Emotional freedom technique or Tapping as it is also called (because we gently tap on 9 different points on our body) is a powerful tool to regulate emotions and works well for both adults and children. It is a simple and easy to learn technique, where we tap on the points as we voice our feeling. The best part is, tapping isn’t time intensive, one can usually start to feel the difference within a few minutes- even beginners!
Scientific research has shown that EFT calms the Amygdala, the part of our brain that triggers our ‘fight or flight response’. This in turn reduces the production of stress hormones like Adrenaline and Cortisol in the body, making the person feel calmer and at ease.
NICE, National Institute of Health and Care Excellence have found that children that have access to social emotional learning tools like these are –
· better learners
· More resilient
· Cope well under pressure
· Advanced interpersonal skills
For children and teenagers, this technique forms part of what I call ‘emotional hygiene routine’ by helping them manage their feelings and behaviour in a healthy manner. Just like personal hygiene, if children make tapping a part of their daily routine, they clear away the emotions that don't serve them. EFT is also great for relief from anxiety, worry and the child’s self-perceived difficulties. Be it exam worry, a new experience like joining a different school, building confidence, fear of failure- all can be addressed in a healthy and productive way using tapping.
The list goes on, because as a direct result of EFT the child is able to self-regulate their emotions, which can be empowering for them. In acknowledging the negative feeling out aloud while tapping on the points has a profound effect on them viewing the obstacle from a different perspective, they also feel at ease and better equipped to deal with the situation. Don’t take my word for it, tap and see for yourself!
The tapping chart below will show you the tapping points and the sequence. Tap on each point gently about 10-15 times. This is a verrryyy forgiving technique so don't worry even if you think you got it 'wrong', there are no side affects.
I have also added a quick script that you/ your child/ student can read out as they tap. It deals with the "I don't want to do my homework" bug! Follow the instructions on the sheet below and tap along the points as you say the statements out aloud. If after one round of tapping they still feel upset( 5 and above on the rating scale) do another circuit- it only takes a couple minutes. Keep tapping until they are have rated it a 5 or below.
Here is a brief video demonstration
Happy tapping! I'd love to hear from you, so do make sure to share your comments here, on YouTube(HealingWithRamya). You can also join my Facebook community where I post free weekly videos
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