Calming Technologies (CTs) promote optimal physical, cognitive, and emotional states in their users by reducing various forms of stress and anxiety.
Physiologically calming technologies are those that aim to develop in the user a relaxed yet alert physiological disposition. Such technologies may augment or influence the perceptual, autonomic, muscular systems, or via other means.
Emotionally calming technologies are those that help users maintain a neutral or positive outlook or interpretation on one's life experience.
Cognitively calming technologies are those that promote the ability to focus on a desired task, clarity of thought, reduce multi-tasking, and improved creativity.
Examples of calming technologies are becoming more prevalent. Desktop, laptop, and mobile tools are increasingly being used to improve focus, reduce distractions, guide contemplative practices such as meditation, or influence users towards positive thoughts.
CalmingTechnology.com is the research blog for the Calming Technology research group at Stanford University. We draw from the fields of human-computer interaction, persuasion and influence, psychology and perception, and medicine and anatomy. Previously we referred to this field as "augmented relaxation" and similar names. An academic paper and literature review outlining a research agenda for CTs is forthcoming.
This blog does not contain information on the book or company I am working on, "Calming Technology" and "Calming Technology LLC", respectively. Please contact me for information about each. Neema [at symbol] Moraveji.org.
