levels.

Chronic stress keeps the body in an inflammatory state; by reducing amygdala activation through tapping, production of this neurotoxic hormone is decreased, which can have beneficial side effects such as visceral weight loss associated with stress.

For the treatment of complex trauma, EFT allows the problem to be addressed in "layers" or "aspects".

A traumatic event is not a monolith, but a composite of multiple sensory and cognitive facets (the smell, the sound of the voice, the feeling of helplessness).

The technique allows dismantling the trauma aspect by aspect, reducing PTSD symptoms such as nightmares and phobias.

In addition, it facilitates access and healing of pre-existing childhood wounds that predisposed the victim to