Problem
Mental health has become both a timely topic and an area of increasing need. As someone who has personally experienced periods of anxiety, I was curious about how design and technology could create practical tools that are quick to access and easy to build. Specifically, I wanted to explore how a digital experience might help users:
- Return to their Window of Tolerance
- Self-regulate in moments of stress
- Build emotional awareness
- Prepare soothing tools in advance for when they need them most
The Soothing Box is a digital concept designed around these goals. Psychological research shows that tactile and visual rituals can lower stress. This project reimagines that practice in a digital format that anyone can access on demand. By using no-code/low-code tools and AI, the challenge was to rapidly turn this concept into a prototype that demonstrates how technology can support mental wellness in an accessible and scalable way.
Process
Sketches
I began with quick sketches to explore the core idea of the Soothing Box. Before sketching, I consulted mental health organizations to better understand the needs of people managing anxiety. With the rising demand for mental wellness support among tech-savvy women in their 20s and 30s in mind, I framed my early sketches around creating a simple, personal ritual that could be both engaging and reassuring.
I began with quick sketches to explore the core idea of the Soothing Box. Before sketching, I consulted mental health organizations to better understand the needs of people managing anxiety. With the rising demand for mental wellness support among tech-savvy women in their 20s and 30s in mind, I framed my early sketches around creating a simple, personal ritual that could be both engaging and reassuring.
Figma Make + Vibe Coding
Using Figma Make combined with AI tools (ChatGPT, Gemini), I transformed sketched ideas into interactive elements. This vibe coding process allowed me to simulate customization features and soothing animations without traditional coding, proving the speed and accessibility of this workflow.
Using Figma Make combined with AI tools (ChatGPT, Gemini), I transformed sketched ideas into interactive elements. This vibe coding process allowed me to simulate customization features and soothing animations without traditional coding, proving the speed and accessibility of this workflow.
Prototype
Finally, I assembled everything into a clickable prototype. The demo showed how users could design their own Soothing Box in real time, not only presenting the look and feel but also evoking the calming effect it was meant to deliver.
Finally, I assembled everything into a clickable prototype. The demo showed how users could design their own Soothing Box in real time, not only presenting the look and feel but also evoking the calming effect it was meant to deliver.
Next Steps
To continue developing this concept, I plan to:
- Consult licensed therapists to validate the psychological effectiveness and ensure alignment with mental health best practices.
- Collaborate with engineers to refine functionality and explore technical feasibility beyond the prototype.
- Design a mobile version to deliver a truly accessible tool that can seamlessly integrate into daily routines.
