HRV and Cognitive Function
Chapter 10
Key-Questions that are answered in this chapter:
- How are HRV, the brain, and executive functions connected?
- Can HRV be used to monitor mental fatigue and cognitive performance?
- Which strategies may improve cognitive functioning?
Key-Takeaways from this chapter:
- HRV reflects activity within the central autonomic network linking physiological and cognitive self-regulation.
- Higher resting HRV is often associated with better working memory, inhibition, and cognitive flexibility.
- Slow-paced breathing can support HRV, while activating strategies may be more appropriate when mental fatigue requires increased arousal.
- find out more below -
Can your heart predict how your brain performs?
Your heart and brain are constantly talking to each other.
HRV lets us listen to that conversation.
What happens when cognitive demand increases?
How do you feel?
I need to stay focused
➡ Cold water
➡ Fast paced breathing
➡ Short movement break
I can take a break
➡ Switch tasks
➡ Slow breathing
➡ Recover