Parenting can feel like a whirlwind of emotions, especially when you’re managing a child’s anxiety alongside your own. Moments of overwhelm can strike without warning—a meltdown in the middle of the grocery store, sibling squabbles that seem endless, or the dreaded homework battles. In these moments, it’s easy to feel helpless or reactive. That’s where the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), or tapping, can be a lifesaver.
EFT is a simple, evidence-based tool that combines gentle tapping on specific acupressure points with verbal affirmations. It’s designed to help release emotional tension, calm the nervous system, and bring you back to a centered state. And the best part? It can be done in just a few minutes, making it perfect for those high-pressure parenting moments.
Here are three quick EFT techniques to help you navigate overwhelming situations:
1) The “Mini Tap” for Instant Calm
When emotions start to spiral, take a deep breath and try this:
Acknowledge Your Feeling: Say out loud or to yourself, “Even though I’m feeling overwhelmed right now, I deeply and completely accept myself.”
Tap Key Points: Using your fingertips, gently tap the following points while repeating the affirmation:
- Side of the Hand (Karate Chop Point)
- Top of the head
- Eyebrow
- Side of the Eye
- Under the Eye
- Under the nose
- Under the mouth
- Collarbone
- Under the arm
- Breathe: After a few rounds, take a slow, deep breath. Notice if the intensity of your overwhelm has shifted.
This quick exercise can be done discreetly, even in public, to help you regain composure.
2) The “5-Tap Reset” for Grounding.
Use this technique to ground yourself when chaos feels unmanageable:
Find a quiet moment (even stepping into another room for 30 seconds).
Tap on these points while repeating, “I’m safe, I’m present, I’m doing my best.
- Side of the Hand (Karate Chop Point)
- Top of the head
- Eyebrow
- Side of the Eye
- Under the Eye
- Under the nose
- Under the mouth
- Collarbone
- Under the arm
Repeat the sequence two or three times, focusing on the words and your breath.
This method helps reset your energy and brings your focus back to the present moment.
3) Tapping Together: A Connection Technique
In overwhelming moments with your child, try tapping together. This not only calms you both but strengthens your bond.
Sit with your child and explain: “We’re going to do something to help us feel better.”
Tap on the same points together, saying affirmations like:
“Even though we’re feeling stressed, we’re safe and loved."
” We can handle this together.”
Encourage your child to share how they’re feeling and tap along as they express their emotions.
This shared activity teaches emotional regulation and empowers your child with a practical tool for managing their own anxiety.
Parenting isn’t about being perfect; it’s about showing up with love and resilience, even in challenging moments. EFT offers a simple yet powerful way to navigate overwhelming feelings, helping you stay grounded and connected to your child. With practice, these techniques can become your go-to toolkit for calm amidst the chaos.
So the next time life feels too much, take a moment, tap, and breathe. You’ve got this!