Contents

 

General

1. News

2. Delivery contents eSense Respiration

3. Analysis of eSense data (CSV)

4. Streaming eSense data to a PC/Mac/Browser (eSense Web App, OSC)

5. Duplicate eSense on a large screen (screen mirroring)

6. Troubleshooting Measuring Signal and Breathing Belt

7. EC Declaration of Conformity

8. Contact

 

Breathing

9. General Information about Breathing and Breathing Training

10. Essential Functions of eSense Respiration

11. Explanation of the Individual Measured Values

 

Biofeedback Training

12. Introduction to eSense Respiration

13. Operating Instructions for eSense Respiration

14. Breath Measurement and Biofeedback Training

15. Procedures

16. Open Training

 

Software & Accessories

17. Extending the cord of the eSense

18. Adapter for Android and Apple devices

19. Smart Bulbs (optional)

20. Philips™ Hue™ FAQ

21. Magic Blue FAQ

 

eSense App (Android / iOS)

22. Functions of the Mindfield eSense App

23. General notes

24. General view & Open Training

25. Breath Pacer

26. Biofeedback Snake

27. Survey (optional)

28. Pie Chart (after the measurement)

29. Procedure Overview

30. Procedure editor

31. Add new module

32. Overview of the modules

33. Creation of a procedure

34. Meditations

35. Own media (photos, videos and audios)

36. General settings

37. In App Purchases

38. Archive (overview)

39. Archive (single view)

40. Marker feature

41. Compatible Android and iOS devices

42. Adapter for Android and Apple devices

 

eSense Web App (www.esense.live)

43. eSense Web App

44. Supervisor Guide

 

Account & Cloud (optional)

45. Account and Cloud

46. Account Comparison

47. Groups

48. Privacy policy

 

1. News

New in 6.7.7

We’ve overhauled the entire app to improve stability and performance and added some new features.

  • Added new smart bulb support for Philips Hue Bluetooth connections/lamps: no bridge required anymore, but still supported
  • Improved smart bulb feedback for eSense Pulse
  • Enhanced Smartbulb features in procedures and open training

Find the updated manual and FAQ in our helpdesk: https://help.mindfield.de

Check out our Youtube channel with Smartbulb tutorial videos: https://www.youtube.com/c/Mindfield-Biosystems

2. Delivery contents eSense Respiration

eSense Skin Response with eSense Respiration and Smartphone

Scope of delivery of the eSense Respiration:

  • Mindfield® eSense Respiration Sensor incl. replacement spring spare spring
  • stretch belt
  • eSense App from Mindfield (Apple App Store, Google Play or Amazon App Store)
  • Detailed instructions for effective biofeedback training

Attention!

  • To run eSense Respiration, you need an eSense Skin Response!
  • eSense Respiration is an additional product to eSense Skin Response.
  • eSense Skin Response is available in a package with eSense Respiration at a reduced price.
  • Users who already own eSense Skin Response can purchase eSense Respiration as a supplement.

Notes

If you would like to have a longer cable between the eSense and your smartphone or tablet, you can extend the original cable of the eSense. More about this in our article.

Some newer iOS devices without the classic 3.5mm headphone jack need an adapter. More about this in our article.

3. Analysis of eSense data (CSV)

You can export the data from the eSense app and then further evaluate it with other programs (such as Microsoft Excel™ or Google Spreadsheets™). In this guide we will show you all the steps, from exporting from the eSense app to importing and evaluating in Microsoft Excel™ and Google Sheets™.

For the eSense Pulse we also have a complementary article about the Kubios HRV software.

The examples shown in this guide are mostly related to the eSense Skin Response. In principle, however, data from the eSense Temperature, eSense Pulse, eSense Respiration or eSense Muscle can be processed in the same way.

Exporting measured values from the Mindfield eSense app

The app also includes an archive where you can save and export your recordings.

Export data

By tapping on the export icon in the upper right or by tapping the “Export as CSV File” button at the bottom you can export the recordings in .csv format with all common apps (e.g. send via Messenger™, WhatsApp™, email etc.) or simply on your phone or in your cloud (e.g. Google Drive™ or Dropbox™).

The data is exported as.csv file (comma-separated values). You can open this file format e.g. with Microsoft Excel™ or Open Office Calc™ (free alternative to Excel).

If you like working with Google, Google Sheets™ (Google Tabellen™ in German) can also be an alternative to Excel for you. You can also open and visualize your exported.csv files and easily access them from multiple devices via the cloud. Google Sheets has similar functions as Excel and a very similar operation.

