"If comfort had a flavor, what would it be?" asked an advertisement inside a Starbucks store. "Vanilla," was the answer it provided. And the store probably sold a lot of vanilla that day, because we all want comfort.

The real question is, "What will provide comfort in the short term that is also beneficial in the long-run?" Some self-soothing techniques have positive long-term side effects and some are costly in terms of health and ultimate happiness. Children use thumbs and well-worn blankets as pacifiers. Adults have more resources and can choose to use friends, hobbies, nature, exercise, or spirituality. They might also choose compulsive shopping, foods, cigarettes, alcohol, or addictive behaviors.

We know that advertisers are really selling their products, but what is it we really want to buy? When we are stressed, it is probably peace of mind and relaxation. When we are depressed it might be stimulation, comfort and love. However, what we really want is balance.

There is a self-soothing tool, called Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), that can restore inner balance to all distressing feelings. Part of a field called Energy Psychology, EFT incorporates stimulating the end-points of acupuncture meridians to remove blockages in energy flow. You simply tap on these easy-to-find points yourself while thinking about the issue. It is quick comfort with long-term positive side-effects. With a more balanced mind/body you can then think clearly, avoid temptations and achieve goals.

The web-site www.emofree.com offers a free 80 page manual and newsletter. EFT Founder, Gary Craig and everyday citizens, physicians and therapists give a sampling of actual cases.

Dr. Kathy Doner is a Board-Certified Internal Medicine Physician, Certified Hypnotherapist, Nutritionist, NLP Trainer and EFT Practitioner. Because EFT is best taught by a trained professional, Dr. Kathy Doner will be presenting "Emotional Freedom Technique: A Simple Tool for Controlling Cravings and Stress" on Wednesday, March 5, 6:30-8:30pm at Sebastian River Medical Center and again on Monday, April 7 for $25. Pre-registration is required. Please call 772-581-0221 or visit www.KathyDonerMD.com, click on workshops. Dr. Doner’s office is located at 529 E. New Haven Ave in Melbourne (321-258-9698) and at 7766 Bay St. Ste. 11, Sebastian (772-581-0221). Free phone consultation.