Book’s novel way to counter stress
Aotea author Debby Guddee launches a book at the end of this month, Discover the Magic of EFT for Bullying.
Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) is a counselling approach to counter stress, anxiety and, Guddee, says, bullying faced by children.
The self-administered therapy was developed in the United States in the late 1990s and uses fingers to tap on certain points of the face and the body, known as acupressure points.
Guddee described it as ‘‘ the emotional version of acupuncture’’. She said there would be sceptics, but the practice of EFT was becoming more widespread.
She has seen positive results from sessions she has had with clients, young and old, and wishes EFT had been around when she faced terrible bullying at school.
‘‘It’s a way to self-manage and become more confident, doing something positive at times when you may feel vulnerable or helpless.
‘‘ Bullying is something I endured and I have watched EFT work with children who are in similar situations. I know it works.’’
Guddee knows of four other people who are EFT-accredited in New Zealand, as she is.
Though the technique is not recognised formally in this country, she hoped it could gain a foothold in schools and be used by parents and teachers.
‘‘People who see or hear about EFT do think it is mumbo jumbo, but it has gained a lot of attention in America for the way it worked with Vietnam veterans, helping with sleeping disorders and to relieve the dependence on medication. At the end of the day, I’m providing a coping mechanism and another technique for counselling.’’
Discover the Magic of EFT for Bullying is aimed at 7 to 12-yearolds. The self-published book will be launched at Porirua Library on July 31. It is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and most e-readers for between $20 and $25.
Guddee is in Australia this week, meeting publishers. Her children’s book My Favorite Hugs, which she wrote with her daughter, Melissa, continues to sell well and a follow-up is planned.