Understanding EFT – Emotional Freedom Technique

Alternative medicine are medical treatments that are used in place of traditional or more commonly used therapies. Emotional freedom technique (EFT) is also an alternative treatment method that has been found to benefit some people and children with autism.

EFT is also known as tapping or psychological acupressure technique and involves gentle fingertip tapping on some specific points on the body. The tapping can be done by a person himself or herself or with the help of an expert.

The technique is based on the belief that the proper flow of energy through our body is vital for our health, happiness and peace of mind. EFT has been found to benefit children with autism in many ways.

1. EFT helps the person feel calmer and less agitated.
2. It can help in making eye contact with others.
3. Better moods and a more positive outlook.
4. Improved attention.
5. Better posture.
6. Relieving of stress, fear and anxiety.
7. Improvement in certain sensory issues.
8. Better social interactions and behavior.

While many studies claim that EFT is beneficial for children with autism, it is important to realize that the effects of alternative medicines and treatments are not the same on every one. Some people show more impact while others may not have any improvements at all.

We can adopt same techniques of EFT that are used for adults on children, in order make children calm, increase the cognition, and reduce their insecurity. It is an excellent tool to bring down communication anxiety. Dr Rajarajeshwari Venugopal, Therapist

There are steps that are involved in the use of EFT tapping. It starts with identifying the issue and creating a set up that can be used for the healing.

There are 12 major meridians that mirror each side of the body and correspond to an internal organ and tapping is done at some of them. Some of the main points are eyebrow, side of the eye, under the eye, under the nose, chin, under the arm etc.

Apart from EFT there are other forms of alternative treatments for autism such as gluten free diet, Omega-3 fatty acids, melatonin for sleep and many more. The methods are being studied and researched all over the world and have been found to benefit several if not all people and children with autism.

Chennai based Dr Vasantha Malligai says, “There are several therapies that work well to relive stress and anxiety in children with autism. One very simple method is to get a pet as that helps a lot.“

These treatments are not a cure for autism but can help with the symptoms and assist in coping with the challenges that come with ASD. It is advisable to consult experts and doctors before following any alternative treatments methods and techniques.

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