EFT Tapping Part 2: Emotional Overload and When Tapping Makes You Cry

When was the last time you had a “good cry”? You know what I’m talking about. Of course, you do. The kind of cry that feels cathartic, even inevitable. Maybe it was prompted by a song, a movie, a photo, a memory. Perhaps, you were laying in bed and just let it all out. Or, you were staring at yourself in the mirror and ended up in a full-on “ugly cry” situation.

What Happens When We Cry?

When you cry, what happens in your body? What happens in your brain? How does letting all of that energy, stress, angst, sadness, even despair out make things feel so much better? Harvard recently shared a bit more on the subject, talking about why crying is good for us. Think of it like a valve that needs to be turned on when things get too built up and need to be released before the pressure makes the pipes explode. These emotional tears actually have a cleansing effect, gliding out stress hormones and toxins in the brain and body. Then, we are free to be flooded with positive hormones and endorphins. But, how can we ensure that those positive waves of oxytocin and other feel-good hormones actually rush into that open space?

Tapping, or EFT Tapping, Intentionally Moves Energy Through The Body

Last month, I introduced the concept of EFT or Tapping. This accessible self-care tool can be self-led or guided by the use of an app, or trained therapist or coach. What I love about tapping is that you can physically feel the movement and release of heavy and hurtful emotions. As you move this energy through your body using the meridian points we discussed, these heavy emotions will physically release themselves.

Of course, the words you use matter. You get to choose the pain point, and the ways to reframe and move through that pain into an appropriate acceptance statement. Sometimes, those words will trigger a more intense emotional reaction. When some of my clients have used EFT tapping, they will experience a strong release of emotions. Some will begin sobbing or even just feeling a few streams of tears running down their cheeks. EFT International shares more about turning trauma tears into healing tears. 

If you would prefer to isolate your feelings, thoughts, emotions and take your tapping more deliberately, it is best to get really specific with your prompts and initial statements. This is especially important when tapping on trauma or grief events. Focus on one specific event, person, or action at a time to avoid feeling a flood over overwhelming emotions. Tapping too globally on these intense wounds can cause outbursts of despair and rage that are best processed with the help of a trained trauma therapist in a safe and protected setting.

Consider Working with Enid with Online Therapy in Florida or Coaching for Women

As always, I would love to support you. (Yes, even when you “ugly cry”!) If you are a woman in Florida needing a therapist, let’s talk! Though I’m based out of my therapy practice in Miramar, FL, I can actually help you wherever you are via online therapy in Florida. Outside of Florida, but still needing support to live your best, most authentic life? Let’s talk about how I may be able to help you through empowerment coaching for women! Check out the rest of my therapy blog for resources, thoughts, and additional self-care tools. I’m here for you and your journey to a more fulfilling and beautiful life.