Introspectibles: Tangible Interaction to Foster Introspection

TL;DR

This paper introduces three interactive systems using tangible interaction and augmented reality to support introspection and mindfulness, including physiological avatar displays and an augmented sandbox for well-being activities.

Contribution

It presents novel interactive systems combining tangible and augmented reality technologies to foster psychological introspection and mindfulness.

Findings

Physiological avatars effectively display users' inner states.

Augmented sandbox promotes mindfulness activities.

New integration of tangible and augmented reality for well-being.

Abstract

Digital devices are now ubiquitous and have the potential to be used to support positive changes in human lives and promote psychological well-being. This paper presents three interactive systems that we created focusing on introspection activities, leveraging tangible interaction and spatial augmented reality. More specifically, we describe anthropomorphic augmented avatars that display the users' inner states using physiological sensors. We also present a first prototype of an augmented sandbox specifically dedicated to promoting mindfulness activities.