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Heart rate variability (HRV) and psychophysiological coherence

Preprint · May 2024

DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.18358.31043

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Heart rate variability (HRV) and psychophysiological coherence
"Calm better than joy. It is reliable."
(John Steinbock)
Heart rate variability (HRV) and coherence are two important physiological measurements that
provide insight into the functioning of the human body. Although they are distinct measurements,
there is a significant relationship between the two that is worth exploring.
First, let's define these terms. HRV refers to the variation in time between each heartbeat. It is a
measure of how well the nervous system is functioning, as it reflects the balance between the
sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) branches of the autonomic
nervous system. Coherence, on the other hand, refers to the synchronization between heart rate
variability and respiratory cycles. It is a measure of the harmonious relationship between the
heart and lungs, reflecting the efficiency of oxygen delivery throughout the body.
There is evidence to suggest that HRV and coherence are related to one another. Specifically,
when HRV is high, coherence tends to be high as well. One possible explanation for this
relationship is that a healthy autonomic nervous system, characterized by high HRV, facilitates
respiratory coherence by allowing the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches to work
together in a coordinated manner. This results in a smooth, regular pattern of heartbeats that is
responsive to changes in respiration.
In the study of coherence, the indicator "coherence coefficient" is used.
The coefficient of coherence is a statistical tool used in time series analysis to measure the linear
relationship between two signals at a specific frequency. It essentially determines how well
correlated two signals are at a particular frequency component.
In simpler terms, it reflects how much two waves move together at a certain frequency. A value of
1 indicates perfect coherence, meaning the waves are completely in sync at that frequency.
Conversely, a value of 0 signifies no coherence, implying the waves are unrelated at that
frequency.
Psychophysiological coherence is a state of optimal functioning characterized by increased vagal
activity and a more ordered heart rhythm pattern. It's often measured through heart rate
variability (HRV).
One common metric for assessing coherence is the heart rhythm coherence ratio, which
compares the power of the heart's rhythms in the low-frequency range (associated with
parasympathetic activity) to the power in the high-frequency range (linked to sympathetic
activity). A higher ratio indicates greater coherence.
In heart rate variability (HRV) analysis, coherence ratio refers to a specific metric used for
example by HeartMath devices. It reflects the amount of time a person spends in a state of
physiological coherence, which is considered a beneficial state associated with stress resilience
and emotional well-being.
A special method called biofeedback was created.
The ultimate goal of using the biofeedback method is for a person to learn to self-regulate their
emotions.
Psychophysiological coherence is characterized by a heart rhythm pattern of elevated amplitude
in low frequency heart rate variability of around 0.1 Hz and associated with synchronization
between positive emotions, cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, immune and other physiological
systems. The HeartMath Institute has developed a system of simple, user-friendly, mental and
emotional self-regulation tools and techniques. (11)
Studies have also shown that improvements in HRV and coherence can have positive effects on
physical and mental health. For example, high levels of HRV have been associated with reduced
risk of cardiovascular disease, improved cognitive performance, and better stress resilience.
Jeffery Davis et al in there work propose that the heart together with the brain and the
respiratory system are engaged in modulating cognitive states. (2).
One research demonstrates significant benefits of a short session of HRV-biofeedback QCT on
pilots’ resilience and cognitive process by improving psychophysiological coherence. (3)
Slow breathing has been used to improve psychophysiological regulation due to positive action
on the autonomic nervous system. (8)
Results in one study indicate that emotional oriented self-regulation techniques, such as the
Heart Coherence Technique or Antar Darshan meditation technique, could improve the outcomes
of chronic pain treatments.(9)
Heart rate variability (HRV) biofeedback is being used more frequently as part of a therapeutic
intervention package with stress management and psychotherapy, and HRV data is also used to
provide outcome evidence on the efficacy of treatment.(14)
The relationship between heart rate variability (HRV) and coherence reflects a connection
between physiological fluctuations in heart rate and the alignment of internal physiological
rhythms, particularly within the autonomic nervous system.
Coherence is a concept that describes the harmonious synchronization or alignment of oscillatory
patterns in physiological processes, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration. In the
context of HRV, coherence typically refers to the coordination and harmonization of different
components of heart rate variability, particularly in the low frequency (LF) and high frequency
(HF) bands.
Higher coherence in HRV patterns suggests greater coordination and synchronization within the
autonomic nervous system, signaling a state of increased physiological efficiency and
adaptability. This alignment of rhythms reflects optimal regulatory processes within the body,
with implications for emotional self-regulation, stress resilience, and overall well-being.
Research has linked higher coherence in HRV to improved cognitive function, emotional balance,
and enhanced adaptability to stressors. Conversely, reduced coherence in HRV has been
associated with decreased emotional regulation, cognitive performance, and resilience to stress.
The examination of coherence in HRV patterns provides valuable insights into autonomic
function and the dynamic interplay between physiological and emotional states. Additionally,
interventions aimed at enhancing coherence in HRV, such as biofeedback and mindfulness
practices, have been explored as potential strategies for improving emotional and physical well-
being.
Understanding the relationship between HRV and coherence underscores the intricate
connections between physiological rhythms and mental-emotional states, emphasizing the
integrated nature of mind-body interactions and their relevance to health and wellness.
In simpler terms, HRV provides a window into your overall autonomic nervous system function,
and coherence is a specific pattern within HRV that indicates a particularly balanced and
beneficial state.
Coherence means complete balance between human mind, body and emotions!

References
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Behaviour of Heart Rate Variability (HRV) with the aid of Markov Chains Theory and Transition
Probability Matrices Towards the understanding of Psychophysiological Coherence and its
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2. Davis, Jeffery Jonathan Joshua & Schubeler, Florian & Kozma, Robert. (2021).
Psychophysiological Coherence in Community Dynamics -A Comparative Analysis between
Meditation and Other Activities On the Road to a Brain--Heart--Respiration Coherence
Approach Towards Inner Peace and Social Harmony.
3. Zhang, Jingyi & Li, Wen-Chin & Andrews, Gavin. (2022). Applying psychophysiological
coherence training based on HRV-biofeedback to enhance pilots resilience and wellbeing.
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