StarTalk Podcast: Biohacking with Leah Lagos, PhD

Mind-Body Link

Neil deGrasse Tyson explores the intricate relationship between psychology and physiology with Dr. Leah Lagos, a performance psychologist. She explains how heart rate variability (HRV) biofeedback can enhance performance by controlling stress responses, a technique she has applied to athletes and business professionals alike 1 2. This method, rooted in the concept of resonance frequency, allows individuals to manage their physiological reactions to stress, thereby improving decision-making and performance 3.

Sometimes someone's gift can also be their danger. And you have to be aware of what those may be.

--- Dr. Leah Lagos

Dr. Lagos's work demonstrates that mastering the mind-body connection is not just for athletes but is applicable to anyone seeking to optimize their performance 1.

   

Empathy & Bias

The discussion shifts to how HRV biofeedback can influence empathy and bias, offering a broader application beyond performance enhancement. Dr. Leah Lagos explains that HRV training can serve as a buffer against the physiological impacts of discrimination, such as increased blood pressure and heart rate 4. This training not only helps individuals manage their stress responses but also enhances their ability to control inner biases and increase empathy towards others 4.

HRV biofeedback helps people of all walks of life have greater control over their inner bias and also increases their empathy towards the other person.

--- Dr. Leah Lagos

This approach highlights the potential of HRV biofeedback in fostering more empathetic and less biased interactions in various aspects of life.