The Effects of Mindfulness and Meditation on Vagally Mediated Heart Rate Variability: A Meta-Analysis.
Psychosom Med July 1, 2021 DOI: 10.1097/psy.0000000000000900 (opens in new tab) via PubMed Central
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractThis meta-analysis examined the effects of mindfulness and meditation practices on vagally mediated heart rate variability (vmHRV), a marker of parasympathetic nervous system activity. The analysis suggests that these practices are associated with small but significant increases in vmHRV, indicating enhanced parasympathetic regulation. The effect was consistent across different types of mindfulness and meditation interventions, though the magnitude varied by study characteristics. The findings indicate that mindfulness and meditation may support physiological relaxation and stress recovery, but the overall effect is modest and influenced by factors such as practice duration and participant health status.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Meta-analysis Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key finding | Mindfulness and meditation practices are associated with small but significant increases in vagally mediated heart rate variability. |
Abstract
The Effects of Mindfulness and Meditation on Vagally Mediated Heart Rate Variability: A Meta-Analysis.