Into The Sun – A Body Worn Device for Natural Light Therapy

We present a work-in-progress prototype to support the treatment of reoccurring, seasonal depressions using a set of tangible proxy-objects. The system provides reminders that help users to adapt health promoting behavior. Based on findings from the field of chronobiology which indicate a relation between ambient light exposure and an individual’s mood, three devices are proposed. By increasing the user’s awareness for their individual exposure to natural light, our system could provide the basis for a positive behavioral change. An evaluation of the effectiveness and reception of the system is subject of ongoing work. The fully functional prototypes presented in the following serve as a tool for further studies to reassess our initial assumptions, aimed at developing a means for drug-free treatment of seasonal depressions, as well as to find and support further positive side effects.