Commentary: Heart rate variability and self-control–A meta-analysis

In relation to the paper “Heart rate variability and self-control: a meta-analysis,” we have recommendations that may be of importance when considering future research on HRV and self-control. The following commentary will cover three main points which consist of: (1) a systematic use of the terms “vagal/parasympathetic” instead of heart rate variability (HRV), as vagal tone is the real physiological process related to self-control (Vagal tone is a synonym of parasympathetic activity, given the vagus nerve is the main nerve of the parasympathetic nervous system); (2) a systematic investigation/acknowledgment of vagal tone at rest and its reactivity—further than resting HRV; (3) the strict selection of studies having self-control performance assessed concomitantly with vagal tone. Below we elaborate on these points, with specific recommendations for researchers.