Weddington Wellness offers HeartMath biofeedback program to teach a patient how to unlock the natural relaxation response, and even learn how to change pain perception or the emotional outcome.
Weddington Wellness offers HeartMath biofeedback program to teach a patient how to unlock the natural relaxation response, and even learn how to change pain perception or the emotional outcome. This amazing connection helps to explain the success of heart rate variability using biofeedback training for managing chronic stress, diminishing pain, and to give our patients the tools they need to effectively monitor life hopefully without the need for medications.
HeartMath is a trademarked software program that detects the baseline heart rate when a delicate earlobe piece is applied and connected to the software. The heart rate and pulse are visibly seen on the computer screen and each session recorded to observe progress. Dr. Lisa Merritt is a certified HeartMath practitioner for our center. The doctor and technician create a customized plan for approximately 6 weeks to bring self-awareness and self-monitoring. During the weekly sessions, the heart rate is measured while unique games are played that “come to life” as the heart rate and breathing pattern is stabilized. At home, exercises are taught and combined with guided affirmation relaxation tools. Many patients combine outside counseling sessions with their therapists for the greatest success.
The heart is something that is affected by emotions, grief, and love. The heart is more than just an organ that pumps blood through the body, but also an organ that has neurons to send messages to the brain. When you experience emotions of stress, anxiety, anger, and frustration, this causes the heart to beat in a more chaotic rhythm and pattern which in turn decreases its productivity and puts more physical demand on the body, which causes the heart to have to work harder.
The changing heart rhythms affect not only the heart but also the brain’s ability to process information, including decision-making, problem-solving and creativity. They also directly affect how we feel. Thus, the study of heart rate variability is a powerful, objective and noninvasive tool to explore the dynamic interactions between physiological, mental, emotional and behavioral processes.