Emotional Wellness and Heart Rate Variability
The national cancer institute states that “people who have cancer may find the physical, emotional, and social effects of the disease to be stressful….people who are able to use effective coping strategies to deal with stress, such as relaxation and stress management techniques, have been shown to have lower levels of depression, anxiety, and symptoms related to the cancer and its treatment.” Studies have also shown that individuals with higher HRV and advanced coping mechanisms seem to have a better prognosis in cancer progression.
Heart rate variability is a biomarker of nervous system health and may play a role in prognostic outcomes in the setting of cancer risk and cancer care. It is measured and rehabilitated through modulation of cardiac function. This is a gentle and empowering approach to take help patients feel integrated between their body and mind, manage stress and support biochemical balance to optimize outcomes.