General Note

The exported files are always CSV files. CSV stands for “Comma separated values”. This means that a comma separates the values in the file (,).

These CSV files can be opened and edited with programs such as Microsoft Excel™, Google Sheets™. It is also possible to import and edit with frequently used programming languages or frameworks such as R™, Python™, Numpy™ or Tensorflow™.

These instructions refer to Microsoft Excel™ and Google Sheets™. We recommend beginners to use Google Sheets™ rather than Microsoft Excel™, because it is easier to use and it often works better with our measurements (f.i. the seconds are not automatically prefixed to dates, see in the section on Excel). Google Sheets is also a bit better at quickly creating charts automatically. Using Excel makes more sense if you are already more familiar with Excel.

You can find Google Sheets™ here: https://www.google.com/sheets/about/

Your settings at Excel™ and Google Sheets™ are decisive. The eSense app adapts the measured values to the language used. In English, the numbers are usually separated by a dot. Therefore, 1.5 in the English version becomes 1,5 in the German version. So if you open the CSV file with Excel™ or Google Sheets™ and the numbers don’t make sense, it’s usually because of different languages in the eSense app and Excel™ or Sheets™.

In principle, therefore, the following applies: If you use Excel™ or Sheets™ in German, you should also use the eSense app in German. If you use Excel™ or Sheets™ in English, you should also use the eSense app in English. This saves you the first two steps (replacing decimal separators and splitting values into columns) and you can start directly with step 3 (Apply skin conductance against time).

Microsoft Excel™

1. Replace decimal separator (only necessary if you have different language settings in Excel™ and the eSense app)

  1. Press Ctrl+H (search and replace).
  2. Replace all commas “,” with semicolons “;” (replace the column separator)
  3. Replace all commas “,” with periods “.” (replace decimal separator)
  4. (Alternatively, you can change the decimal separator used by Excel™ by default: Click File – Options – Advanced. Deactivate the item “Take over separator from operating system” and select dot as decimal separator and comma as thousand separator.
Replace decimal seperator

2. Split values into columns (only necessary if you have different language settings in Excel™ and the eSense app)

The values for time and measured value are still in the first column, separated by commas or semicolons. You must divide them into two columns.

  1. Select the entire first column A
  2. Click on the “Text to columns” function in the “Data” menu
  3. Select file type “separate” or “Delimited” and click on next.
  4. Choose the separator comma (,) or semicolon (;) depending on which character separates the values
  5. Click on “Next”, Column data format “General”, and “Finish”.
Distribute values on columns

3. Format seconds correctly (optional)

Excel often formats the seconds in the first column automatically to a date. Unfortunately there is no way to disable this, it is preset by Excel. But there are a few ways to solve this: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/stop-automatically-changing-numbers-to-dates-452bd2db-cc96-47d1-81e4-72cec11c4ed8

4. Draw skin conductance against time

  1. Select both columns. The first column with the seconds and another column with the measured value depending on the eSense sensor (Microsiemens for Skin Response, Celsius/Fahrenheit for Temperature, heart rate or RR interval or HRV amplitude for Pulse, RR or breaths per minute for Respiration) completely. Then press the CTRL and Shift keys simultaneously, hold them down, press the left, and down arrow keys. With this abbreviation, you can quickly select both columns, even for thousands of measured values).
  2. Select the diagram type “Scatter” in the “Insert” menu and then the diagram type “Scatter with smooth lines and marker”. You get a diagram with the time in seconds in the horizontal axis. Alternatively, you can also select “Line”.
  3. Note: If you are using the latest version of Excel™, you can also try “Recommended graphs”. Often Excel™ already recognizes the graph automatically.
Create diagram (points with interpolated lines and data points)
The finished diagram (Type Line) of a measurement with the eSense Skin Response
The finished diagram (Type Line) of a measurement with the eSense Pulse

5. Draw skin conductance against markers

  1. First create the diagram from the previous step 3 (Draw skin conductance against time)
  2. In the menu under “Diagram tools” -> “Chart Design” select “Select data”. A new mask will appear.
  3. Under “Legend entries (rows)”, select “Add”.
  4. Enter a series name (for example “markings”) and select your markings for the row values (in column F)
  5. Select from the menu “Add chart element” -> “Data labels” -> “More data label options”.
  6. A menu will open on the right. There you can select “Label options” -> “Value from cells” (and deactivate “Value” if necessary). Another mask opens and you have to mark your marks from column D again.
  7. If you also want the lines to the positions in the graphs, you must select “Add chart element” -> “Drop Lines”
  8. You can now adjust colors or fonts.
The finished diagram with markers of a measurement with the eSense Skin Response

