I'm writing this article with Valentine's Day only two weeks away. Many of us may be dreading this particular "special day". Perhaps it's because this date in the calendar highlights the fact that we do not have someone special to share the day with, or even if we do have a partner, Valentine's Day may still be less than perfect if our partner is too. (And aren't they all less than perfect?! Mine excepted of course!)

So how can you help yourself have a truly happy February 14th and happier romantic life in general by using EFT? Here are a few ideas that you can try . .

If you are not in a relationship (and would like to be) try using these EFT tips to help you find that perfect partner:

We all know that it is difficult to attract an ideal partner when we are desperate for a relationship. We send out the wrong signals and are more likely to repel rather than attract! And if we do find a partner when we are in this state of mind, often they are no where near right for us. So if you are looking for love, think about how you are feeling and tap on any negative thoughts you have about yourself or the situation you are in, not forgetting also to tap on your worst fears.

So for example, you might use EFT like this: "Even though I'll never find love . . it's too late for me . . I desperately need a partner . . I feel lonely because I'm single . ."

You may then find yourself both more accepting of your current situation and also able to think more clearly, without the emotional turmoil, about getting out and meeting your perfect partner. And then don't forget to use EFT for those first date nerves!

If you are already in a relationship, but feel that there is some "room for improvement" try using EFT in these creative ways:

Name 5 things that your partner does that irritate you and tap on each of them. E.g. "Even though Jack really annoys me when he leaves his towel on the bathroom floor / Jill infuriates me when she nags me about the towel on the bathroom floor, I deeply and completely accept myself". OK, so they were very stereotypical examples, but I'm sure you get the idea!

Are there specific times when you argue? In the evenings when you're tired? At the weekend when you spend a lot of time together? On special occasions like birthdays? It isn't unusual for couples to have set times when they seem to argue, and once we expect them to happen, this seems to encourage the arguments even more. Try and stop this cycle by tapping before your usual times of disagreements. So for example, on a Friday evening try: "Even though I know we'll argue this weekend as we always do, and I'm really dreading it..". If you're less anxious about the thought of having a run-in you will be less irritable, giving your partner nothing to react to and you may find the argument doesn't ever happen.

The ideas above are fun examples about how EFT can be used to resolve relatively minor niggles in healthy, happy relationships. If you feel you have more serious problems in your relationship you may wish to consult a practitioner one-to-one, whether that is for EFT, counselling or something else. Please do not use EFT to try and "cover up" serious or destructive problems in a relationship. Not only is it not in your best interests, but it also will not work.

© Sarah Holland, 2009.