Stress and anxiety are part and parcel of everyday life, and are increasingly a part of our fast paced modern lifestyles. Though it is healthy to have goals and to be challenged, if this is sustained for too long elements of the body - such as the heart – can be put under pressure and become permanently affected. People are looking for natural alternatives to stress management, and Emotional Freedom Technique is one avenue worth examining.
What is Emotional Freedom Technique?
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) is based on the Chinese meridian system, with the body comprised of - and divided into - energy fields. Any blockages to these energy fields are viewed as the primary source of psychological and physical problems. EFT makes use of aspects of Chinese traditional medicine, particularly acupressure to relieve a wide range of issues including emotional issues such as depression, fears and phobias, panic attacks, compulsions; including stress and anxiety. This is achieved by a series of tapping motions on selected pressure points. As well as these emotional aspects, EFT provides relief for a range of physical ailments including headaches, pain management and weight issues.
Stress and Anxiety
Stress and anxiety affects people in different ways - with some people more able to deal with stressful situations, with little effect on their health or wellbeing. Those less able to deal with stress may exhibit symptoms that include irritability, sensitivity to criticism, loss of concentration and poor sleep patterns. Managing stress is one way of protecting yourself from the potential negative health implications. Some easy ways of managing stress include exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding stressful situations, sleeping well and finding ways to relax and enjoy yourself. Other disciplines such as yoga, meditation and EFT are increasingly utilised alongside these measures to aid recovery and healing.
How Can Emotional Freedom Technique Help Stress and Anxiety?
Practitioners will instruct you in the tapping techniques used in EFT. These are typically centred on the meridians or pressure points of the body, including the hands, head and face. The pressure on these points, combined with positive mental and verbal reinforcement are utilised to effect relief and recovery. Practitioners are typically trained and certified by an independent ETF body, so ensure your practitioner has learned the appropriate skills.
Find out about other effective natural treatments for stress and anxiety.
Originally published on May 20, 2010
