What Is Access Bars? Your Guide To Overcoming Mental Blocks

Unlock the power to effortlessly overcome the nagging mental blocks that have held you back, from self-doubt to chronic procrastination, and discover a profound path to mental clarity and emotional freedom. This comprehensive guide will not only illuminate what these psychological barriers truly are but will also meticulously explain how Access Bars, a gentle yet potent energy technique, offers a unique and accessible solution to release limiting patterns and unleash your full potential.

What Are Mental Blocks, Truly? Unpacking the Invisible Barriers

Have you ever felt inexplicably stuck, unable to move forward despite your best intentions? That persistent feeling of being “blocked” often stems from what we call mental blocks—subtle yet powerful psychological barriers that reside within our subconscious mind. These aren’t just moments of distraction or forgetfulness; they are deeply ingrained patterns that can sabotage our productivity, creativity, decision-making, and overall well-being. Understanding their nature is the first step towards dismantling them.

Defining Mental Blocks: More Than Just a Bad Mood

Mental blocks are psychological impediments that prevent individuals from thinking clearly, making decisions, taking action, or accessing their full cognitive and emotional capacities. They manifest as a feeling of being ‘stuck’ or paralyzed, where one knows what needs to be done but struggles to initiate or complete it. Unlike a temporary lack of motivation, mental blocks often have deeper roots, influencing our perception of reality and our capabilities.

These blocks can be pervasive, affecting various aspects of life, from professional performance and personal relationships to creative pursuits and self-expression. They can cause significant frustration and self-doubt, leading to a cycle of inaction and negative reinforcement.

Common Causes: Where Do Our Blocks Come From?

The origins of mental blocks are multifaceted, often intertwined with our personal history, experiences, and learned behaviors. Some of the most common catalysts include:

• Limiting Beliefs: These are core assumptions about ourselves, others, or the world that we hold as absolute truths, often without conscious awareness. Examples include “I’m not good enough,” “I’ll always fail,” or “Success is for others.” These beliefs act as invisible ceilings, capping our potential.
• Past Trauma & Unresolved Emotions: Painful experiences, even those from childhood, can leave an energetic residue that manifests as emotional blocks. Fear, grief, anger, or shame, when not fully processed, can create energetic walls, preventing us from moving past the event.
• Fear of Failure & Success: The paradox of fear of success is as potent as fear of failure. Both can lead to self-sabotage, procrastination, or an unwillingness to take risks. The fear of not meeting expectations (our own or others’) can be paralyzing.
• Perfectionism: While seemingly a positive trait, extreme perfectionism often leads to paralysis by analysis. The pursuit of an unattainable ideal prevents any action from being taken, fostering procrastination and self-criticism.
• Negative Self-Talk: Constant internal criticism, doubt, and judgment create a corrosive mental environment. This inner critic can be relentless, eroding confidence and reinforcing feelings of inadequacy.
• Overwhelm & Information Overload: In our fast-paced world, too much information or too many demands can lead to a feeling of being swamped, making it difficult to prioritize or initiate tasks.

The Impact of Mental Blocks on Daily Life

The insidious nature of mental blocks means their impact can ripple through every aspect of our existence. Beyond simply making us feel “stuck,” they can lead to:

• Reduced productivity and chronic procrastination.
• Stifled creativity and innovation.
• Difficulty in making clear decisions, leading to inaction.
• Increased stress, anxiety, and even depression.
• Damaged self-esteem and confidence.
• Missed opportunities for personal and professional growth.
• Strained relationships due to emotional unavailability or frustration.

Introducing Access Bars: A Gateway to Clarity

In the quest for mental and emotional liberation, many modalities offer different approaches. Among them, Access Bars stands out as a unique energy healing technique developed to gently and effectively clear the static that prevents us from truly creating the life we desire. But what exactly is Access Bars therapy, and how does it propose to achieve such profound shifts?

The Genesis of Access Bars: Gary Douglas & Dain Heer

Access Bars is a core component of Access Consciousness, a set of pragmatic tools and processes designed to empower people to create a different reality. Founded by Gary Douglas in the early 1990s, with Dr. Dain Heer later joining as a co-creator, Access Consciousness aims to foster a space where individuals can know what they know and unlock their awareness. The Bars themselves were channeled by Douglas and represent a groundbreaking approach to releasing deeply ingrained patterns.

The philosophy behind Access Bars is simple yet profound: what if you could clear all the accumulated judgments, points of view, and limitations that you’ve been carrying, often unconsciously, since childhood? What if these “bars” of energy were the very things keeping you from fully experiencing joy, ease, and possibility?

