Concept Generation Experimenting 3d Development Prototyping
Initial question
How can technology help us become more aware of breathing especially in moments of stress?
BreaVR was developed as a group project following a workshop at PwC in Frankfurt, where we explored breathing techniques as a way to reduce everyday stress. We translated these insights into an interactive VR experience, combining relaxation practices with emerging technologies and a playful, gamified approach.
The installation consists of multiple virtual worlds, each based on a specific breathing technique. I designed one of these environments, focusing on how visuals, rhythm, and interaction guide the user’s breathing.
Challenges
1
How can VR support relaxation without overstimulating the user?
2
How can breathing become an interactive input?
3
How to balance gamification with relaxation and mindfulness into one coherent experience?
IDEATION & Testing
To make breathing measurable, we developed a custom controller using piezoelectric material, an elastic, rubber-like band worn around the chest that converts physical expansion into electrical signals. I was involved in developing this interface and integrating it into the system.
The VR experience begins in a menu environment where you can select one of three levels featuring different breathing techniques.
The breathing data is used in real time as input for the VR experience, built in Unreal Engine. I also created parts of the sound design, combining subtle breathing instructions with ambient music in sync with the breathing rhythm to support relaxation and immersion.
The project explores how internal bodily processes can become interactive inputs. It connects body, data, and digital space into a responsive system that supports well-being.
Questions I Asked During or After the Process
How can technology support mindfulness without becoming distracting?
What makes an interaction feel calming rather than stimulating?
How do sound and rhythm influence breathing behavior?
What I Would Continue Working On
Explore biofeedback integrations such as heart rate monitoring.
Conduct more user testing focused on emotional response and relaxation.
summary
Group project translating breathing techniques into a VR experience
Development of multiple interactive worlds based on different rhythms of breath
Custom chest controller using piezoelectric material as input interface
Real-time interaction built in Unreal Engine
Contribution in world design, controller development, and sound design
