What is EFT?

EFT stands for Emotional Freedom Techniques. Simply put EFT is an acupressure technique that works directly on the fear center (amygdala) of the brain. This tiny, almond shaped gland is responsible for our stress response, telling us to take action, be it “Flight, fight or freeze”. This self-protection mode is hard wired in to all of us as human Energy-Tapping-Points-Female2-330x600-250x454beings. This type of hard wired protection of our body and mind is what is most affected by this gland, the amygdala. Stress, any stress, causes a reaction in the body that includes releasing chemicals (like cortisol and adrenaline) into our bloodstream so that we can effectively deal with the threat at hand. While we are in this “fight or flight” mode our sympathetic nervous system is in charge and all of the functions that occur naturally only when our para-sympathetic nervous system takes control -such as excretion, absorption, digestion and tissue repair – cannot occur. Those restorative and healing functions only occur during periods of relaxation, not stress.

EFT quite literally “calms” the amygdala thus lowering the “stress response” which in turn allows you to be more alert and better functioning as well as reduce the effects of stress.

A practitioner of EFT uses these techniques to assist you to recognize the stressor and release the physical, mental and emotional reaction associated directly with it, thereby releasing stress and the effects of stress from your body.  This results in feeling calm, clear headed, more optimistic, and relaxed. At this point, the body can do what it was meant to do – heal itself.

How does this work? There are many studies that clearly show the benefits of EFT on the nervous system. EFT affects the body at a chemical and electrical level so there is no belief system required. It literally changes the way your brain processes information and memory, which in turn changes how your body feels and reacts.

Why EFT? It is easy to learn the principles and apply them. It is fast and effective.  It is usually permanent in the relief provided and it can be applied to anything in your life that you want to change. While working with a practitioner is certainly preferred, it is truly a therapy that one can easily learn and apply effectively.

by – Lisa Sorensen, EFTP at Wellness At The Center.  Lisa encourages you to schedule a consultation at no charge to see what this therapy can do for you and your life.