Nonlinear Heart Rate Variability analysis of a Compassionate Schools Research Initiative

MARTINEZ VIVOT, ROCIO; MATOS, MARCELA; ALBUQUERQUE, MARIA PAULA; MARATOS, FRANCES; GILBERT, PAUL; VIGO, DANIEL

Congreso; Cultivating Prosocial Development Across the Lifespan: Contexts, Relationships, and Contemplative Practices; 2020

Mind and Life Institute

While compassionate-based interventions have shown numerous benefits in diverse populations, our aim is to contribute to the validation of the efficacy of the Compassionate Schools Program (CSP) by addressing the role of the autonomic nervous system in the improvement of well-being indicators. Nonlinear HRV analysis was conducted in 153 Portuguese teachers enrolled in the CSP Trial (the data corresponds to the Portuguese Compassionate Schools Research Initiative). Preliminary results suggest significant differences between nonlinear HRV indexes (SampEn and alfa1) when comparing the intervention group versus the control group. These results hint at an increase in flexibility (adaptability) in the physiological functioning and ?complexity?, confirming the CSP may exert part of its effects by influencing autonomic activity. The importance of this work lies in the validation of the usefulness of this program as an effective psychological intervention to promote physiological well-being in educators that could reduce burnout, depression and other stress symptoms.