Do you ever feel like your head and heart aren’t on the same page? Your thoughts tell you one thing, but your feelings tell you another. On the other hand, you probably also know what it feels like to be entirely at peace in your heart, mind, and state of “flow” or “harmony.” This tension between the heart and the brain is an authentic and significant aspect of who we are. Science is now confirming that the brain and the heart each have a type of “intelligence” and that we can create this state of harmony with practice.
This harmony is called “coherence.” When your thoughts, emotions, and intentions are unified, you will experience tremendous unity and peace with yourself and a deeper connection to those around you. Research shows that when we shift into a coherent state, the heart and brain operate synergistically, like two systems that mesh into one. To better understand and answer your question, “What is a brain and heart coherence?” Reach out to our team at Alleviant Little Rock at 501.904.4762. We offer you comprehensive psychiatry to address the root cause of your imbalance.
What Is Coherence?
“What is a brain and heart coherence?” Coherence is when your brain works with your heart and body. It is a state of unity between your mind, body, and spirit. This state of harmony allows you to be more present and aware. When you are in a state of coherence, your body can heal itself and function at its optimal level. There are many benefits to being in a state of coherence, including:
- Increased creativity
- Improved decision-making
- Greater clarity of thought
- Improved emotional stability
- Increased physical energy
- Reduced stress levels
- Improved sleep quality
Brain and heart coherence can be defined as a state in which the brain and heart work together efficiently. This occurs when the heart’s electrical activity syncs with the brainwaves.
A Heart and Brain Coherence
It is first necessary to understand the autonomic nervous system (ANS) to understand brain and heart coherence. The ANS controls all the body’s automatic functions, like heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion. The ANS has two main divisions: the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS).
The SNS is responsible for the “fight-or-flight” response. This response is the body’s natural reaction to stress. When the SNS is activated, the heart rate and blood pressure increase, and the digestive system slow down. The PNS is responsible for the “rest-and-digest” response. This response is the body’s natural reaction to relaxation.
When the PNS is activated, the heart rate and blood pressure decrease, and the digestive system speed up. The SNS and PNS work together harmoniously in a state of brain and heart coherence. The heart rate variability (HRV) increases, and the heart rate and blood pressure become more regulated. Many different techniques can be used to increase brain and heart coherence. Some of these include:
- Deep breathing
- Meditation
- Yoga
- Visualization
- Progressive muscle relaxation
If you would like to learn more about how to increase brain and heart coherence, reach out to our team at Alleviant Little Rock. We offer comprehensive psychiatry services to help you achieve balance in your life.
The Heart and Mind
Our hearts contain neurites, similar to neurons in the brain, which carry out cognitive functions and communicate with other parts of the nervous system. Our hearts also produce an electromagnetic field that reaches between three-four feet around our bodies and affects those around us. Research demonstrates that different emotional states make different heart patterns, influencing our electromagnetic field. These patterns have distinct effects on cognitive and emotional functions.
Our brains lie on the other side of our hearts. The “neocortex” is the part of the brain that controls cognitive functioning and our ability to learn. It is the seat of our consciousness and the distinguishing factor that separates us from animals. The frontal lobe of the neocortex is the CEO of the brain. It’s where we make decisions. It is responsible for learning, attention, speculation, judgment, behavior control, and restraining emotions.
The connection between the heart and mind is a two-way street. The heart sends more information to the brain than the brain sends to the heart. The heart’s electromagnetic field also affects the limbic system, which is responsible for emotions. This is why we feel emotions in our hearts as well as our minds. When the mind and heart are out of balance, it leads to stress, anxiety, and depression. But when the mind and heart are balanced, it increases clarity, focus, and peace.
Learn More About the Heart and Mind at Alleviant Little Rock
Having the answers to “What is a brain and heart coherence?” can bring some clarity to your life. If you would like to explore this topic further and receive some professional guidance, please reach out to Alleviant Little Rock. We offer various services to help you understand and achieve brain and heart coherence. We can get you access to comprehensive psychiatry and complete healing. Call our team at 501.904.4762.
