What Is EFT Tapping and Does It Actually Work?
Most of us are carrying more than we realise. The stress of a busy week, emotions we didn't have time to process, tension we've held in our bodies for so long it feels normal. We keep moving, keep pushing, keep showing up. But at some point the body starts asking for something different. EFT tapping is one of the most effective tools we've found for that moment.
What is EFT tapping?
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) tapping, is a somatic practice that combines gentle rhythmic tapping on specific acupressure points on the face and body with focused attention on a feeling or physical sensation. It bridges ancient Chinese medicine, which maps the body's energy meridians, with modern psychology to create a practice that works on the nervous system directly.
How does it work?
Stress and unprocessed emotion don't just live in the mind. They live in the body, in the tight shoulders, the shallow breath, the gut that won't settle. The amygdala, the brain's threat detection centre, can stay activated long after the original stressor has passed.
Tapping on meridian points while bringing attention to a difficult feeling sends a calming signal to the amygdala, interrupting the stress cycle and creating space for the nervous system to settle. Research shows this measurably reduces cortisol in a single session and over time supports the brain in building new, more regulated patterns of response.
What are the 9 points?
Source: The Tapping Solution
1. Side of the Hand (Karate Chop)
Along the outer edge beneath your pinky, between finger and wrist.
Connected to the small intestine meridian, this point supports release where you feel stuck, gently guiding you forward.
Tap with the opposite hand, using a few fingers, in a steady, grounding rhythm.
2. Eyebrow
At the inner edge of the eyebrow, where the hairline begins.
Linked to the bladder meridian, it softens layers of sadness, hurt and emotional holding, inviting calm.
Tap lightly with two fingers, on one or both sides.
3. Side of the Eye
On the bone at the outer edge of the eye.
Connected to the gallbladder meridian, this point helps release frustration and tension, creating space for clarity.
Tap gently, staying on the bone.
4. Under the Eye
Directly beneath the eye along the bone.
Associated with the stomach meridian, it soothes anxiety and supports a sense of safety and ease.
Tap softly with two fingers, breathing slowly.
5. Under the Nose
Between the nose and upper lip.
Linked to the governing vessel, it supports the release of shame and self-doubt, encouraging self-acceptance.
Use two fingers to tap gently.
6. Under the Mouth (Chin Point)
In the crease between the lower lip and chin.
Connected to the central meridian, it brings clarity through uncertainty, supporting confidence and trust.
Tap lightly with two fingers.
7. Collarbone
Just below the collarbone, slightly out from the centre of the chest.
Linked to the kidney meridian, this point supports forward movement, clarity and inner strength.
Tap with fingertips or the whole hand across the upper chest.
8. Under the Arm
About a hand’s width below the armpit, along the side body.
Associated with the spleen meridian, it helps release worry and overthinking, softening into ease.
Tap with your fingers or whole hand.
9. Top of the Head
At the crown of the head.
This point integrates the practice, supporting connection and balance across the body. Tap gently with your fingertips, letting the body settle.
Does it actually work?
EFT users describe that it is highly effective for anxiety and stress relief, with outcomes comparable to cognitive behavioural therapy. Emergins research shows significant reductions in cortisol, depression and PTSD symptoms across diverse populations. Some people notice a tangible shift within a single session.
What will I feel?
You might yawn. You might feel a wave of emotion, or unexpected lightness, or simply calmer than you did before. Or you might feel nothing at the time but notice some shifts in your life days or weeks later. Less fear, more presence, more perspective - every person is different. You don't need experience or prior belief in the practice. Just give it a go and see how it lands for you!
Start here
Our foundational EFT video in the Soluna Studio is free to access. Gracie walks you through the nine tapping points, the three-round approach and how to use tapping as a daily reset for your nervous system.
