Helicor's StressEraser is designed to help users time their breathing in order to relax and relieve physical and mental stress.  This device monitors breathing by measuring minute changes in the user's heart rate.  The changes are instantly displayed on the LCD monitor, which enables the user to make adjustments in real time.  It is much more sensitive than the normal home-use pulse monitor. 

Built into the clip at the corner of the StressEraser is a small infrared sensor.  The sensor can very accurately measure the amount of blood moving through the fingertip and convert that reading to a signal.

We found we were most comfortable using our left index finger.  We have not verified whether it will work with toes, but we see no reason why it would not :-)

The StressEraser is about the size and thickness of a deck of playing cards.  The power button is on the right side.  There is also a speaker in the back.  Some may prefer to listen to audio cues for when to breathe rather than looking at the display.  We will give both methods a try.

The unit is powered by two AAA batteries and should last for about a month...maybe less if the backlighting is used often.  In any case, this is more than acceptable considering the iPod's battery lasts about a day and you can't replace them yourselves.

We'll use this device for the next few months and see if we can reduce the stress around the RainyDayMagazine office.  In the mean time, check out the FirstUse report and see if this is something which may help you in your daily grind.  Playing with the latest gear and gadgets is not all fun and games, you know!

A person can go without food for several weeks, without water for several days, but cannot go without air for more than a few minutes.

The importance of proper breathing is not new.  Most martial arts stress the importance of proper breathing in order to generate power.  Other arts like Tai Chi, yoga, and meditation use controlled breathing as a means to calm the mind, focus the body, and release stress.

Most people know "how" to breathe, but interestingly many do not know "when" to breathe for optimal mind/body control.  Helicor has created a device called the StressEraser.  Its purpose is to show the user the best time to breathe for optimal relaxation.

The device is pretty simple to use.  However, it also requires a little bit of commitment from the user in order to be effective.  

In the FirstLook review, we will take a look at the device and the technology behind it.  In the FirstUse review, we will see it in action.  

Reviews:

1. FirstLook

2. FirstUse

Review Summary:

Initial Impression- portable

Usability- instant feedback

Durability- TBD

Price- $300