Owl keeps you on track of a healthy bedtime routine by gently reminding you as you get ready for bed. Once you’re in bed, two guided exercises calm your mind and body, allowing you to fall asleep faster, and set you up for a good night’s rest.
Problem Space
Sleep plays an important role in our everyday lives. An average person sleeps for about 1/3 of their lives. However, our minds can be full of thoughts at night, making falling asleep difficult and affecting the quality of our rest. Troubled slumber is mostly caused by stress, lack of a consistent sleep routine, and the usage of screens as the last activity before sleep.
Calm Bedtime Alarm
Owl lets the user know when it’s time to get ready for bed. During the initial setup, the user is asked to enter in their desired bedtime. Owl will notify the user 15 minutes before their set time so they can start their pre-sleep routine. Having a consistent bed time every night conditions the mind to feel tired. Once a consistent routine is established, the body’s biological clock would learn the patterns and the mind would in turn start getting ready for sleep.
Pattern Tracing Activity
Owl guides the user to run their finger along the face of the object, following the path of the warm, gentle glow. Repetitive motions relax the body and rid the mind of anxious thoughts. Concentrating on “something but nothing” is a central pillar in meditation, so as we relax, we begin to unwind.
4-7-8 Breathing Exercise
Owl’s breathing exercise helps to physically relax your body by increasing the amount of oxygen in your blood stream, slowing your heart rate, and releasing more carbon dioxide from the lungs. Users follow the soothing glow as they inhale for a 4 second count. Next, holding the breath for a 7 second count as indicated by a still light. Lastly, letting go in an 8 second count as the glow fades.