6. Draw skin conductance against SCR

  1. First create the diagram from the previous step 3 (Draw skin conductance against time)
  2. In the menu under “Diagram tools” -> “Chart Design” select “Select data”. A new mask will appear.
  3. Under “Legend entries (rows)”, select “Add”.
  4. Enter a series name (for example SCR”) and select your SCR/min for the row values (in column F)
  5. In the menu under “Chart Tools” -> “Design” select “Change Chart Type”. A new mask will appear. In the tab, select “All Charts” -> “Combo” -> “Custom Combination”. For the SCR, select “Clustered Column” from the drop-down menu and make sure that the tick next to Secondary axis is set (see also following screenshot).
Add SCR series as grouped columns
Another Combo-Chart with Skin Response and SCR

As in Excel™, complications with the separators can also occur here. The exported files are always CSV files. CSV stands for “Comma separated values. This means that a comma separates the values in the file (,)

Google often tries to format the data automatically. Then it can happen, among other things, that the measured values are interpreted as date. To prevent this, you should first make sure that you select “Format” -> “Number” -> “Number”.

1. Replace decimal separator (only necessary if you have different language settings in Google Sheets™ and the eSense app)

  1. Press Ctrl+H (search and replace).
  2. Replace all commas “,” with semicolons “;” (replace the column separator)
  3. Replace all commas “,” with periods “.” (replace decimal separator)
Replace decimal seperator

2. Split values into columns (only necessary if you have different language settings in Google Sheets™ and the eSense app)

Depending on their language settings, the values for time and measured value are both in the first column, separated by commas or semicolons. You must divide them into two columns.

  1. Select the entire first column A
  2. Click on “Data” -> “Split text into columns” in the menu
  3. Choose the separator comma (,) or semicolon (;) depending on which character separates the values as seperator

3. Apply skin conductance against time.

  1. Mark both columns (Second and Micro Siemens/Celsius/Fahrenheit) completely
    (Tip: click with the mouse into the column where “Measured values” is written. Then press the CTRL and Shift keys simultaneously, hold them down, press the left, and down arrow keys. With this abbreviation, you can quickly select both columns, even for thousands of measured values).
  2. 4.3. Select “Insert” -> “Chart” in the menu. Note: Google Sheets™ often tries to automatically create the right chart. Sometimes this works well, sometimes it doesn’t. If the diagram does not make sense, simply continue with the next steps.
  3. Click on the diagram. A dialog box should open at the right margin. Select “Smoothed line chart” as the diagram type. For “X-axis”, make sure seconds are selected. For the “series”, make sure that your measured values are selected.

4. Enter main conductance against highlights

  1. Delete column C with the time stamp
  2. Mark the column with your measured values and the column with your markings simultaneously (as shown in the following screenshot)
  3. 4.3. Select “Insert” -> “Diagram” in the menu. -> „Diagramm“. Note: Google Sheets™ often tries to automatically create the right chart. Sometimes this works well, sometimes it doesn’t. If the diagram does not make sense, simply continue with the next steps.
  4. Click on the diagram. A dialog box should open at the right margin. Select “Smoothed line diagram” as the diagram type. For the “series”, make sure that your measured values are selected. Your markings should be selected as “Labelling”. See also the following screenshot:
Another diagram showing SCR and markers

The diagrams made via Google Sheets can also be embedded via iFrame, as shown in this example:

4. Streaming eSense data to a PC/Mac/Browser (eSense Web App, OSC)

We offer advanced users such as biofeedback trainers, therapists and coaches the ability to stream the measurement data of the eSense sensors via the eSense app to a PC as well. Thus, group courses can be realized or remote training, whereby the trainee can be in a very different place than the trainer. Even a remote supervision is easy.

All features described below are not public but available on request. In our online shop, we offer an eSense set for professional users (https://mindfield-shop.com/produkt/esense-set-exkl-sdk) , where the use of these features is included in the price. After unlocking, you can see these features in the settings in the eSense app when you scroll all the way down.

Currently, we offer you two ways to transfer data from the eSense App to the PC: our eSense Web App or the OSC Transfer. Both can even be used in parallel but usually it makes sense to use either one of them. The OSC protocol is used for fast and timely streaming and actually comes from the music industry. OSC is open-source and there are a lot of possibilities to integrate the protocol into existing software.

eSense Web App

With the eSense Web App for iOS and Android, we have also developed an eSense web app for the browser, which mirrors and supplements the eSense mobile app.

