🔼: [[🕯️ Self-Regulation]] ##### 🛠 Bilateral Stimulation Borrowed from [[💡 Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing|EMDR]], bilateral tapping or bilateral stimulation is a therapeutic method used to help process and integrate traumatic memories or experiences. It involves tapping or lightly alternating touches on various parts of the body, such as the knees, shoulders, or hands. Some therapists use auditory or visual stimulation, such as using headphones that deliver alternating sounds or watching a moving light or object. The theory is that it helps activate both sides of the [[💡 Brain|Brain]], helping the hemispheres communicate with one another, reducing [[💡 Emotional Dysregulation|emotional dysregulation]], resolving trauma, and even helping with learning. Its effectiveness and specific applications may vary from person to person, so consult with a professional may be helpful. ###### Using Bilateral Tapping Timing is roughly one tap per second. - Self-tap from one knee to the other - Tap one foot then the next - Flex the toes on one foot then the next - Pressing fingers together - [[🛠 Butterfly Hug]] - Stand and step in place left to right - Bilateral Tapping is preferred to eye movements as research shows tapping is less powerful and slower-acting, and slower means more control and safety.[^1] > [!info] When to Use Bilateral Stimulation > - …during strong positive and connective experiences with [[💡 Parts|Parts]] > - ...while [[🛠 Orienting Strategies|orienting Parts to the present]] > - …while [[💡 Witnessing]] an [[💡 Exiles|Exile]]. ###### Related - [[🛠 Emotional Eye Access Exercise]] [^1]: [[📖 🟢 Trauma and Dissociation Informed Internal Family Systems]]