How Access Bars Works: The 32 Points Explained

At the heart of an Access Bars session are 32 specific points on the head that are gently touched. Each of these 32 points of Access Bars corresponds to different areas and aspects of your life, such as money, control, creativity, power, aging, healing, joy, sadness, sexuality, and peace. Think of these points as energetic circuits where the electromagnetic component of all thoughts, ideas, attitudes, decisions, and beliefs you have ever had about any life area are stored.

When an Access Bars practitioner lightly touches these points, it’s believed to activate and facilitate the energetic discharge of the stored electromagnetic charge. This process is often likened to deleting old, unnecessary files from a computer’s hard drive. It clears out the clutter, the “junk data” that has accumulated over a lifetime, allowing more space for new possibilities, insights, and ease to emerge.

The Science (or Theory) Behind the Energy Release

While traditional scientific studies are still emerging for Access Bars, the underlying theory posits that our thoughts, emotions, and beliefs create electromagnetic charges. When these charges become fixed or solidified, they create a kind of static that prevents us from perceiving new possibilities or functioning optimally. By touching the Access Bars points, these charges are dissipated.

Anecdotal evidence and preliminary research suggest that running the Bars can induce brainwave shifts, moving individuals from a highly active beta state to a more relaxed theta or delta state. This state is often associated with deep relaxation, meditation, and receptivity to change. It’s in this relaxed state that the brain can more readily release old patterns and create new neural pathways. Many compare the experience to hitting the delete button on your mental files. The aim isn’t to erase memories or experiences, but rather to dissipate the emotional and energetic charge attached to them, allowing for a more neutral and empowering perspective. This process is inherently non-invasive and deeply relaxing, making it accessible to individuals of all ages and backgrounds seeking to clear their mental clutter.

Access Bars & Mental Blocks: A Synergistic Approach

The true power of Access Bars lies in its ability to directly address and facilitate the release of the very mechanisms that create and sustain mental blocks. By clearing the energetic charge associated with these limiting patterns, Access Bars creates a space for profound personal transformation, often with surprising ease and speed.

Releasing Limiting Beliefs & Thought Patterns

One of the most significant impacts of Access Bars treatment is its capacity to dismantle deeply ingrained limiting beliefs. These beliefs, often formed in childhood or through significant life events, operate beneath our conscious awareness, dictating our choices and perceptions. When an Access Bars session is run, it is believed to “defunk” or neutralize the energetic charge of these beliefs. This doesn’t mean you forget the belief, but rather the emotional and energetic weight attached to it dissipates. Suddenly, beliefs like “I am not worthy” or “I always mess things up” lose their power, opening the door for new, more empowering perspectives to take root.

Alleviating Stress, Anxiety, and Emotional Overwhelm

In our hyper-connected world, stress and anxiety have become ubiquitous. Access Bars therapy is widely recognized for its profound ability to reduce these states. Many individuals report feeling a significant decrease in mental chatter and emotional intensity during and after a session. By releasing the energetic accumulation of judgments, expectations, and projections from others and ourselves, a sense of calm and clarity often emerges. This reduction in background noise allows for greater peace and an improved ability to cope with daily stressors without succumbing to overwhelm.

Dissolving Trauma-Related Residue and Past Hurts

Past traumas, whether significant or seemingly minor, can leave energetic imprints that manifest as emotional blocks, fears, and a reluctance to fully engage with life. Access Bars does not re-traumatize; instead, it gently allows the body and mind to release the stored energy of these experiences. Many clients describe feeling a “weight lifted” or a profound sense of relief as old emotional charges related to trauma dissipate. This can lead to a greater capacity for joy, intimacy, and a feeling of being present, rather than constantly reliving the past.

Enhancing Clarity, Focus, and Decision-Making

A cluttered mind leads to cluttered decisions. When the static of old thoughts and emotions is cleared through Access Bars, mental clarity naturally increases. It becomes easier to discern what is truly important, to focus on tasks without distraction, and to make choices from a place of awareness rather than reactive programming. This enhanced cognitive function can be particularly beneficial for those struggling with brain fog, ADHD, or simply the daily deluge of information.

Overcoming Procrastination and Fear of Failure

Both procrastination and fear of failure are common manifestations of underlying mental blocks. Procrastination often stems from the fear of not being good enough, the overwhelm of perfectionism, or subconscious resistance to change. By dissolving the energetic components of these fears and judgments, Access Bars can help break the cycle of inaction. Individuals often find themselves more willing to take inspired action, knowing that “perfection” is less important than progress, and that failure is merely feedback, not a final verdict.

Your First Access Bars Session: What to Expect

Embarking on your first Access Bars session can be an exciting step toward greater ease and awareness. Knowing what to expect can help you relax and fully receive the benefits of this unique energy work.

Finding a Certified Practitioner Near You

The first step is to locate a qualified Access Bars practitioner near me. Access Consciousness maintains a global directory of certified facilitators and practitioners, making it easy to find someone in your area. Look for individuals with good reviews and who resonate with you. Many practitioners offer initial consultations to discuss your needs and answer any questions you might have.

