Your first rounds
What to do if the intensity changes
Down, stuck, or up — each means something different.
By the end of this lessonRespond correctly to any direction the number moves.
Going down is the ordinary case: keep tapping on what's left until it flattens.
Stuck usually means you're tapping on something too general, or a different part of the issue has taken over. Get more specific, or ask what the feeling is really about.
Going up happens sometimes, and it isn't failure — it usually means you've made contact with the real material. Keep tapping; the number typically comes down within a round or two. If it keeps climbing or you feel overwhelmed, stop, ground yourself, and come back later or with support.
If intensity rises sharply, you feel flooded, or a traumatic memory takes over, stop the round and use Ground Me. Strong or persistent distress deserves a qualified professional, not a self-help app.
Techniques in this lesson
Check your understanding
The number won't move at all. Most likely reason?
Log a practice round
Run a round on one target and record the before and after ratings.
Sources
- Church, D. (2013). Clinical EFT as an evidence-based practice. Psychology, 4(8).
- EFT Universe — The Basic Recipe (eftuniverse.com)
TapFirst is a self-reflection and wellness tool, not therapy or medical care.