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EFT Explained

December 2, 2025

What's EFT?

EFT, or Emotional Freedom Techniques, is a mind–body practice that combines gentle tapping on specific points of the body with verbal awareness of thoughts, emotions, or physical sensations. It is often referred to as tapping and is used to support emotional regulation, stress reduction, and psychological well-being.

EFT is based on the idea that emotional distress is linked to disruptions in the body’s energy system, and that stimulating certain acupressure points while staying mentally present can help calm the nervous system and reduce emotional intensity.

What Makes EFT Different?

Unlike traditional talk-based approaches, EFT actively involves the body. The tapping is done with the fingertips on specific points, usually on the face, upper body, and hands, while acknowledging what is being felt.

There is no attempt to suppress or “think positively.” The practice encourages gentle awareness of the issue while the body receives signals associated with safety and regulation. This combination is what distinguishes EFT from affirmations or cognitive techniques.

EFT can be practiced alone or with a trained practitioner, depending on the depth of the issue being addressed.

How EFT Works

From a physiological perspective, EFT is thought to help reduce stress responses by calming the amygdala, the brain’s threat-detection center, while activating the parasympathetic nervous system.

Some studies suggest EFT may help lower stress markers and emotional reactivity, particularly in relation to anxiety, phobias, and stress-related symptoms. As with many mind–body practices, experiences and outcomes vary, and EFT is best understood as a supportive tool rather than a standalone solution for complex conditions.

The Tapping Points

EFT uses a sequence of tapping on specific acupressure points that correspond to traditional meridians used in acupuncture. No needles are involved.

While many EFT sessions follow a common structure, practitioners may adapt sequences depending on the individual, the issue being explored, and the context in which EFT is used.

The tapping itself is gentle and non-invasive, making the practice accessible to a wide range of people.

Who Is EFT For?

EFT is often used by people who:

It is used in personal development, therapeutic, and wellness settings, and is sometimes integrated alongside other healing or psychological modalities.

Common Misconceptions

EFT is sometimes misunderstood as a form of positive thinking or distraction. In reality, the practice encourages acknowledgment of what is present rather than avoidance.

Another misconception is that EFT requires belief in energy systems to be effective. Many people practice EFT from a purely nervous-system or somatic perspective, without adopting any particular theoretical framework.

Finding EFT on Soul Sister

If you’re curious about exploring EFT, Soul Sister helps you find experienced practitioners and facilitators offering this modality.

On the Soul Sister platform, you can:

Rather than navigating EFT on your own, Soul Sister allows you to explore this modality by whom it’s practiced, where sessions are available, and how others have experienced it, all in one trusted space.

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