Combining Tapping With NLP Swish Patterns

Combining Tapping With NLP Swish Patterns

     For some time, I have explored how tapping could be used with the NLP Swish Pattern.  In and of itself, the pattern is a rapid way to replace one behavior/reaction for another dependent upon a particular trigger.  For example, let's say a student has an anxiety reaction to standardized tests.  They are fine with class tests, but get the anxiety with the major ones.  In such a case, there has to be a specific trigger that sets the anxiety program to "run".  

     The key to using the Swish is to identify the trigger.  This is essential.  In the Swish, you are, in essence, tying a desired behavior to the trigger (stimulus).  You would then identify the behavior you wish to change, and make a multi-modal image of it. In other words, create an image that also has what it sounds and feels like.  You would then do the same for the desired behavior.  When ready, you replace, switch out, or swish the images, having the undesired behavior in front, then replaced with the desired one.  This is done a few times, with more and more speed.  Eventually, when you think of the trigger, the new, desired behavior should come through.  

     Now I wondered, let's say we take this current example.  What if I combined tapping into this pattern and tweaked it a bit?  Here is how I've been working with it.  In the current scenario, the trigger is the test, specifically, seeing it on the desk.  I would take this client into state by imagining a time they took such a test.  As the behavior/reaction of anxiety begins, I instruct them to switch to tapping on the  point between the eyes. Then go back to the trigger, then switch to tapping on the side of the eye point.  Go back to the trigger, then switch to tap on the point under the eye.  Finally go back to the trigger, then switch to tapping on the collar bone point.  To end the round, squeeze the wrist while taking a deep breath in, the release the wrist while exhaling.  As in the classic Swish pattern, speed is a key.  Switching back and forth between the trigger and the tapping, faster and faster, does a very effective job of erasing the reaction to the trigger.

     This can then be followed up by the standard Swish, or another other "flip" technique or reframe.  Why not give it a try?  If you do, I'd love to hear from you about what you thought. 

     Until next time......