You need an account for the eSense app and one of our plans. You can analyze your recorded data in the browser (with the basic plan) or even stream it in real time to a PC (with the premium plan). With the eSense Web App you can view the measurements of several and different eSenses simultaneously and in real time.

For example as professional user you can watch and look after a group of 5 different users, each with their own eSense. Different sensors, for example an eSense Skin Response with an eSense Pulse or Temperature or Respiration, can be freely combined. The users can even be distributed around the world. They just need a smartphone, an eSense sensor, the mobile app and a booked plan. More information about the plans soon here.

eSense Web App at a live measurement with the eSense Pulse

As a private user, you can also benefit from the fact that you can see the graph even better with a large screen and enlarge individual areas.

You will find the eSense Web App at https://esense.live. There you can log in with the same account (username and password) as for the eSense mobile app.

OSC Transfer

OSC Transfer enabled in the settings

OSC (https://opensoundcontrol.stanford.edu) stands for “Open Sound Control” and is an open-source network protocol developed by the University of California at Berkeley. It is widely used in the music industry because it is great for processing different signals in real time (for example, at a concert where it is important to match multiple microphones and lights in real time).

This makes this protocol particularly well suited for the data transmission of several eSenses in real time. Due to the wide distribution in the music industry, there are already some extensions and plugins which you can adjust relatively easily and use in a self-designed software. These are usually found in all common programming languages like for Android, iOS, Java, Javascript, C ++, Python and many more.

To use OSC with the eSense app, you must define the IP address of the user receiving the data. This can be a local IP address or an IP address on the internet. You can define the ports as you wish. You should pay attention to firewalls, as they like to prevent the flow of data.

You can also define a variable in the app to be able to assign different eSense. This will allow you to sort or filter the eSense (or users) and analyze it better.

The OSC transfer is aimed at programmers of (Windows or Mac) software who want to integrate the data from the eSense. The available OSC libraries in the usual programming languages make such integration very easy.

You can enable OSC Transfer in the general settings in the eSense app (see screenshot)

5. Duplicate eSense on a large screen (screen mirroring)

With the eSense app, it is possible to display the screen content of a tablet or smartphone on a larger screen, which is known as stream mirroring. This allows you to watch your biofeedback training at home on your big screen TV, for example, which can improve your training.

The following instructions can be used with all eSense devices. An adapter is always required:

Smartphone / tablet (with the eSense app) Adapter TV / projector

We generally recommend iOS devices.

Android

With Android, it only works with newer devices that have a USB-C output and a 3.5 mm jack plug. Android devices with micro USB do not work.

Our recommendation is this adapter on Amazon:

JSAUX USB C HDMI Adapter, 4K USB Type-C Thunderbolt 3 auf HDMI Adapter https://amzn.to/3Use9Hp

eSense Skin Response, Temperature and Respiration: If your device no longer has a 3.5mm jack plug and you are already using a USB-C to 3.5mm jack adapter for the eSense, unfortunately you cannot use the USB-C to HDMI adapter.

Wireless with HDMI dongles (Miracast / Chromecast etc.)

We have had rather mixed experiences with the common HDMI dongles. There are many options, but the dongles generally require an external power supply and are rather complicated to set up.

We therefore advise against using them, but in principle it works and is an alternative if no further adapter is available in the device (because the device only has a USB-C but no longer has a 3.5mm jack plug).

iOS

You can connect a Lightning Digital AV Adapter or a USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter to the Lightning port of your iOS device and use an HDMI cable (sold separately) to connect your iOS device to a TV or projector.

In principle, this is possible with any iPhone, iPad and iPad Pro that are also compatible with our eSense app.

We expressly recommend only original Apple adapters. Others may work under certain circumstances if they have MFI certification. However, Apple could change something at any time, so we do not recommend third-party adapters, which may not be updated quickly enough and may no longer be compatible.

You can find the original Apple adapters on Amazon:

Apple Lightning Digital AV Adapter https://amzn.to/3y7ndtY
Apple USB-C-Digital-AV-Multiport-Adapter https://amzn.to/3wdvoEx

eSense Skin Response, Temperature and Respiration: iOS also requires a USB-C to 3.5mm jack adapter for these eSense devices (this is not required for the eSense Pulse and Muscle as they connect to the smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth).

This means that if you want to use an iPad with the eSense, it should also have a 3.5mm jack connection. The iPad Mini 5 would be an example, this is slightly older, but still has the 3.5mm jack connection. For normal iPads, the 9th generation devices were the last with the 3.5mm jack connection. We recommend https://www.refurbed.de/c/ipads/ or https://www.rebuy.de/kaufen/apple-tablets to purchase these at a reasonable price.

