EFT practice offers a sandbox for safely encountering and processing our emotions. There are quite a few theories so far on how and why EFT works.
On physical tapping:
EFT utilizes the percussion/tapping stimulation of specific acupuncture points in the upper body within the primo vascular system, a newly discovered microcirculatory system embedded within fascial structures. There is some evidence that such EFT tapping protocols seem to result in limbic system down regulation similar to the needling of specific acupuncture points.1
Desensitizing the amygdala and stress response:
Another theory behind EFT’s effectiveness suggests that it works by desensitizing the amygdala and then counter-conditions stress responses1
Desensitization of the amygdala can occur when the amygdala learns that something is not dangerous through experience.1
So by encountering something that we’ve feared or felt a negative emotion toward in the safe space of a tapping session, we can recognize a newfound safety and replace our emotional response to a past event or future imagined event.
Co-regulation with a practitioner
When working with an EFT practitioner, there is an effect called co-regulation that supports our sense of safety and relaxation while working on challenging emotions, memories, or thought patterns.
The social engagement system is activated when people feel safe, and it facilitates connection with others. This in turn promotes co-regulation between individuals. This can be described as when two individuals in the presence of each other create a supportive compassionate environment and as a result are better able to manage their emotions and behaviors. Co-regulation, can help people soothe and manage internal sensory input or external situations This emphasis on interpersonal connection and attunement may enhance the effectiveness of EFT in promoting emotional healing and interpersonal relationships.1