A method and apparatus for varying a parameter in an implantable medical device that includes a plurality of electrodes stimulating heart tissue and sensing cardiac signals, a timing and control device controlling the stimulation of heart tissue by the plurality of electrodes and measuring intervals between the sensed cardiac signals, a storage device storing the measured intervals, and a microprocessor. The microprocessor determines heart rate variability in response to the stored intervals, compares the determined heart rate variability to a predetermined target rate profile, adjusts the parameter from a first setting to a second setting different from the first setting in response to the comparing of the determined heart rate variability and the predetermined target rate profile, and adjusts the parameter from the second setting to a termination setting in response to a termination event or expiration of a first predetermined time period.