14. Emotional Freedom Through Tapping (EFT)

Sometimes, emotions become “stuck” in the body — waves of energy that were too big to finish moving through. Children, especially, may not yet have the words to express fear, sadness, or overwhelm — but their body remembers. You might see it in restless movement, sudden tears, or moments of withdrawal.

Tapping, or Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), is a gentle, body-based practice that helps those stored emotions complete their cycle — safely, lovingly, and without force. By rhythmically tapping on specific acupressure points while focusing on the emotion, we send soothing signals through the vagus nerve to the brain, which receives the message:

“It’s safe to let this go.”

This rhythmic stimulation helps the body move from “fight or flight” into “rest and regulate,” allowing emotions to flow and integrate rather than remain trapped.

EFT combines ancient meridian wisdom with modern neuroscience — a meeting point between touch and emotion, rhythm and release. It’s simple, gentle, and powerful, especially when guided by love and presence.

TRY THIS SIMPLE TAPPING FLOW

Begin by sitting together comfortably. Place a hand on your heart and take one slow, deep breath together. Remind your child: “We can let our feelings move through us. We’re safe.” Then, follow this flow — tapping gently with two or three fingers on each point while repeating the phrases softly:

🔹 Karate Chop Point (Side of Hand)

 ➤ “Even though I feel upset, I am loved and safe.”

 (Sets the intention for acceptance and safety.)

🔹 Eyebrow Point

 ➤ “I notice this feeling…”

 (Brings gentle awareness without judgment.)

🔹 Side of Eye

 ➤ “It’s okay to feel this way.”

 (Validates the emotion, allowing space for release.)

🔹 Under Eye

 ➤ “My body knows how to calm down.”

 (Reassures the body’s natural self-regulation.)

🔹 Collarbone Point

 ➤ “I am safe now.”

 (Anchors safety through rhythm and breath.)

🔹 Top of Head

 ➤ “I can let go and feel calm.”

 (Completes the circuit, sealing calm into the body.)

Repeat two or three gentle rounds while breathing slowly. Notice subtle signs of release — yawning, sighing, smiling, or deep breaths — these are the body’s way of showing the nervous system is resetting and releasing tension.

💡 DID YOU KNOW? 

Research shows that EFT tapping can:

🔸 Lower cortisol levels (the body’s stress hormone)

🔸Reduce anxiety and fear responses

🔸Enhance vagal tone and parasympathetic activation

🔸Improve emotional balance and cognitive clarity

By blending rhythmic touch, breath, and self-acceptance, tapping helps both children and adults move through emotions rather than suppress them — transforming stress into calm energy.

✨ When words can’t reach the wound, rhythm and touch can. Each tap is a reminder: “You are safe to feel. You are safe to release. You are safe to be.”

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Stay tuned for Part 15: The Journey Home — Nurturing Safety, Connection, and Healing