Making well-being training in schools more engaging and tangible.
Dianne Vella-Brodrick,Professor (PhD), University of Melbourne

Individuals can find it difficult to apply well-being interventions to their everyday life. The Bio-Dash incorporates the latest technological tools that measure real time information on physiological responses to relaxation techniques such as on respiration and brain activity, while engaging users in challenging and fun tasks. Individuals are taught evidence-based strategies such as deep breathing, mental imagery, savouring and mindfulness. This information can help individuals to determine what methods work best for them. In the moment biofeedback results can guide individuals with their practice techniques, while the gamification features which include scores, badges and rewards, help to keep individuals engaged in the practice. This well-being program has been co-designed and trialed with secondary school boys who have reported feeling significantly more relaxed and focused and less anxious after completing the program. Workshop participants will learn the science behind each method and explore some techniques using the biofeedback and gamification features.