On the conscious control of the human heart

J Integr Neurosci. 2012 Jun;11(2):213-23. doi: 10.1142/S0219635212500161.

Abstract

This study describes methods of volitional management of heart rhythms and proves that it is possible by means of management of its operations, subject to arbitrary control, which also has a strong functional connection to the center of the heart rhythm formation in the brain. Experiments demonstrate that it is possible for arbitrary changes in the heart rhythm to be made through conscious control of the breathing rhythm, and even a short-term cardiac arrest by means of contracting abdominal muscles. We postulate that the management of human heart rhythm is indirectly regulated through arbitrary controlled operations. The present article describes and analyzes ways that enable a human to consciously and purposefully manage the frequency of heart contractions. Common principles of arbitrary management of the heart rhythm in humans are uncovered through analysis.

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Muscles / innervation
  • Age Factors
  • Biofeedback, Psychology*
  • Brain / physiology*
  • Consciousness / physiology*
  • Electrocardiography
  • Functional Laterality
  • Heart / physiology*
  • Heart Rate / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Myocardial Contraction / physiology
  • Neural Pathways / physiology
  • Periodicity
  • Vagus Nerve / physiology