Current research suggests short-term Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) interventions increase individuals' respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA). 

Increased RSA eliminates extra work for the heart making the body more efficient.

Physiological Effects of Short-term Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Interventions: Increased Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia (RSA)

Respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) is when a person's breathing syncs with their heart rate; so when they breathe in, the heart rate increases, and when they breathe out, the heart rate decreases.

University of Virginia, Charlottesville

Short-term Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) interventions have multiple physiological effects including the following:
- Increased Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia (RSA)
- Increased Parasympathetic Nervous System Activity

Physiological Effects of Short-term Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Interventions

Ditto, B., Eclache, M., & Goldman, N. (2006). Short-term autonomic and cardiovascular effects of mindfulness body scan meditation. Annals of Behavioral Medicine, 32(3), 227-234.

Short-term Autonomic and Cardiovascular Effects of Mindfulness Body Scan Meditation

Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia (RSA)

The parasympathetic nervous system is a division of the autonomic nervous system that is responsible for the body's "rest and digest" functions. Its activation is associated with normal functioning under relaxed conditions, conserving energy and overseeing routine operations like digestion.

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