The Power of Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) for Women in Surgical Menopause

What Is Emotional Freedom Tapping?

EFT is a self-help technique that combines elements of cognitive therapy and exposure therapy with acupressure by tapping on specific meridian points on the body. These meridian points align with traditional Chinese medicine's energy pathways. By gently tapping on these points while focusing on negative emotions or physical sensations, EFT helps to reprogram how your brain and body respond to stress.

Why EFT Works for Women in Surgical Menopause

Menopause, particularly surgical menopause, can intensify emotional challenges like anxiety, sadness, irritability, or feelings of loss. EFT addresses these emotional struggles by:

1. Reducing Stress: Tapping helps calm the amygdala, the part of your brain responsible for the fight-or-flight response. This reduces cortisol levels, promoting a sense of calm.

2. Balancing Emotions: Surgical menopause can throw your hormones into disarray, affecting mood and emotional stability. EFT helps release trapped emotional energy, enabling better emotional regulation.

3. Improving Sleep: By addressing the emotional roots of insomnia—whether it’s anxiety, racing thoughts, or physical discomfort—EFT can help you achieve deeper, more restful sleep.

4. Building Confidence: The significant physical and emotional changes of surgical menopause can take a toll on self-esteem. EFT can help reframe negative thoughts, fostering self-compassion and confidence.

5. Managing Physical Symptoms: Studies have shown that EFT can reduce the perception of physical pain and discomfort, making it a valuable tool for managing joint pain, fatigue, or headaches.

How to Do an EFT Session

An EFT session involves tapping on nine specific meridian points while repeating statements that address your current emotional or physical state. These points include:

1. Side of the hand (karate chop point)

2. Eyebrow

3. Side of the eye

4. Under the eye

5. Under the nose

6. Chin

7. Collarbone

8. Under the arm

9. Top of the head

A Sample EFT Session for Surgical Menopause

Step 1: Identify the Issue

Start by identifying what you want to address. For example, “I feel overwhelmed by mood swings” or “I’m struggling with self-acceptance after surgical menopause.”

Step 2: Rate the Intensity

On a scale of 0-10, rate how intense the feeling is. This will help you track your progress as you tap.

Step 3: Set Up Statement

While tapping on the side of your hand, repeat a setup statement three times. For example:

• "Even though I feel overwhelmed by mood swings, I deeply and completely accept myself."

• "Even though I’m struggling to accept my body after surgery, I choose to love and honor myself."

Step 4: Tapping Sequence

Move through the tapping points while repeating a reminder phrase. For example:

1. Eyebrow: "This overwhelming feeling."

2. Side of Eye: "I don’t feel like myself."

3. Under Eye: "It’s so hard to cope with these changes."

4. Under Nose: "I feel so frustrated."

5. Chin: "Why is this happening to me?"

6. Collarbone: "I don’t know how to feel better."

7. Under Arm: "These emotions are too much."

8. Top of Head: "I feel overwhelmed, but I’m ready to release this feeling."

Repeat the sequence a few times while focusing on your feelings.

Step 5: Reassess the Intensity

After a few rounds, pause and rate the intensity of your feelings again. If it’s still high, repeat the process with modified statements, such as:

• "Even though I still feel some frustration, I choose to feel calm and balanced."

Step 6: Positive Reframe

Once the intensity has decreased, replace negative phrases with positive affirmations during the tapping sequence:

1. Eyebrow: "I’m open to feeling calmer."

2. Side of Eye: "I choose to embrace this new chapter."

3. Under Eye: "I’m stronger than I realize."

4. Under Nose: "I deserve to feel at peace."

5. Chin: "I can handle this with grace."

6. Collarbone: "I love and accept myself."

7. Under Arm: "I’m reclaiming my confidence."

8. Top of Head: "I’m ready to thrive."

Making EFT a Part of Your Wellness Routine

The beauty of EFT is its flexibility—you can do it anywhere, anytime. A few tips for making it a regular practice:

• Start Small: Begin with 5-minute sessions and gradually increase as you feel comfortable.

• Be Consistent: Tapping daily can help reinforce positive changes and build emotional resilience.

• Combine with Other Practices: Pair EFT with meditation or journaling for a well-rounded self-care routine.

A Gentle Path to Emotional Freedom

Surgical menopause is a challenging journey, but it’s also an opportunity to discover your inner strength. EFT offers a simple, powerful way to navigate the emotional waves, release stress, and cultivate self-love. By tapping into this holistic practice, you can empower yourself to thrive in this transformative phase of life.

If you’re ready to try EFT or want to learn more, visit surgicalmenopause.co for resources and guided sessions. Remember, you’re not alone, and you’ve got the tools to embrace this new chapter with confidence and grace.