HeartMath: a positive psychology paradigm for promoting psychophysiological and global coherence

Abstract

This article proposes HeartMath as a positive psychology paradigm for promoting psychophysiological and global coherence . It provides evidence for the value of psychophysiological and global coherence, with special reference to human functioning through synchronisation between positive emotions, cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, immune and other physiological systems . Various HeartMath tools and techniques are described and evidence for their effectiveness provided, drawing from several related South African studies . Psychophysiological and global coherence bear promise as fertile fields for future research and intervention of great potential to develop humanity and promote global health and wellbeing.

Keywords:

• HeartMath
• positive psychology
• paradigm
• physiological coherence
• global coherence

Acknowledgements

This work is based on research supported by the University of Zululand and the South African National Research Foundation (NRF). Any opinion, finding and conclusion or recommendation expressed in this material is that of the author(s) and the NRF does not accept any liability in regard thereto.

Figures are reproduced with permission of HeartMath Institute.

Profound thanks are expressed to Dr Rollin McCraty, Director of Research, HeartMath Institute for his generous contributions to this article. Finally special thanks to Alan Strydom, as well as David and Michelle Edwards for their insightful observations.