And one of their metrics that may be new to you is your heart rate variability, or HRV.
So, what exactly is your HRV, and what does it tell you about your health?
What is heart rate variability?
HRV is amethod for assessing changes in the cardiac cycle1.
The ANS comprises the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) responses.
What affects your HRV?
Stress levels
When youre feeling stressed, your heart rate variability changes.
In addition, HRV may also detect mental conditions such as depression.
A 2018 study revealed thatANSD indexed by HRV6is often connected to indicators of depression.
How certain habits affect you
Knowing your HRV can help you understand your health status.
Youll be more aware of whether certain lifestyle habits improve or worsen your heart health.
In addition, monitoring your HRV can motivate you to adopt healthier lifestyle habits.
Good emotional well-being involveshandling stressful situations and adjusting to new changes7.
Get enough sleep: Ensure you catch enough Zzzs for your HRV.
A 2020 study suggestedpoor sleep quality can affect your HRV8, heart rate, and blood pressure.
