Expressive stress relievers

Abstract

In this paper we describe three tangible interfaces that recognize stress by how they are manipulated and provide tactile feedback to support stress reduction. They were developed following a research through design methodology, in an iterative process of observing behavior, building prototypes, and evaluating them in their context. The three interactive prototypes named Squeeze-it, Marmoro, and Wigo measure squeezing, and two types of rolling behavior respectively. Goal of this project was to evaluate in a quick and informal way what types of relaxing feedback are best suited for different behavioral expressions of stress.

Breathing Friend: Tackling Stress Through Portable Tangible Breathing Artifact

“…The stresscoping method is based on detection of stress by measuring irrelevant gesture activity -wiggling and making the movement increasingly more difficult. In [3], they present three devices (including Wigo) that show various kinds of haptic feedback to support stress reduction. The other two methods employed following activities: rolling over acrylic marbles (Marmoro) and squeezing (Squeeze-it).…”

“…Analysis of the related work indicates that tackling stress by stimulating mindful breathing can be successful [4,1,11]. Other research [15,2,3] shows that tactile stimulation of hands can be used for stimulating mindful breathing.…”