As someone who has experienced the heartbreak of baby loss, I’m always on the lookout for healing techniques that can help grieving parents. Recently, I had the pleasure of speaking with Maria Yakimchuk, a certified transformational coach who specializes in helping moms heal from postpartum depression and anxiety using a unique approach that includes Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), also known as tapping.
What is EFT Tapping?
EFT is a form of energy healing that combines elements of acupressure and psychology. It involves tapping on specific points on the body while focusing on emotional issues. Here’s what makes it special:
- It targets the autonomic nervous system, which controls our fight-or-flight response.
- It helps release stored traumas and emotions from the body.
- It can be gentler than traditional talk therapy, as it doesn’t require reliving traumatic experiences.
How EFT Can Help After Baby Loss
Maria explained that EFT can be particularly beneficial for those who have experienced pregnancy or baby loss:
- It can help process grief more efficiently.
- It can reduce feelings of self-blame and shame.
- It can alleviate anxiety and depression related to the loss.
- It can ease the emotional challenges of subsequent pregnancies.
- It can improve bonding with future children by reducing lingering trauma.
A Simple EFT Technique to Try
While it’s best to work with a trained practitioner for serious issues, Maria shared a basic EFT sequence:
- Start by tapping the “karate chop” point on the side of your hand while saying a setup phrase three times: “Even though I have this problem, I love, accept, and forgive myself.”
- Then, tap through these points while focusing on your issue:
- Top of the head
- Eyebrow
- Side of the eye
- Under the eye
- Under the nose
- Chin
- Collarbone
- Under the arm
Repeat this sequence as needed.
Why Consider EFT for Healing?
- It’s a gentle approach that doesn’t require reliving trauma.
- It can work faster than traditional talk therapy for some issues.
- Once learned, it can be used as a self-help technique.
- It addresses both the emotional and physical aspects of healing.
Remember, while EFT can be a powerful tool, it’s essential to work with a qualified practitioner, especially when dealing with significant trauma or loss. EFT can complement other forms of therapy and support, giving you another valuable tool in your healing journey.
If you’re interested in learning more about EFT and how it might help you, visit Maria’s website at parentonboard.com or follow her on social media @ParentOnboardCoaching.
Healing after baby loss is a journey, and it’s okay to explore different methods that resonate with you. EFT tapping might just be the technique that helps you find some peace and move forward while honoring your baby’s memory.
Jennifer Senn is a certified life coach and mom to 3 living children and stillborn twins. She works with stillbirth moms to help them let go of guilt, process their grief, and find out what’s next for their future. You can find out more at jennifersenn.com
