On Human Autonomic Nervous Activity Related to Behavior, Daily and Regional Changes Based on Big Data Measurement via Smartphone

Abstract

This research uses a large amount of autonomic nervous system data (approximately 100,000 entries) to investigate the relationship between human autonomic nervous activity and behaviors, daily and regional changes. Data were measured via a heart rate variability analysis system that utilizes the camera of smartphones. This system was developed by the authors during previous research. The relations between autonomic nervous system and behaviors, total power and sympathetic nervous activity were found to rise after waking, while during leisure time, the total power rises and sympathetic nervous activity is inhibited. Concerning the relationship between autonomic nervous system and day of the week, it was found that total power decreases from the middle through the latter part of the week (namely, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday), while it rises on Saturday, while the sympathetic nervous activity is suppressed on Saturday. Regarding the relationship between autonomic nervous system and region, it was found that total power is lower in the Kanto region of Japan than in others. This study also shows statistical proof (using a large amount of measurement data) to ideas held by the public for years. Thus, the data can be considered meaningful to the society, and the authors hope that it helps to improve work-life balance.