EMDR Tapping & Butterfly Hug

The butterfly hug is a self-administered EMDR technique developed by Lucina Artigas in 1998. You cross your arms over your chest with your hands resting on opposite shoulders, then gently tap your shoulders alternately. It's used worldwide for trauma recovery, especially with children and groups.

Sit upright. Cross your arms so your right hand rests on your left shoulder and your left hand on your right shoulder. Tap slowly and rhythmically, alternating shoulders, while breathing deeply. Continue for 30–60 seconds, pause, notice what you feel, and repeat as needed.

Use it when you feel anxious, dysregulated, overwhelmed, or after a triggering event. It's also helpful as a daily grounding practice or alongside EMDR therapy between sessions.

No — you do the tapping yourself. The tool provides a steady left/right cue (visual indicator, optional click sound, and a soft vibration on supported phones) so you can keep a consistent rhythm without counting.

Yes. It was originally developed for child survivors of disaster and is widely used in pediatric trauma work. Children often pick it up quickly and find it self-soothing.

No. Tapping and the butterfly hug are powerful self-regulation tools, but resolving traumatic memories requires structured reprocessing with a licensed EMDR-trained therapist.