Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) Bundle (50 pages)

Butterfly Hug Protocol

Butterfly Hug Technique Instructions

Hand Placement: Detailed steps on how to correctly position the hands Follow these steps to ensure effective bilateral stimulation: Position Your Hands : Cross your arms over your chest so that each hand rests on the opposite upper arm or shoulder. This mimics the wings of a butterfly—hence the name of the technique. Hand Shape : Keep your hands flat against your body. Your fingers should be relaxed and slightly spread apart to cover more area for a comforting touch. Finger Placement : Ensure that your fingertips are just below the collarbone. This position helps in creating a gentle but firm pressure, enhancing the sensation needed for effective tapping. Comfort Check : Before you begin, make sure that this position feels comfortable and sustainable for a period of time. Adjust your arms or hands slightly if needed to avoid any strain or discomfort. Following these steps will help you set up for the Butterfly Hug correctly, facilitating the desired bilateral stimulation while maintaining physical comfort throughout the exercise. Tapping Process: Step-by-step guide on how to perform the tapping Start Position: Once your hands are correctly positioned on your shoulders or upper arms, ensure you are sitting comfortably and your back is supported. Initiate Tapping: Begin by lightly tapping your left hand on your left shoulder or upper arm. The taps should be gentle and rhythmic. Alternate Taps: After a tap with the left hand, follow with a tap from the right hand on the right shoulder or upper arm. Continue this alternating pattern throughout the exercise. Rhythm and Pace: Maintain a steady, rhythmic pace that feels comfortable for you. The typical recommendation is about two taps per second, but adjust according to what feels soothing. Duration: Continue the tapping process while focusing on the distressing memory or emotion for a predetermined time, usually between 2 to 5 minutes. However, the duration can be adjusted based on your comfort level and the intensity of the emotional response. Mindful Focus: As you tap, keep your attention on the distressing memory or emotion. Notice any changes in your thoughts, feelings, or body sensations without judgment. Conclude Tapping: Once the session is over or if you feel a significant reduction in distress, gradually slow down the tapping until you stop. Take a moment to breathe deeply and reorient yourself to the present. Duration and Pace: Recommendations on how long to continue tapping and the pace of the taps Below are guidelines on how long to continue the Butterfly Hug tapping and at what pace. This will help ensure the exercise is done effectively and comfortably. Here's what to include: