Relaxushion: Controlling the Rhythm of Breathing for Relaxation by Overwriting Somatic Sensation

In this study, we propose the method to control the rhythm of breathing for relaxation by overwriting somatic sensation. Breathing way has an essential role in controlling the state of mind and body. Thus, lots of studies tried to instruct the breathing rhythm using lights, sounds, vibrations, and so on. However, these approaches require prior training to adjust a user's breathing rhythm to the system. To improve the effectiveness of controlling the breathing rhythm, we focus on the approach of overwriting somatic sensation. We hypothesized that we could modify the breathing rhythm if users get a device's motion confused with their breathing motion. Thus, we constructed the cushion type device "Relaxushion" which presents the breathing motion. When we embrace this breathing cushion, we feel like putting our hands on our stomachs. A brief user study shows our method can control the rhythm of breathing without prior training and consciousness to the device.