Abstract: A method of reducing stress incudes measuring an initial heart rate of a user of a stress reducing system. A target heart rate for the user is selected. A musical parameter of music is played at an initial musical parameter that is associated with the initial heart rate. The musical parameter is changes until the musical parameter matches a target musical parameter that is associated with the target heart rate. A current heart rate of the user is measured. If the current heart rate does not substantially match the target heart rate, the musical parameter is changed until the musical parameter substantially matches an intermediate musical parameter, the intermediate musical parameter associated with the current heart rate. Thereafter, the musical parameter is changed until the musical parameter substantially matches the target musical parameter.

Abstract: A method of soothing a wearer of a body-worn device includes detecting an emotional state of the wearer of the body-worn device by reading sensors associated with the body-worn device. Based upon the emotional state, one or more of a plurality of sensation emitting devices of the body-worn device are energized a pattern, providing soothing to the wearer of the body-worn device. In one pattern, sequential energization of the plurality of sensation emitting devices simulated stroking of the person wearing the body-worn device.

Abstract: A method, and apparatus for Virtual Reality Feedback biases or limits movement of various joints of a wearer's body so as to impart a feeling of physical properties of a virtual object. In such the user wears a body-worn device that includes one or more resilient and/or non-resilient linkages that bias or restrict movement of one or more joints of the wearer. For example, to impart weight to a virtual object, a resilient linkage is strung behind the wearer's elbow and the virtual reality controller signals the body-worn device regarding a weight of the object that the user is trying to lift. Responsive, the body-worn device controls one or more actuators to increase/decrease tension on the resilient linkage, thereby making it easier or more difficult for the wearer to bend their elbow.

Abstract: A method of soothing a wearer of a body-worn device includes detecting an emotional state of the wearer of the body-worn device by reading sensors associated with the body-worn device. Based upon the emotional state, one or more of a plurality of sensation emitting devices of the body-worn device are energized a pattern, providing soothing to the wearer of the body-worn device. In one pattern, sequential energization of the plurality of sensation emitting devices simulated stroking of the person wearing the body-worn device.