Dear Dr. Cutler,

A few years ago I suffered a truly traumatic experience and since then I have had to deal with headaches and back pain that just won’t go away. I was told by a dear friend that you know of a technique that might be of help to me called the Emotional Freedom Technique. Could you tell me more about this technique and if you think it might be worthwhile for me?

—JoBeth R.

Dear JoBeth,

The Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) is an emotional version of acupuncture. Acupuncture is an ancient practice that works by inserting needles along certain pathways or meridians along your body. Meridians are the invisible channels through which energy flows through your body. In EMT, you shift your feeling energy by locating these acupuncture meridians, but instead of needles, you simply tap on the individual meridians with your fingertips. Within minutes emotional relief can be yours, but EFT can also lessen actual pain if there is an emotional cause behind it.

It’s very important to clear out your toxic emotions so while doing the EFT you should repeat a positive affirmation phrase as you tap your finger firmly over those specific energy meridian points on your body. And once those toxic emotions begin to vanish, you’ll see that physical problems such as headaches and back pains tend to get better.

But according to several of my patients, EFT has helped them with many stressful situations such as fear of public speaking. And it can be effective in reversing other fears and traumas, as well as depression and grief. How can it help? Because your physical health and your happiness depend on your state of feeling, and EFT can help you master your thoughts and feelings.

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