Wireless with Airplay

We have had good experiences with AirPlay. The setup at Apple is very simple, the best solution is probably a used Apple TV from 50 euros: Apple TV 4K Gen 1 https://www.refurbed.de/p/apple-tv-4k-5th-gen/

Mini projector

There are now also relatively good mini projectors available for an acceptable price. In our experience, these are not particularly bright, but in a sufficiently dark room they are an option.

The projector only needs an HDMI input.

6. Troubleshooting Measuring Signal and Breathing Belt

  1. If there are any problems using the eSense Respiration, please check the belt and spring. The harness should be positioned around your chest or abdomen in a tensioned position but should not be uncomfortably tight or squeezed. The spring is under the belt. You can also put your finger on the spring to see whether it responds and leads to a deflection of the curve during a running measurement.
  2. Check the connection between the eSense Skin Response and eSense Respiration housings to make sure the snap fasteners are properly attached and that the other end is plugged into the microphone input.
  3. Should the spring break or otherwise deteriorate in quality, a replacement spring is included. To change the spring, slightly bend it upwards with your finger, then pull it out to the front. The new spring is simply pushed back into the housing.

7. EC Declaration of Conformity

according to the following guidelines:

Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) (2004/108/EC)
RoHS substance bans (2011/65/EU)
WEEE Waste Electrical Equipment Disposal (2002/96/EG & 2008/34/EG)

The manufacturer / Distributor / Authorized representative

Mindfield Biosystems Ltd.
Hindenburgring 4
D-48599 Gronau
Germany

WEEE-Reg.-Nr. DE 24465971

hereby declares that the following product:

“Mindfield® eSense Respiration” in combination with the Mindfield® eSense Skin Response”

complies with the provisions of the Directives identified above, including their amendments in force at the time of the declaration.

The following harmonized standards have been applied:

DIN EN 60950-1 Information technology equipment – Safety – Part 1: General Requirements (2011-01)

DIN EN 55022 Information technology equipment – Radio disturbance characteristics (2008-05)

DIN EN 55024 Information technology equipment – Immunity characteristics (2011-09)

Place: Gronau
Date: 08. May 2019

Niko Rockensüß, Managing Director

The Mindfield eSense must be disposed of as electronic scrap in accordance with legal regulations.
WEEE-Reg.-Nr. DE 24465971

8. Contact

Mindfield® Biosystems Ltd. · Hindenburgring 4 · D-48599 Gronau

Tel: + 49 (0)2565 406 27 27 · Fax: + 49 (0)2565 406 27 28 · E-Mail: info@mindfield.de

If you have questions about our products or need support, please do not hesitate to contact us! To avoid inappropriate advertising and spam, we ignore messages with specific content. We therefore ask you to not write links in the contact form. If this should be necessary, please write us an email.

Please do not send unsolicited packages to us. Unfree returns will not be accepted and cannot be processed.

    Anti-Spam Question:
    captcha

    9. General Information about Breathing and Breathing Training

    Our state of mind is reflected in our breathing. If we are pleased or tense, we usually breathe quickly, irregularly and flatly. Positive as well as negative stress is reflected in this way. If, on the other hand, we are relaxed and calm or sleepy, our breathing is usually slow, even and deep.

    All in all: Conscious, slow, deep breathing, preferably into the stomach, leads to a clear relaxation! We take advantage of this aspect.

    Breathing has a special role in biofeedback in that we can consciously control this parameter. In everyday life we rarely think of our breathing and breathe almost exclusively unconsciously. If our unconscious breathing patterns are disturbed by chronic stress, pain or other psychological or physical stresses, this often leads to discomfort and the maintenance of stress.

    With breathing training, you can train and improve your breathing, achieve deep relaxation states and significantly increase your general well-being. Breathing therefore plays an important role in almost all relaxation techniques such as autogenic training, yoga, meditation and progressive muscle relaxation.

    Direct biofeedback of breathing; i.e., real-time feedback of breathing pattern, depth and frequency helps our consciousness to achieve new, better breathing patterns faster and more precisely than without biofeedback. The focus on feedback prevents the otherwise so frequent drift in thoughts and loss of concentration on breathing. Many meditation techniques involve the observation of breathing, which is very difficult for many beginners. Breathing biofeedback makes this entry much easier.

    After a learning phase of some training sessions, respiratory biofeedback leads to a new feeling of switching off and full focus on breathing, more and more without the feedback of biofeedback, as a better self-perception is developed. In chapter “Training sequence” the sequence of a respiratory biofeedback training program is described.

