We know that EMDR stimulates both sides of the brain (bilateral stimulation) and by doing so activates both sides of the brain in the processing of the distressing event or feelings. This brings about a deeper, more thorough processing of the traumatic event, or upsetting emotions. EMDR is stimulating the body's natural ability to heal and process experiences.

It's believed that the eye movements may be similar to REM sleep (Rapid Eye Movement) which is our body's natural way to process experiences by use of eye movements.

The effectiveness of EMDR may also be due to the fact that it facilitates dual awareness and dual processing - processing past visual material (the upsetting image you hold in your mind) while being anchored in the present with a visual or auditory cue (the moving light or tone.) The combination of being rooted in the present while processing past material seems to help people heal faster.

By stimulating both sides of the brain, and dual awareness processing, you are able to more fully process your experience rather than getting stuck looping over and over the same thing. EMDR used in conjunction with other therapeutic tools allows for a more thorough resolution -- a letting go.