Rethinking Breath in VR: A Performative Approach to Enhance User Flow with Bio-sensing Wearable Interfaces

Abstract

Asignificant number of Virtual Reality (VR) applications focus on mindfulness, using biosensor technologies (e.g., ECG) to provide real-time feedback on users’ physiological states. However, the measurement of data for the human body is complex. Commercial devices often lack precision, while medical-grade sensors require controlled environments, which can lead to disruptions and break immersion, affecting the flow of VR experiences. Thus, complicating the evaluation of mindfulness. Pinch To Awaken XR is a VR art game that utilizes wearable interfaces to measure breathing from a holistic perspective. Showcased as an Extended Reality (XR) performance, it uses first-person research methods by embodying both the researcher and performer, placing the body as the central source of inquiry. This case study reveals that integrating a performative approach can enhance the flow and engagement in mindfulness VR experiences, while also offering a novel approach for evaluating biosensing interfaces in HCI user studies, using a body-centered design