Heart rate variability (HRV) refers to the variation in time intervals between consecutive heartbeats. It is a measure of how much the time between heartbeats fluctuates. High HRV indicates a healthy heart that can adapt to stress, while low HRV may suggest health issues or stress.
HRV is important for health because it reflects the body's ability to respond to stress and recover from it. A higher HRV is often linked to good health and resilience, while a lower HRV can be associated with stress, fatigue, and health problems. Monitoring HRV can give insights into overall wellness and emotional well-being.
The basic function of HRV in the body is tied to the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary functions like heart rate, breathing, and digestion. The two branches of this system, the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest), work together to regulate heart rate. A well-functioning autonomic nervous system typically shows greater variability in heart rate.
Understanding HRV can help individuals and healthcare professionals assess stress levels and recovery status. It is a useful tool for tracking how the body responds to different situations and can be an indicator of overall health over time.