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Newsletter and EFT Tips:
Newsletter and EFT Tips:
Sophia Strategies:
Challenging Weight Issues
Session Stories:
Mystery Pain and Underlying Issues
EFT Learning Tools:
EFT Level 3: Intensive EFT Mastery class
New EFT Navigators Podcast - Episode 3: Thoughts on One Minute Wonders
EFT Language: Book I - Now available for bulk orders
Sophia Strategies:
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New Year's resolutions usually include promising to take better care of ourselves and perhaps losing a few pounds. During the holidays we found ourselves struggling to resist all the amazing goodies and fabulous food that seemed to be everywhere. Who would want to resist? So you gave in, partied hardy, and then when you stepped on the scale, regret set in. Please don't be hard on yourself and know that with a little persistence and EFT you can work your way through it.
In this newsletter, we are addressing complex weight issues which tend to be a bit more challenging.
Thanks to Ann who wrote:
"Of my issues, the one I can see working on now is weight. I recently gained over ten pounds and now I'm over 240. I need to be 180 or less. I used to be 140 but that might be too gaunt now. Even 170 would be good, and 160 might be OK.
I am filled with anxiety and terror, which I avoid feeling by stuffing them down with anything I can put in my mouth easily and conveniently, such as cookies usually, crackers or candy sometimes, and sometimes ice cream. Since I have ulcerative colitis I can't eat raw veggies and I'm too lazy to cook, so veggies are not convenient. Cookies are convenient. However, I once lost 60 lbs and kept it off for ten years, by eating lots of broccoli and NO junk food. But this past year or two that's all out the window and I'm eating as if there's no tomorrow, and the stuff I'm eating has already got me borderline diabetic. If I keep it up, real diabeties could follow. I NEED to cut out junk and eat more broccoli and other fresh fruits and steamed veggies. Please help me."
It is great that Ann has acknowledged and identified some of the reasons for her overeating, because we can't change what we don't acknowledge.
My approach would be multi-faceted to ensure success. Realize that while you may view some of the various issues as unrelated, in my opinion they are all interrelated. Since your goal is to focus on weight loss, eliminating the underlying causes is a must. It's not simply about the food!
1) Anxiety and terror - each should be addressed separately, making sure that every contributing event and factor are considered. Who or what originally generated or continues to generate the anxiety and terror? By eliminating the constant anxiety and terror, you lessen the need to "stuff them down".
2) Tap on the compulsion to "stuff it down" with junk food, while incorporating phrases to help you develop healthier eating habits. 2A) If you have had this challenge for an extended period of time, it is possible that after the anxiety and terror are relieved, you may find that you have developed a habit that will require your attention.
3) Ulcerative colitis - As you work under the supervision of your professional health care provider, you can use EFT to address both the physical symptoms and the underlying emotional causes. In my experience, while there could be many reasons, the related issues tend to be about fears, insecurities or letting go of the past. A little detective work may be required to determine the underlying causes. I wouldn't be surprised if you began to experience some symptom relief as you work your way through the anxiety and terror
4) Too lazy to cook - My guess is it truly isn't about being lazy, but possibly related to stress and mental fatigue. More than likely the constant anxiety and terror have zapped your energy and desire to take proper care of yourself. It is also possible that your reluctance or lack of motivation to take care of yourself also involves additional underlying issues. This brings us back to detective work, ferreting out all the underlying causes and working through them.
Self Care
Since this is a complex issue, the assistance of a seasoned EFT practitioner should be given great consideration. While a great deal that can be accomplished on your own, working with a qualified practitioner offers you a better chance of being sure you are reaching all the associated issues and aspects.
By working through the issues one step at a time and applying persistence, success can be achieved. Consider scheduling appointments with yourself for tapping sessions. Make it a part of your daily routine, just like you would brushing your teeth. View it as an essential element of self care.
Probably the most important suggestion I can offer you would be to be patient, kind and gentle with yourself. Tap on any frustrations you may be experiencing because of the circumstances. Recognize that since this as a complex issue, you may be best served working with an experienced EFT coach or practitioner. While EFT allows us the opportunity to work through many issues on our own, there is a time we need to seek professional assistance.
Thanks for your email Ann and I hope this helps you begin this new year with hope and determination. I wish you and everyone the best in resolving challenges to allow this year to be your best year yet.
Hugs & gratitude,
Sophia
Session Stories: by Jade Barbee, EFT-Adv halcyonday.net
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This week I had the pleasure of working with a woman with chronic pain issues in her joints and wrists. After a couple rounds addressing the pain itself (and getting nowhere), I asked what she thought the pain might be about. Her answer: stress at work. As we followed the trail and addressed many of the uncomfortable moments on the job, we tested the pain levels. Immediately the pain had diminished until it was at a zero by sessions' end - without us ever working directly with the pain again!
Does the mean the pain will not return? Maybe and maybe not - more exploration may be required. But if you're not getting anywhere with symptoms, try guessing at the underlying issues and follow the sights, sounds and stories that are rising to the surface. I also recommend getting as comfortable as you can with 'the movie technique' and the 'tell the story' technique. Doing so you will help you approach any situation with confidence and skill.