HeartMath®
HeartMath for Trauma-Informed Healing
What is HeartMath?
HeartMath® is a science-based modality that strengthens nervous system regulation & emotional resilience through heart coherence — a measurable physiological state where heart, brain, nervous system, and breathing work in harmony.
Within my Somatic Stacking™ approach, HeartMath® can be used:
As a foundational regulation tool
To support session pacing and integration
As a between-session practice
This ensures healing happens safely and sustainably, tailored to your nervous system needs.
Why Heart Coherence Matters
Stress and trauma often produce disordered heart rhythms and nervous system dysregulation. HeartMath® research shows that cultivating coherence brings the heart, brain, and autonomic nervous system into a connected, orderly state, which correlates with:
Calmer emotions
Clearer thinking
Better stress response
Unlike simple relaxation, coherence synchronizes your physiology, helping your body and mind function more efficiently and resiliently.
A Gentle Foundation for Trauma-Informed Regulation
Heart coherence is a practical, bottom-up approach supporting your nervous system before and alongside deeper work — including clinical EFT, somatic parts work, Safe & Sound Protocol, or other modalities within your existing Somatic Stack™.
It’s not about “thinking positive” or forcing calm; it’s about shifting physiology, and about widening the window for regulation in a safe, accessible way.
This 3-minute introductory video by Dr. McCraty— Director of Research at HeartMath Institute —offers an easy overview of the science behind HeartMath®:
HeartMath Biofeedback Technology
HeartMath® offers gentle biofeedback tools that show your nervous system’s responses visually and in real time.
The Inner Balance™ sensor and app measure heart rhythm patterns and heart rate variability (HRV) — key indicators of nervous system regulation and flexibility.
Benefits of biofeedback for trauma survivors:
Learn what actually supports regulation for your nervous system
Recognize early signs of stress or dysregulation
Build confidence through visible progress
Practice self-regulation independently with real-time feedback
Important: The goal isn’t to perform or score highly. The feedback simply helps your system learn what coherence feels like, gently and safely, over time.
How I Use HeartMath in Sessions
I personally use HeartMath® technology as a wellness tool and integrate it into sessions when supportive for my client. Within Somatic Stacking™, biofeedback may be used:
As a foundation for nervous system regulation
To support session pacing and integration
As a between-session resource
To help clients externalize regulation instead of self-judging
The technology is always optional — many clients benefit from HeartMath® practices without a device.
A Supportive Option, Not a Requirement
HeartMath® technology is not a treatment, nor is it required for healing. It is a supportive tool that can be grounding, motivating, and empowering — especially for rebuilding internal safety.
As a HeartMath® affiliate, I can share access to special discounts for clients who wish to explore the technology.
If you’re curious whether biofeedback could help — alone or integrated into your Somatic Stack™ — feel free to bring it up in session or send me a message. We can explore it together, safely and at your pace.
“HeartMath helps my body ground at the beginning of our sessions, so I can stay more present without pushing or shutting down as we go deeper. Seeing my nervous system respond in real time feels reassuring and helps me trust what’s happening in my body.”
—Olivera F, Hamburg, Germany
