A Smartphone Application Using Vibro-Acoustic Technology for Stress Management

Abstract We developed an easy-to-use smartphone-based stress care system that employs simultaneous vibratory sensations and synchronized music. In this study, we evaluated the usefulness of this technology and discussed its potential for societal implementation. This prospective study was conducted in three phases in Tokyo. Phase 1 tested the application’s efficacy in stress management following one month of use using subjective surveys assessing depression, anxiety, stress, insomnia, mood, and fatigue. Phase 2 assessed the effect of one month of application on internal stress markers (salivary cortisol, IgA, and oxytocin levels). Phase 3 assessed the application’s perceived efficacy and potential for social integration using a questionnaire survey administered after one week of use. Significant improvements were observed in all subjective stress markers and salivary cortisol levels one month after application. Sixty-seven percent of the participants reported perceiving their therapy as effective in relaxing both their body and mind, while 46% felt that it contributed to improved sleep after one week of application use. Additionally, 73% of participants expressed a positive intention to continue with therapy. The smartphone-based stress care application offers an individualized experience through both tactile and auditory stimulation, demonstrating its potential for widespread societal implementation of stress management.