Hacking Sleep: Designing for Biological Rhythms

Human biology has adapted over millennia to respond to the environment in which it evolved, including the rotation of the planet that produces the daily day-night cycle. There is now considerable evidence that disruptions to these fundamental biological rhythms (i.e., sleep-wake and circadian cycles) significantly affect human performance and wellbeing and is associated with increased vulnerability to physical and mental health problems. Digital technology can interfere with sleep, especially amongst young people who often obtain inadequate or unhealthy sleep. This presentation will address how we can design digital products that respect the need for healthy sleep by incorporating an understanding of the physiology and psychology of sleep, and effective methods to promote healthy sleep.

Programming descriptions are generated by participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of SXSW.

photo of Nick Allen
Nick Allen

Ksana Health

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