Prana is the first wearable that tracks breath and posture

Prana

Prana is a new kind of wearable device, one that monitors breath and posture. It is the first such [wearable] product to detect diaphragmatic breathing, breath patterns, and simultaneously evaluate posture; and can work both as a passive tracker and active training system. This in turn allows users to learn how they breathe and sit, and then to train breath and posture for a variety of medically backed health benefits.

Users can learn how they breathe and sit, and then train breath and posture for a variety of medically backed health benefits.“It’s been known for thousands of years that good posture facilitates good breathing, so it made sense to us to track both” said Dr. Paul Abramson, M.D., chief science officer of Prana. “We breathe differently in slumped versus upright postures, with significant improvements in forced expiratory volume while upright. The movement of the diaphragm is less restricted with good posture. Good breath and posture can provide many benefits, including reduced stress and less back pain.”

The device is worn near the waist; it’s fastened with a clip or magnetic clasp and communicates with most smartphones via Bluetooth. The built-in battery provides up to 7 days of use.

Prana’s companion app — available for iOS and Android smartphones — offers an extensive library of breathing exercises and techniques from traditions all around the world, including Yoga Pranayama, Tai Chi, and Buteyko, organized by time of day or intended effect, such as Wake Up or De-Stress. Additionally, the application also integrates a gaming element to encourage longer term engagement compared to most passive trackers.

Prana will be shipping in January 2015 at a retail price of $149.99.