A Modified Tapping and Sensory Stimulation Protocol for Rapid Emotional Regulation: Description, Theoretical Foundations, and Evidence from Related Interventions

Emotional regulation is a critical aspect of mental health, enabling individuals to manage negative emotions such as anger, regret, fear, and interpersonal distress effectively. This paper introduces a modified tapping and sensory stimulation protocol designed for self-administered emotional release, drawing from cognitivebehavioral principles and somatic interventions. The protocol involves focused introspection on a specific negative issue, intensity rating, and a sequence of physical actions including eye movements, facial rubbing, and chest tapping to disrupt and reduce emotional intensity. Based on a detailed descriptive account, this technique is positioned within the broader context of evidence-based practices like Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT). A comprehensive literature review synthesizes findings from over 100 studies on EFT and similar methods, demonstrating large effect sizes for reducing anxiety (d = 1.23), depression (g = 1.268), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms (effect sizes 1.38–2.51), and other conditions. The proposed protocol’s potential mechanisms, including autonomic nervous system modulation and physiological marker improvements (e.g., cortisol reduction by 37%), are discussed. Limitations, applications, and directions for empirical validation are outlined, emphasizing its accessibility for diverse populations facing everyday stressors.