Let us discuss the findings of the meta-analysis that examined the relationship between heart rate variability (HRV) and meditation practices.
Heart Rate Variability (HRV) is an indicator of autonomic nervous system function related to both physical and mental health.[Source:ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
HRV:
Results from numerous studies claim that mindfulness- and meditation-based treatments (MBIs) are linked to improvements in HRV, but findings are mixed.[Source:ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
HRV and Meditation:
To identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs), systematic literature searches were carried out using PsycINFO, Embase, Medline, CINAHL, ERIC, and Scopus.[Source:ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
Methods:
The study looked at various types of meditation, including mindfulness meditation, and moving meditations(yoga).
Types of Meditation:
This type of meditation involves paying attention to the present moment and is associated with improvements in stress and anxiety and has a positive effect on HRV.[Source:ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
Mindfulness Meditation:
Yoga is a type of moving meditation that involves physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation. Regular yoga practice has been found to improve HRV, and heart health and reduce stress.[Source:www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
Moving Meditation:
After analyzing various studies, it was found that mindfulness-based interventions did not show significant improvement in vagally-mediated resting heart rate variability compared to control conditions.[Source:ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
Study Results:
Other factors that affect HRV include age, sex, and physical activity levels.[Source:ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
Factors That Affect HRV:
Improved HRV has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, as well as improvements in mental health and overall well-being.[Source:ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
Benefits of Improved HRV:
Short-term changes in HRV indices were observed during meditation, but there is limited evidence for significant long-term effects.[Source:ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]
Conclusion: