Have you explored Emotional Freedom Techniques before? A conversation with Jennifer Salaverri, LCSW-C, RYT 200, HeartMath Certified Trainer.

If not—don’t fret! When it comes to healing emotional pain, stress or trauma, there’s no single solution. For many, traditional talk therapy has been a powerful tool—but for others, it might not go deep enough. That’s where Emotional Freedom Technique, or EFT, comes in.

So what exactly is EFT, and why are so many people turning to it for emotional support and healing?

“EFT is a great way to allow expression of thoughts and feelings that we may be holding on a subconscious level.  It allows us to tap into the wisdom that exists in the intricate connection between our mind and body by tapping on specific acupressure points as we connect with thought patterns and feeling states.” 

EFT is a simple yet powerful practice that allows for the expression and release of thoughts and emotions—especially those we may not even be aware we’re holding on to. It works by tapping on specific acupressure points on the body, while simultaneously connecting with thought patterns and feeling states.

What makes EFT unique is how it bridges the mind and body. It gives us access to the wisdom stored in our nervous system—a kind of deep, intuitive knowing that we often can't reach with words alone.

Much like yoga, EFT creates space for inner awareness and emotional processing through the body. While yoga uses breath and movement to guide energy, EFT uses gentle tapping and focused attention to help release emotional blocks.

So what can you expect to receive/feel after integrating EFT  into your life?

“Simply put: feeling better/lighter emotionally. I am thinking of a former client who I saw after her son was killed (I was a trauma therapist at the VA for years and her son died in the line of duty).  We started doing EFT in sessions when she would just come and sob.  And she always left saying, “I feel better, I don’t understand it but I feel better.” I then had her continue using the practice at home.  EFT is a gentle way to help us release emotional energy that we may not be aware we are holding.” 

That’s the magic of EFT. It helps us release emotional energy we may not even realize we're holding. For some, it brings clarity about what they need to let go of. For others, it offers a surprising sense of calm.

People often notice an immediate shift in their nervous system—some feel tired (a sign their body has moved into a rest-and-repair state), while others feel more energized and grounded. The experience is deeply personal and often different from session to session.

How can I integrate EFT into my practice?

At Razz, we are pleased to be holding a special workshop with Jenn called Healing Within: EFT & Restorative Yoga on October 18th. Within this workshop, you can expect to discover a deeper connection to your body, release what no longer serves you, and leave feeling restored and balanced.

“It’s almost like journaling out loud with acupuncture without the needles!  Or a form of guided meditation/mindfulness that uses the tapping to keep the mind in the present.  I've worked with people who prefer it to meditation or breathing practice because it feels ‘easier’ for them.  It gives the mind something to focus on.”

Interested in joining us? Reserve your spot today here. We hope to see you there!