Research
What we research.
Stability that arises because a system actively adjusts its set points to the situation — before a disturbance becomes a problem.
Core principle
The Allostasis principle
Classical notions of equilibrium assume that a system has a fixed set point to which it returns after every disturbance. Allostasis describes something else: stability that arises because a system actively adjusts its set points to the given situation — before a disturbance even becomes a problem. The price of this adaptation is strain; if it becomes chronic, it tips over into depletion. It is precisely this interplay of adaptation, strain and recovery that lies at the core of our research.
What we work on
State detection
We investigate which software-detectable signals reliably indicate focus, overload, flow and depletion — without additional wearables or invasive sensors. Only abstract behavioural patterns such as rhythm, pace and pauses are captured — never content. What someone writes, reads or says stays out of scope; only how someone behaves while doing so is considered.
State regulation
Detection alone is not enough. We research which software-based interventions — from guided breathing to design-based means — demonstrably help shift a state back towards stability.
Privacy as a design principle
State data is among the most sensitive data of all. Our research is therefore consistently local in orientation: processing happens on the device, not on a server.
Scope
What we are not
Our research is not intended for medical diagnosis or treatment. Allostatic Labs does not develop medical devices and makes no promises of cure. Our work is aimed at healthy users who want to better understand their own state — not at treating illnesses. Recognised states are observations, not verdicts — our software does not judge whether someone is working “well” or “badly”.