Increasing your effectiveness with EFT, part 150.
One of the foundational principles of EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) is to focus on how we feel about a specific situation or memory in the present moment. The typical EFT setup phrase might sound something like this:
“When I think about X (a specific situation or memory), I feel Y (an emotion or physical sensation), and this is where I’m at right now.”
This structure helps us tune in to the emotional charge attached to an issue, allowing tapping to help release it.
But what happens when we’re not sure what we’re feeling? Maybe we know something is bothering us, but we can’t quite put our finger on what the emotion is. Does that mean EFT won’t work? Not at all.
When You Can’t Label the Feeling
It’s natural to sometimes struggle with identifying our emotions. They don’t always fit neatly into categories like sadness, anger, or fear. The good news is that EFT doesn’t require us to name the exact emotion to be effective.
If you sense “something” is there but can’t label it, you can still tap successfully by using a phrase like:
“When I think about [specific situation], there’s some charge there, and this is where I’m at right now.”
For example:
“When I think about the argument I had last week with my partner, and how unfair it is that she wouldn’t listen to me, there’s some charge there, and this is where I’m at right now.”
This approach acknowledges the emotional energy present without forcing yourself to name it. It creates space for tapping to work with whatever is coming up.
When the Emotion Is Clear
If the emotion is easily identifiable, it’s great to name it and include it in your tapping phrase. For instance:
“When I think about the argument I had with my partner last week, I feel sad, and I feel this sadness in my heart, and this is where I’m at right now.”
Being specific about the emotion can help fine-tune the process, but it’s not a requirement. EFT adapts to what we’re able to identify and process in the moment.
Trusting the Process
EFT works with whatever information is available to us at the time. Whether you’re crystal clear about what you’re feeling or simply aware of a vague sense of discomfort or charge, tapping can help. The process often brings more clarity as you go, peeling back layers of the “onion” and revealing underlying emotions or insights.
The key is to start where you are, with whatever you can observe or sense. Don’t stress about getting it “right.” Emotions are complex, and EFT is forgiving.
Final Thoughts
The next time you feel stuck because you can’t quite identify what you’re feeling, remember that it’s okay. Focus on the situation and acknowledge that “there’s some charge there.” Tap with curiosity and openness, and let the process unfold naturally.
Whether you’re tapping alone or with a practitioner, EFT is designed to meet you exactly where you are.
————————————————————————————-
I’m Bruno Sade, a clinical psychologist and Certified Advanced EFT Practitioner. Helping you manage emotional reactions and release triggers in a way that feels safe and tailored to your unique needs.
Have you ever struggled to identify how you are feeling when doing EFT? What do you think about this approach? If you’d like support in exploring and processing your feelings, feel free to reach out.
If you’d like to experience a free EFT Tapping session in exchange for a brief market research interview, click here.