Discover a playful path to wellness with O.ZEN, Ubisoft's innovative iPhone and iPad game that promotes health and relaxation through cardiac coherence. No intense battles here—just guided breathing to calm your mind and boost morale, even for self-proclaimed bad losers like me.
Pioneered in France by Dr. David Servan-Schreiber, cardiac coherence involves deep, rhythmic breathing—typically 5 seconds in, 5 seconds out—for several minutes. O.ZEN pairs this with engaging games and a finger pulse sensor to make it your daily "rested heart" practice. Sessions are quick: just a few minutes, or even 1-minute boosts.
Florence Servan-Schreiber explains: "Our emotions fuel excitement we can't always control. Syncing heart and breath restores balance and refocuses us. It's one of the few proven ways to master emotions. O.ZEN brilliantly teaches this technique through play." The happiness expert (author of 3 Kifs par Jour and Power Potato) and cardiac coherence specialist shares more insights below.
More on cardiac coherence by Florence Servan-Schreiber
It helps regain emotional control, increase vitality, relax, and build confidence—enhancing overall well-being. Targeted sessions like "Prepare for a stressful event" or "Train for an intellectual challenge" tackle specific needs. Others address overwork, insomnia, or phobias, while daily boosters cover starting your day right, gaining perspective, or simply having fun. The iPad version adds immersive games.
"O.ZEN is like a first-aid kit for anyone needing a breather," say creators Sébastien Kochman (Ubisoft Creative Director) and Frédéric Kochman (child psychiatrist specializing in cardiac coherence).
Note: iPad offers full features (exercises + games); iPhone focuses on instant breathing. Start by creating an avatar and answering questions for a personalized profile—over 600 introspection prompts across 70 levels and 14 programs. Dr. K guides you through tailored games and exercises.
In breathing sessions, keep a bubble on the blue curve by breathing steadily and relaxing.
For daily well-being, aim for 3-8 minute sessions. Use occasionally for stress spikes.
On iPad, absolutely. As a tester with a tablet, I played for a week. Despite my competitive streak, I relaxed, let go of scores, and carved out "me time" daily. O.ZEN became an addictive ritual: soothing graphics, Air's soundscape—all senses unwind with your breath. Even 1 minute calms noticeably. Verdict: YES!
On iPhone alone, it may feel pricey unless stress is severe—a budget iPhone version would help.
O.ZEN, available on iOS
www.experience-ozen.com
Recommended retail price: €99.99.