Di\v{s}imo: Anchoring Our Breath

TL;DR

Dišimo is a multimodal ambient device that monitors stress via heart rate variability and encourages relaxation through guided breathing, fostering shared mindfulness among users.

Contribution

It introduces a novel ambient display system that promotes stress awareness and shared relaxation using multimodal feedback and social connectivity.

Findings

Effective in raising stress awareness

Facilitates shared relaxation sessions

Encourages mindful breathing practices

Abstract

We present a system that raises awareness about users' inner state. Di\v{s}imo is a multimodal ambient display that provides feedback about one's stress level, which is assessed through heart rate monitoring. Upon detecting a low heart rate variability for a prolonged period of time, Di\v{s}imo plays an audio track, setting the pace of a regular and deep breathing. Users can then choose to take a moment to focus on their breath. By doing so, they will activate the Di\v{s}imo devices belonging to their close ones, who can then join for a shared relaxation session.