What Tapping Helps
In my view, EFT (aka tapping) helps when we are willing to have our uncomfortable thoughts, feelings or symptoms instead of engaging in trying to fix or avoid our discomfort.
For example, if we're anxious, we might tap with what it feels like to have this anxiety (e.g., "a ball in my chest") or what we're specifically anxious about (e.g., "speaking in front of the school", "talking to my son") until the emotional intensity subsides and we feel relief.
Physical Issues
For physical issues, such as allergic reactions, injuries or chronic conditions, for example, we might tap with how the symptoms feel, where we feel them/where they show up, or what was going on in our lives when they started. We might even get curious about what the issue might be trying to tell us, or what we might be getting out of it.
With persistence and skill, EFT can be an excellent complement to medical or other primary care, as it addresses the emotional components or contributors to our problems, which can otherwise be minimized or neglected.
Emotional Issues
Our past negative experiences, the meaning we've given those experiences, our fear and worries – all can be fertile ground for a helpful EFT exploration, especially when we are going through something challenging in the present moment.
For example, if we are having trouble falling asleep, staying asleep or having issues with the amount or quality of restful sleep, EFT can help address the emotional components or contributors involved. These thoughts or feelings will be unique to each person's experience. For one person, a simple exercise of tapping on stressful thoughts and feelings before bedtime might bring needed calm to the nervous system – and make all the difference. For another person, a deeper exploration during an EFT session of what may be disturbing our sleep – getting curious about potential root causes - could be useful.
Case Study: Learning to Sleep Naturally by Mary Ann Mohr