Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), also known as tapping, can calm an overactive mind and soothe late-night worries. Below is a simple bedtime routine to guide you.
Why EFT Tapping Helps Before Bed
EFT combines gentle tapping on specific acupressure points with focused statements about your current state. It helps ease tension, making it easier to drift into sleep. Many people find it reduces the mental chatter that keeps them awake.
Set the Scene
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Dim all lights at least 30 minutes before you plan to sleep
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Plug your phone into a charger in a different room or turn on “Do Not Disturb” mode
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Find a quiet corner in your bedroom or a calm space
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Decide to give yourself these few minutes of calm without guilt
Step-by-Step EFT Tapping Routine
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Identify the Stress
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Notice any frustration about scrolling or any anxiety about tomorrow.
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Sum it up in a simple phrase. For example: “Even though I feel annoyed with myself, I accept who I am.”
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Begin Tapping
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Use two or three fingers to gently tap the side of your hand (the fleshy edge below your pinky).
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Repeat your phrase three times while tapping.
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Move Through Key Points
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Continue tapping as you speak a short reminder of the stress: “Annoyed at myself” or “Feeling restless”
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Tap each point for a few seconds:
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Eyebrow (just above the inner edge)
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Side of eye (bone at the outer corner)
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Under eye (bone below the pupil)
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Under nose (between lip and nose)
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Chin (center of the groove)
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Collarbone (slightly below the hard knobs)
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Underarm (a few inches below the armpit)
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Top of head (gently on the crown)
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Acknowledge the Shift
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After tapping one round, pause and breathe deeply.
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Rate your annoyance or stress level. If it’s still high, do another round.
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Use a Positive Reframe
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For a second or third tapping round, replace your reminder phrase with words that invite ease.
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Examples: “I can release this stress” or “I’m allowed to rest tonight.”
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Close with Stillness
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After tapping, sit quietly.
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Let your eyes close and focus on your breath for a minute or two.
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Practical Tips for Better Nights
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Limit Caffeine after midday. Stimulants can linger and amplify restlessness.
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Create a Wind-Down Habit by journaling or reading before bed.
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Skip the Endless Feeds. If you must use your phone, try an audiobook or soothing music instead of social media.
Your goal is to build a gentle transition from a busy day to restful sleep. Trust that EFT tapping can help guide you through late-night anxiety and self-criticism. Every small step you take tonight makes drifting off that much easier.
Try these steps tonight. If you find them helpful, share your experience or pass this routine on to a friend who needs better rest.
For a quick reset during stressful days that lead to restless nights, try The 90-Second Reset.
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