    Follow this suggestion and develop your own routines and integrate breathing training into your everyday life, first with and later without biofeedback. The eSense Respiration is a powerful tool to help you breathe better.

    10. Essential Functions of eSense Respiration

    eSense Respiration is a breathing belt sensor that uses a smartphone/tablet and an app to accurately measure your breathing. The sensor focuses on the feedback of your breathing. eSense Respiration provides breathing training with biofeedback and serves to improve your breathing pattern, your breathing duration, breathing depth and thus your health! Breathing plays an important role in general well-being, and breathing exercises are part of many relaxation techniques around the world.

    The eSense Respiration with the eSense App offers you:

    • A pressure sensor to record your breathing (breathing frequency, breathing depth, breathing pattern;
      (application always in connection with eSense Skin Response, as a sensor cable)
    • A stretch belt that is comfortable to wear, washable and durable
    • Unlimited recording duration
    • Unlimited number of sessions and users
    • Extensive statistics for breath analysis
    • Breathing aid for breathing training with freely adjustable intervals, auxiliary tones and more
    • Export of measurement data as a csv file with compatibility to other software programs for further analysis
    • Export of curves, diagrams and statistics as a PDF report
    • To train and improve your breathing, the app offers a wealth of biofeedback feedback:
      • Bar feedback
      • Curve feedback
      • Video feedback (videos included and own videos freely selectable)
      • Music feedback (music included and own music freely selectable)
      • Tone feedback (change of pitch by the measured values)
      • Tactile feedback through vibration (only smartphones; tablets cannot vibrate)
      • Feedback through color changes of smart bulbs (Bluetooth® bulb and Philips Hue products are controllable)
    • Set any number of markers during a recording
    • Different, prefabricated training procedures are included in the app
    • Free training according to your wishes with any biofeedback variant or several at the same time
    • Extensive in-app help and manuals
    • Regular updates of the app
    • Possible combination with the eSense Pulse for heart rate variability biofeedback with determination of the coherence between heartbeat and respiration!

    11. Explanation of the Individual Measured Values

    Regularity (developed specifically by Mindfield)

    We also included the regularity as another value. This is also recorded by a formula developed by us and displayed in color (from a measurement duration of 5 minutes or more) in the overview after the measurement:

    Attention: The colored coloring of the regularity does not correspond 100% with the color distribution in the pie chart as these are detected in different ways.

    For the background coloring of the oscilloscope, a period of 20 seconds is taken and it is determined which regularity value is the most common color.

    The pie chart, on the other hand, uses all the numeric regularity values of the entire session, with the percentages in red, yellow, orange, and green taken from them.

    General respiration values

    There are three categories of readings that we cover with the eSense app: Breathing rate, depth and pattern.

    Respiratory rate
    The breathing rate is the number of breaths per minute. In other words, how often you breathe. No specific value is sought. However, most people tend to breathe too quickly, especially during stress, so they tend to aim for slower breathing (fewer breaths per minute). The number of breaths per minute also depends on the activity.

    Breathing depth
    In simple terms, the depth of breath means how deeply you breathe. The Maximum RA (Respiration Amplitude) is the maximum of the calculated amplitude. The higher this value is, the deeper you breathe. A high value is sought. Independent of the activity, deep breathing is generally desirable, independent of the activity. Some breathing techniques such as the Wim Hof method work with particularly fast and deep breathing (hyperventilation).

    Breathing patterns
    The breathing pattern is the form of breathing. This is represented by the graph. The aim is to achieve a uniform graph. You can see an example of an even graph on page 9 of this manual. A nice even curve is also desirable regardless of the activity.

    12. Introduction to eSense Respiration

    Biofeedback breathing training with eSense Respiration is about observing your breathing through changing bars, curves, music, sounds, vibrations, light from light bulbs, and more. This gives your consciousness a new perspective on breathing, self-perception is trained, and a feedback cycle is created.

    But it is also about the change of the breathing, towards a slower, deep abdominal breathing, which has many positive effects and can be trained by a breathing target in our app.

    We combine the measurement and feedback of breathing in the eSense App with guided relaxation exercises, guided breathing exercises and meditation and offer you a total experience beyond biofeedback. In addition to extensive feedback variants, you can evaluate your measurements with many statistics, document your progress and export the recordings as CSV and PDF files. Your data belongs only to you! You have full access to the raw data.

