“The Airing” is a product concept for a biofeedback meditation ring. The ring promotes a state of coherence, which is the synchronization of Heart Rate Variability (HRV) and breath rate. The idea came from the merging of Ancient Tibetan Prayer Wheels and the "StressEraser" Device (see image below) introduced to me by Professor Steven Dean in the ITP DIY Health Course.

"The Airing” can be worn inactive as a normal meditation ring where the ring's bands can be spun to encourage calmness. If “activated,” either through a passive timer or by a button on the ring, sensors on the interior of the ring measure the user’s pulse and breath rate. The pulse sensor determines the user's Heart Rate Variability (HRV) and encourages a state of coherence by emitting subtle vibrations that cue the user when to inhale and exhale. The ring can be set activate each day for varying durations at a specific time, multiple times, or random intervals.

The ultimate goal of "The Airing" is to reduce tension during normal daily life. It does this by using sensory feedback to encourage an optimal breath rate. In terms of feedback, small vibrations are the default, but light, scent, sound and texture could also be incorporated. Regardless, the feedback is meant to be subtle and not draw any unwanted attention to the user. The ideal ring naturally embeds itself into the wearer’s daily life.

More extensive documentation of this project and the DIY Health classwork can be found HERE.