The 5 steps
- Name what's on your mind. Pick ONE thing — the deadline, the conversation, the goal you're chasing. Rate how intense it feels right now from 0 to 10. (You'll compare after.)
- Say your setup statement. Tap the side of your hand (the fleshy edge — the "karate chop" point) while saying, out loud if you can: "Even though [what's on your mind], I deeply and completely accept myself." Repeat three times, naming the real thing — specific beats polite.
- Tap through the 8 points, in order. Tap each point gently 5–7 times while saying a short reminder phrase (like "this pressure" or "this deadline"). The order is below.
- Breathe and re-rate. One deep breath in, hold, and let it go. Rate the intensity again, 0–10.
- Repeat rounds until it drops. Most people do 2–3 rounds. A complete ritual — breathing, setup, rounds — takes about 9 minutes.
The 9 tapping points, in order
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Frequently asked questions
How long should I tap each point?
Gently, 5–7 taps per point — about the time it takes to say one reminder phrase out loud. A round takes about a minute; a session is usually 2–3 rounds.
Which hand or side should I use?
Either — the points mirror on both sides. Use whichever feels natural, or both hands at once.
What do I say while tapping?
A setup statement naming the real issue plus acceptance, then a short reminder phrase at each point. Honest and specific beats scripted and vague.
Is tapping a medical treatment?
No. Tapping is a wellness practice — studies suggest it can help you feel lighter and more focused, but it is not medical or psychological treatment.
Keep going
Once the sequence feels familiar, the practice becomes about consistency — a short daily ritual beats an occasional long one. Related reading: the best tapping apps of 2026 compared (prices included).