Breathing Spaces is a spatial concept based on a design method called ‘biofeedback art’. Biofeedback art is a new design discipline that combines health sciences, architecture, interior design and generative light/sound design in an overarching design methodology. This methodology is based on a feedback mechanism of three main components: body pulse, spatial feedback and mirroring effect.
BodyPulse ®
BodyPulse ® is an overarching concept that integrates three levels of physiological signals like body movement and balance, breathing variation & heart rate variability. BodyPulse is measured in a non-invasive way by ballistocardiographic technology embedded in sitting furniture. By measuring subtle changes in body pressure the physiological signals are extracted.
Spatial Feedback
The BodyPulse signals are being translated to spatial light and sound. This is done by several methods like for example translation to geometry, musical scales, rhythmic sequencing models and visual fractal light patterning. This in combination with interactive design makes it possible to develop different spatial feedback mechanisms. The interactive designs can function as a way to let the user reflect on their current state of breathing and to adapt the breathing to a altered state.
Mirroring Effect
The combination of body pulse and spatial feedback makes it possible to let the breathing space function as an internal mirror. The internal dynamics of the person get converted to an outer experience; the user turns into space. Because of this mirroring effect, a reflection method is created to make a person aware of its current physical and mental state. Users are guided to alter their breathing, train their focus and their emotional and thinking processes.