Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 8, 2025

Investigation into Deep Breathing through Measurement of Ventilatory Parameters and Observation of Breathing Patterns
Published on: September 16, 2019
A comparison design study of feedback modalities to support deep breathing whilst performing work tasks
Karen Anne Cochrane1, Lian Loke1, Naseem Ahmadpour1
1University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
Sound feedback was most effective for helping people perform deep breathing exercises at work, outperforming vibration and light. This research offers design recommendations for interactive systems to support workplace well-being.
Area of Science:
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Behavioral Science
- Wearable Technology
Background:
- Deep breathing exercises reduce stress, and computing technologies can support these practices.
- Existing research often uses single sensory feedback modalities for breathing exercises.
- Wearable and ambient computing offer potential for enhancing breathing exercises.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness of different sensory feedback modalities (light, vibration, sound) for deep breathing exercises at work.
- To understand user experience and performance with various feedback types during work tasks.
Main Methods:
- Developed three interactive prototypes with distinct feedback modalities: light, vibration, and sound.
- Evaluated prototypes with 19 participants performing work tasks in a naturalistic setting.
- Conducted semi-structured interviews to gather qualitative data on user experience.
Main Results:
- Sound feedback was most successful for the majority of participants, followed by vibration and then light.
- Identified three user interaction patterns: ignoring feedback, being overwhelmed by it, or successfully using it.
- Developed the Extended Cycle of Awareness tool to analyze user interaction patterns with feedback systems.
Conclusions:
- Sound feedback is a promising modality for supporting deep breathing at work.
- Design recommendations include personalization, cyclical attention/awareness design, and fostering reflective practice.
- Interactive systems can be effectively designed to promote mindfulness and stress reduction in the workplace.
More Related Videos
10:45A Community-based Stress Management Program: Using Wearable Devices to Assess Whole Body Physiological Responses in Non-laboratory Settings
Published on: January 22, 2018
06:26Author Spotlight: Exploring Breathing Techniques and Digital Solutions for Enhancing Running Performance
Published on: September 27, 2024
Related Concept Videos
Assessment of Ventilation II: Respiratory Depth and Rhythm
Respiratory depth measures the volume of air inhaled or exhaled during a breath. It can vary from shallow to deep and typically remains consistent when a person is at rest or asleep. Occasionally, individuals will automatically inhale deeply, known as sighing, which inflates the lungs with more air than normal breathing.
To assess respiratory depth, observe the degree of chest excursion or movement:
Mechanism of Breathing III: The Accessory Muscles
The respiratory system is a complex network that relies on primary respiratory muscles like the diaphragm, but also involves accessory muscles to enhance lung expansion and airflow during both inhalation and exhalation.
Enhancing Inhalation with Accessory Muscles:
Accessory muscles such as the sternocleidomastoid, scalene, intercostal, and abdominal muscles are crucial when additional respiratory effort is required, such as during deep...
Physiological Control of Respiration
Breathing, a seemingly passive process, is regulated by the respiratory center in the brainstem. This center coordinates the involuntary control of respirations, which means it occurs without conscious effort, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted pattern.
Regulation of Ventilation
The body maintains ventilation by monitoring levels of carbon dioxide (CO2), oxygen (O2), and hydrogen ion concentration (pH) in the arterial blood. Among these factors, the level of CO2 plays a crucial...
Breathing
Assessment of Respiration
Subjective Assessment: Nurses interview the patient to gather information directly during the subjective assessment. It includes questions about the individual's medical history, medications, and symptoms, focusing on past respiratory conditions like...
Alterations in Respiration II
In Biot's breathing, the respiratory rate and depth are irregular, alternating between periods of deep gasping and apnea. Common causes...