    Respiration is measured according to the principle of strain measurement. With every breath, your chest and abdomen space will rise and fall, and the belt you put on over your clothes will stretch slightly. You can put the eSense Respiration Stretch Belt either around the chest or around the abdomen. Abdominal breathing is measured and trained more frequently. eSense Respiration has a spring that translates the pressure of the belt into readings. The eSense Respiration Sensor is used for transmission to your smartphone and tablet via its microphone input. Our eSense app evaluates these signals and displays them in a comprehensive form.

    13. Operating Instructions for eSense Respiration

    Contents of the packaging:

    • eSense Respiration Sensor Unit (black box with inserted spring + one replacement spring to replace in case of defect of inserted spring)
    • eSense Respiration Stretch Strap, variable length adjustable
    • Printed guide

    Remove the eSense from its packaging. Put on the expansion strap as shown and adjust it to the correct length.

    You can wear the belt either around the chest or around the abdomen. In most cases, the measurement and training of deep abdominal breathing are useful.

    The belt should sit quite loosely and should not restrict you in any way! A small amount of pressure on the spring of the sensor unit is enough. After applying the strap, slide the sensor unit under the strap, connect the cables from the eSense Skin Response to the sensor’s push button connectors, and plug the other end of the eSense Skin Response into the microphone input of your smartphone or tablet. If your device no longer has a microphone input, an adapter may be required (e.g., for the newer Apple iPhones/iPads). This is available from the manufacturer and the eSense works fine with it.

    14. Breath Measurement and Biofeedback Training

    To reduce stress and its vegetative symptoms, biofeedback training can be performed by monitoring and reporting your breathing. Frequently, feedback alone is enough without specifications, and the user automatically breathes more calmly and evenly.

    In addition to this measurement and feedback, it is also possible to specify how the user should breathe. The app includes a breathing aid for this purpose. A bar, line or sphere changes by rising or zooming to symbolize inhalation. A falling of the beam or lines, as well as a shrinking of the sphere shows an exhalation. The user follows this guideline by breathing. The breathing target is freely adjustable regarding inhalation – hold – exhale – hold.

    Adjustment options for breathing aid (sphere; line) and tones
    Adjustment options for the breathing aid with freely selectable times for inhalation, holding, exhalation, holding and the resulting breaths per minute
    Breathing aid as a ball (right) with a measured breathing curve (left)
    and coherence between breathing and curve

    Breathing can be used quite universally for biofeedback training. In stress medicine and psychophysiology, respiratory biofeedback is used, for example, for depression, heart disease, asthma, anxiety disorders and insomnia. Breathing biofeedback is also common in coaching and competitive sports. Improving breathing patterns can help relieve tensions, cope with stress and anxiety, and help you react more calmly in everyday life. If you suffer from an illness, do not treat yourself; instead, consult a therapist. eSense Respiration is not a medical device and may only be used for stress reduction.

    The eSense Respiration is a handy device. It can record respiration and display it as a measurement curve, for example. Look at the following example of a measurement at rest and with even, slow breathing:

    Sample measurement curve eSense Respiration at rest, with deep, slow
    and even respiration (RA = Respiration Amplitude)

    As you can see in the example above, the curve is a distinct sine wave and the amplitudes are very uniform. Such a waveform is desirable.

    The curve looks very different under requirements and with uneven breathing, as the following figure shows:

    Example of eSense Respiration curve for tension or requirements and erratic,
    irregular, fast and shallow breathing.

    In this example above, the curve is uneven, and the deflections are different.

    In the eSense app, you can do a free training or complete predefined procedures. Your breathing is reported back, and an increase (inhalation; belt expanding) changes a feedback in a certain way, while a decrease (exhalation; belt contracting) changes a feedback in a slightly different way.

    As feedback there is; e.g., a video, which becomes brighter or sharper in the positive case (darker or blurred in the negative case), a music, whose volume changes, tones, which change in the sound, a vibration of the smartphone, and much more. Of interest is the function of controlling a smart light bulb (Philips Hue or Magic Blue), whereby breathing is reflected in the change in color and brightness of one or more lamps. You can use your breathing to illuminate an entire room in different ways. A biofeedback training session consists of four training phases. Plan about 60 to 90 minutes for the first session, during which you can do the training undisturbed and coherently. Detailed instructions can be found in the chapter “Training sequence”.

    15. Procedures

    A procedure consists of different modules. The procedures can be used, for example, to implement instructions for relaxation, a stress test, a defined biofeedback training session or tasks for research purposes.

    The possibilities are manifold. During a procedure, your breathing is naturally recorded. At the end of a procedure, a summary is displayed, showing your readings for each module and the overall view.

