https://allthingsautonomic.com/breathing/https://allthingsautonomic.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/img_2780.jpgIMG_2780This is a screen shot of the last column, which represents breathing at 6 breaths per minute, showing in “real-time” the heart rate (line in red), the respiration (line in blue), and any relationship (coherence) between the two. Notice the significant change in heart rate variability, going from a relatively flat red line, to one that rises and falls with the breath. This increase in variability indicates a decrease in sympathetic tone. Also notice the significant increase in coherence, or synchronicity, between the heart and breath. https://allthingsautonomic.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/img_2779.jpgIMG_2779This is a screen shot of the first column, which represents un-paced breathing, showing in “real-time” the heart rate (line in red), the respiration (line in blue), and any relationship (coherence) between the two. Notice the poor variability, or “flatness” of the heart rate, indicating increased sympathetic tone. Also notice the absence of coherence, or any synchronicity between the heart and breath. https://allthingsautonomic.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/img_2777.jpgIMG_2777This is a zoomed in shot of the last column, showing breathing at 6 breaths per minute. Compared to the first column, notice how the breathing (top line in blue) is much larger in volume, symmetrical, and without any extended pauses or “holds” at the end of exhalation. Also, notice the heart rate (second line in red) is no longer “flat” and shows increased and consistent variability in rate, which reflects decreased sympathetic tone. The third line (also in blue) no longer moves up and down and its flatness reflects a constant breath rate. Finally, the much higher score of the heart rate/respiration rate coherence (orange line at the bottom), reflects an improved synchronicity between the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.https://allthingsautonomic.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/img_2776.jpgIMG_2776This is a zoomed in shot of the first column, showing un paced breathing. Compared to the last column, notice how the breathing (top line in blue) is shallow and rapid (averaging 17 breaths per minute), with slight pauses or “holds” at the end of exhalation. Also, notice the heart rate (second line in red) is “flat” showing little variability in rate, which reflects increased sympathetic tone. The third line (also in blue) moves up and down and reflects the varying rate or speed of breath, despite the individual sitting still and at rest. Finally, the low score of the heart rate/respiration rate coherence (orange line at the bottom) , reflects poor synchronicity between the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. https://allthingsautonomic.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/img_2775.jpgIMG_2775Screen shot of a biofeedback session, showing changes in respiration, heart rate, and heart rate/respiration coherence. The first column, on the left, represents baseline breathing without pacing. Notice how the heart rate, in red, is ill defined when compared to the last column on the right (which depicts paced breathing at 6 breaths per minute). Also notice how the heart and respiration rate coherence (orange line at the bottom) is much lower than the coherence in the last column, where breathing is at 6 breaths per minute. 2020-11-11T21:22:35+00:00weekly0.6https://allthingsautonomic.comdaily1.02020-11-11T21:22:35+00:00