The Consultation and Setting Intentions

Upon arrival, your practitioner will typically have a brief conversation with you. While Access Bars doesn’t require you to delve into your traumas or articulate specific issues in great detail, you might discuss what you’d like to change or what you’d like to create more of in your life. This isn’t about setting rigid intentions, but rather opening a space for possibilities. The beauty of Access Bars is that it often clears things you weren’t even consciously aware were limiting you.

During the Session: Relaxation and Release

A typical Access Bars session lasts between 60 to 90 minutes. You will lie fully clothed on a massage table, usually face up, in a comfortable and peaceful environment. The practitioner will then gently begin to touch the 32 specific points on your head. There’s no manipulation or massage involved; it’s a very light touch. Many people report feeling deeply relaxed, some even falling asleep. Others experience sensations like tingling, warmth, a feeling of lightness, or a quietening of their mind. It’s common for thoughts and emotions to surface and then simply dissipate without judgment. The experience is unique for everyone, but a profound sense of peace and release is a common outcome.

Post-Session Effects: Integration and Continued Change

After your session, you’ll likely feel a sense of lightness and clarity. The most common feedback is feeling “as if you’ve had the best massage of your life.” However, the effects of Access Bars often continue to unfold in the days and weeks following the session. You might notice subtle shifts in your perspective, a greater ease with situations that previously caused stress, improved sleep, or a spontaneous willingness to take action on goals you had procrastinated on.

It’s important to allow yourself space to integrate these changes, trusting that your body and being are clearing what’s no longer serving you.

Beyond the Session: Integrating Access Bars into Your Life

While a single Access Bars session can be profoundly transformative, understanding how to integrate its benefits and maintain mental clarity can amplify your results. It’s not just about what happens on the table, but how you live your life afterward.

Frequency of Sessions: How Often is Optimal?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer for how often you should receive Access Bars therapy. Some individuals find significant shifts after just one session and feel complete for a long time. Others prefer regular sessions—weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly—especially during periods of high stress, significant life changes, or when actively working on specific challenges like chronic anxiety or deep-seated patterns. Listening to your body and how you feel is key. The more you run your Bars, the more you begin to perceive what is truly possible and what limitations you can further release.

Can You Run Access Bars on Yourself?

Yes, you absolutely can! Once you’ve taken an Access Bars class, you’ll learn the specific hand positions and the sequence for activating the 32 points. Many people find learning to run their own Bars a powerful tool for self-care, allowing them to release stress and clear their minds whenever needed. While receiving Bars from another person can offer a deeper level of relaxation and energetic clearing (as you don’t have to “do” anything), self-application is a valuable skill for maintaining your energetic hygiene.

Complementary Practices for Sustained Clarity

To support and extend the benefits of Access Bars, integrating other mindful practices into your daily routine can create a powerful synergy:

• Mindfulness Meditation: Regular meditation helps you stay present, observe your thoughts without judgment, and become more aware of emerging mental blocks before they solidify.
• Journaling: Writing down your thoughts, feelings, and insights can be an incredible tool for self-reflection and releasing emotional baggage. It provides a tangible way to track your progress and identify recurring patterns.
• Physical Activity: Exercise is a powerful antidote to stress and mental stagnation. It boosts endorphins, improves circulation to the brain, and can physically shake loose stagnant energy.
• Hydration and Nutrition: A well-nourished and hydrated brain functions optimally. Focus on whole foods and adequate water intake to support cognitive clarity and energetic balance.
• Adequate Sleep: Prioritizing quality sleep allows your brain to process and consolidate information, repair itself, and clear out metabolic waste, which is crucial for mental resilience.

Addressing Common Questions & Criticisms About Access Bars

As with any energy modality or alternative healing practice, it’s natural to have questions and encounter skepticism. Transparency and a balanced perspective are crucial when exploring something new. Let’s address some of the most frequently asked questions about Access Bars.

Is Access Bars Scientifically Proven? Examining the Evidence

This is a common and valid question. Mainstream scientific research on Access Bars is still in its early stages compared to established medical treatments. However, preliminary studies have shown promising results. For example, a study by neuroscientist Dr. Jeffrey Fannin showed that receiving Access Bars had a significant positive effect on brain coherence and reduced the electrical charge in the brain, suggesting deep relaxation and increased neural integration. Dr. Terrie Hope’s research indicated that Access Bars reduced the severity of anxiety and depression. While more large-scale, peer-reviewed studies are needed, the existing data, combined with a vast amount of anecdotal evidence from individuals worldwide, points towards its efficacy. It’s important to approach Access Bars with an open mind, understanding that personal experience often precedes extensive scientific validation in the realm of energy work.

