HRV Book

This book is a product of years of expertise and passion regarding Performance Psychology.

Pre-order your book now to recieve it on time for the release date on May 22nd.

(apl.) Prof. Laborde

Congratulations to Sylvain Laborde on being awarded his associate professorship today at the German Sport University Cologne! After 18 years in Cologne, he's reached this major milestone — and we can't wait to see what's next! The whole HRV LAB team is proud of you Sylvain, well deserved!

BR Film

Part 2 will be out on February 11th. Both parts are available in the ARD-Mediathek and on YouTube.

Markus Raab's Keynote

We attended the 16th ISSP World Congress of Sport Psychology in Hong Kong (December 8-12) and are greatful for the impressive time there!
 Markus Raab, Head of the Performance Psychology department held a keynote, entitled 'The power of simplicity – How to choose and act'. He shared insights into his work, as well as into our research at HRVLABorde.

Breathing Techniques Blog

Breathing is more than just calming down.
In 2026, the GSU Breathing Techniques workshop with Sylvain Laborde will explore how evidence-based breathwork can do much more than relax: from supporting stress regulation and performance to influencing the autonomic nervous system and vagus nerve activity.
There's also an interview available, where Laborde explains the science behind slow-paced breathing and why breath is a powerful, trainable tool for sport, therapy and everyday life.

Impulse Interview

Sylvain Laborde was featured in "impulse", one of Germany's leading magazines for entrepreneurship, mindset, and personal growth.
He shared his Vagus Nerve Workout and how simple daily practices can support your nervous system.
His advice: 
• 15 minutes of breathing exercises before sleep
• Submerging your face in cold water
• Singing (yes, really)

Spiegel Article

The article "Work-out for the Vagus: How to Train Your Anti-Stress Nerve" was published in February 2025 by Spiegel Magazin 
It explains how the vagus nerve — the tenth cranial nerve — links our thoughts and emotions to our organs, and how strengthening the vagus nerve can protect us from emotional outbursts and heart disease. In the article Sylvain Laborde shows how anyone can actively train this powerful anti-stress nerve. 

ARTE Documentary

We are proud to have been part of this project, and you can now watch it online!