“Additionally, recent neurocardiology studies have revealed that the heart is capable of secreting feel-good chemicals like dopamine, oxytocin, and norepinephrine, all of which help to counteract feelings of depression. … the notion that the heart can produce these neurochemicals is exciting on many levels. This suggests that strengthening the heart through HRV-strengthening practices could possibly yield mild antidepressive effects.”
- Leah Lagos, Psy.D., Heart Breath Mind
This is pretty amazing: By strengthening the heart, we may improve its ability to release feel-good chemicals like dopamine and oxytocin. It’s one more reason to practice slow breathing and might be one more reason slow breathing is so helpful for mental health.