01 May Available

Jeanne Denney of The Institute of Transpersonal Psychology in Palo Alto conducted a fascinating study. Intrigued by the process of dying and how individuals can be supported through it, she investigated the impact of compassionate presence on the emotional, mental, and physical states of terminally ill patients in comatose and non-communicative conditions. She also examined its effect on caregivers and others in attendance.

Denney utilised software designed to measure heart rate variability (HRV), a metric associated with emotional well-being and discomfort. The degree of coherence in HRV is referred to as heart coherence. This program visually demonstrated the role of the heart in energetic communication. Denney hypothesised that in non-communicative states, much of the non-verbal exchange—such as feelings of love and compassion—between patients and caregivers or loved ones is mediated through the heart’s energetic field.

The patients were found to be extraordinarily sensitive to the presence of others. Their heart rhythms displayed distinct patterns that correlated with the heart rhythms, actions, and emotional states of those nearby. In 23 out of 24 cases, Denney observed evidence of simultaneous changes in the heart rhythms of the patient and those present. Even in patients with severe brain injuries, a close, loving connection demonstrated a profound effect on the patient’s heart rhythm. This was particularly evident in one case, where a patient’s heart coherence was measured to be nine times higher when her husband was present compared to when others were with her. Similarly, a strong bond between a hospice volunteer and a patient became apparent in the patient’s HRV readings whenever that specific volunteer was nearby—even though the volunteer only knew the patient in a comatose state.

The findings have broader implications beyond end-of-life care. Increasingly, evidence underscores the essential role and profound impact of the compassionate heart. Denney observed that, alongside compassionate presence, practices such as loving touch, prayer, and meditation also influence heart coherence. These are all established methods for both experiencing and embodying compassion—not only for oneself but simultaneously for others and the spaces around us. Those who remain present with what arises and embrace it create room for a richer experience of life. Nothing more is required than to consciously experience and allow things to simply be.