Are There Any Side Effects or Dangers? Safety Considerations

One of the appealing aspects of Access Bars is its gentle and non-invasive nature. There are generally no negative Access Bars side effects reported. Most people experience deep relaxation, often falling asleep during a session. Some may experience emotional releases such as tears or laughter as old energies dissipate, which is considered a natural part of the clearing process. There are no known contraindications; it’s safe for pregnant women, children, and individuals with health conditions. The worst that can happen, according to Access Consciousness, is you feel as relaxed as if you had a great massage. The best that can happen is your whole life changes.

Access Bars vs. Reiki & Other Energy Modalities

Many wonder how Access Bars compares to other well-known energy healing practices like Reiki. While both are gentle, non-invasive, and aim to facilitate healing and balance, their mechanisms differ. Reiki involves channeling universal life force energy through the practitioner’s hands to the client, often with specific hand positions over the body. It focuses on balancing the chakras and aura. Access Bars, conversely, focuses specifically on the 32 points on the head, aiming to directly dissipate the electromagnetic charge of thoughts, feelings, and emotions. It’s less about channeling and more about activating a “delete button” for limiting points of view. Both modalities can be incredibly effective, and personal preference often dictates which resonates more deeply with an individual.

What is the Cost of Access Bars Sessions and Training?

The Access Bars session price varies depending on the practitioner’s location, experience, and the length of the session. Generally, a 60-90 minute session can range from $75 to $200 USD or equivalent in local currency. The Access Bars class (which is a one-day training to become a practitioner) has a set global price determined by Access Consciousness, making it accessible worldwide. This price also varies by country and age group (children and teens often attend for free or at a reduced rate). This standardized pricing ensures consistency and accessibility for those wishing to learn and offer Bars sessions.

Becoming an Access Bars Practitioner: Training & Certification

The desire to share the profound benefits of Access Bars often leads individuals to explore becoming a certified practitioner. The journey is straightforward and opens doors to a deeper understanding of consciousness and energy work.

The Access Bars Class: What You Will Learn

The core of becoming an Access Bars practitioner is attending a one-day, in-person Access Bars class. These classes are facilitated by certified Access Bars Facilitators and are designed to be practical and experiential. During the class, you will:

• Learn the exact location of the 32 points on the head.
• Receive two full Access Bars sessions, allowing you to experience the clearing firsthand.
• Give two full Access Bars sessions under the guidance of the facilitator, gaining hands-on experience.
• Learn the verbal clearing statements of Access Consciousness, which are powerful tools for dissolving limiting thoughts and beliefs.
• Receive a comprehensive manual with head charts and instructions.

The class provides a supportive environment for learning, asking questions, and practicing. It’s often described as a day of profound receiving and letting go.

Certification Process and Facilitator Training

Upon completing one Access Bars class, you become an Access Bars practitioner, qualified to run Bars on friends, family, or paying clients. If you wish to teach Access Bars classes yourself and certify others, you would then pursue Access Bars facilitator certification, which requires completing additional advanced classes within Access Consciousness, including the Foundation Class and multiple Bars classes with different facilitators. This multi-step process ensures that facilitators have a deep and varied understanding of the tools and philosophy.

Benefits of Becoming a Practitioner

Becoming an Access Bars practitioner offers numerous advantages, both personal and professional:

• Enhanced Self-Care: The ability to run Bars on yourself, reducing stress and increasing clarity whenever needed.
• Empowering Others: The joy of facilitating profound change and ease for friends, family, and clients.
• Personal Growth: Continued energetic clearing and a deeper understanding of consciousness, leading to ongoing personal transformation.
• New Career Path: For many, it opens a path to a fulfilling career as an energy worker or an addition to existing holistic practices.
• Community: Access to a global community of practitioners and ongoing support.

The investment in an Access Bars class is an investment in your own energetic freedom and the capacity to empower others to find theirs.

Conclusion: Unlocking Your Full Potential with Access Bars

The journey to overcoming mental blocks is a path toward greater freedom, clarity, and personal empowerment. From the subtle limitations of limiting beliefs to the overwhelming weight of past traumas, these invisible barriers can significantly impede our ability to live a life of joy and possibility. Access Bars offers a unique, gentle, and profoundly effective approach to dissolving these energetic charges, creating space for new perspectives and choices.

By understanding what Access Bars is and how it meticulously works through the 32 points on the head, you can begin to perceive the vast potential for change it offers. Whether you seek to alleviate stress, enhance focus, release old patterns, or simply find more ease in your daily life, a session or a series of Access Bars treatments can be a catalyst for remarkable transformation. It’s an invitation to let go of what no longer serves you and to step into the expansive awareness of what you truly are capable of creating. Embrace the opportunity to “delete” the old programming and finally unlock your full, unhindered potential.