    Overview after a procedure

    We recommend that you try the demo procedures included in the app. These give you a guided overview of the different modules and functions.

    The included procedures are also protected by a password in order that those can’t be edited or deleted by accident. You can any time create a copy of those procedures without a password and change it as you wish.

    We also explain in detail how you can create and edit your own procedures in the chapter procedures settings.

    16. Open Training

    As a second option you can also conduct an open training. This is compared to the procedures a bit more complex. We therefore explain a typical open training session which consists of 4 training phases.

    Preparation and start

    1. Follow the first steps of preparation from the previous chapter and choose an open training in the selection screen after starting the app.
    2. Put on the stretch belt around your chest or belly as described in the previous chapter.
    3. The belt should fit loosely over the clothing and should not slip during the measurement. Probably, it is not possible to find the optimal setting right away. This is quite normal. Above all, the belt should not give the feeling of tightening when breathing. The spring in the sensor is very sensitive, so it is enough to put on the belt only loosely, so that minimal pressure occurs.
    4. Rotate your smartphone or tablet to landscape so you can see the oscilloscope.
    5. Now start a free measurement (simply press “Start” on the main screen) and look at your breathing curve. Now it is a matter of finding an optimal setting for the belt, where an expansion of your chest or abdomen leads directly to a force transfer to the sensor and to a deflection of the measuring curve upwards. In most cases, you will then move within a measuring range of 20 to 200.
    6. Below 20 the belt is very loose, and you should not let the curve touch the zero point of the Y-axis. If you have exhaled completely, a minimum pressure should still be applied.
    7. Over 150-200 the belt is too tight from our experience and the pressure is unnecessarily strong. Loosen the belt slightly at the buckle without opening or taking off the belt. Gain experience with an optimal attitude. The belt retains its setting even for the next application.
    8. Under no circumstances should you have the feeling that you are too restricted and therefore restricted in your breathing.
    9. In order to to be able to compare sessions optimally, you can set the time for a measurement in the settings of the eSense App and limit it to a value, e.g. 10 minutes. The measurement then stops automatically after this time has elapsed. In the default setting of the eSense App, the measurement duration is unlimited. It is recommended to set a time after the first experiments and to adjust the settings to correspond to the desired, regular training duration. This way, you will get an optimal evaluation and be able to compare your training sessions later on.

    First stage (observe and experiment; determine your initial status)

    1. First, determine a 10-minute baseline (default state without influence) at rest. Before doing this, you should have found the optimum setting for the breathing belt, as described in the previous section. It always makes sense to compare measurements of the same length, so use the option in the settings to set the session length to a fixed duration, so you do not have to stop at the right time. Now set the session length to ten minutes.
    2. Try to relax as much as possible and DO NOT observe the breathing curveduring these first ten minutes, as this would falsify the measurement.
    3. Breathe calmly, deeply and evenly as you feel comfortable, but without forcing your breathing! Follow pleasant thoughts and memories.
    4. Hold your smartphone or tablet in landscape mode. Look at your breathing curve after the first ten minutes. Were there sections of an even curve? Were there strong fluctuations and irregularities How do you rate your ability to relax during the measurement? You may already be able to determine a connection between the curve and the tension or relaxation you feel. If not, no problem – this will come. Good relaxation goes hand in hand with a slow and even breathing curve. Distractions and irregular breathing affect an irregular curve.
    5. After completion of the ten-minute baseline, you will first be shown a survey. Answer the questions and take notes if necessary. You will then see two pie charts. One shows you the number of breaths per minute and the other the coherence between breathing and breathing target. Since you have not yet used the breathing target, this pie chart is unimportant. However, look at the chart of breaths per minute and note the proportion of breaths that occurs most frequently. You’re probably still breathing orange and red, which is perfectly normal. A training goal in respiratory biofeedback is to achieve a particularly slow breathing rhythm with increasing difficulty.
    6. This is now your initial training status. Of course, the respective day also plays a role: It should make a difference whether you measure after a stressful working day (or even during work) or at the end of a relaxed weekend. Use the corresponding function of the app to export this baseline as a CSV file. You can do this by calling up the measurement in the archive. With this, you can later (besides the archive) also access your baseline in other ways (e.g. in Excel). You can also export a PDF file of curves and statistics from the archive.
    7. One more hint: If the measured values are disturbed for no apparent reason, the sensor was not positioned optimally. Check the breathing curve in another measurement and again find the optimum setting for the stretch belt. Repeat the baseline measurement.
    Example of a measurement curve of a 10-minute baseline
    Display of pie diagrams after 10min Baseline

    Second training phase (targeted biofeedback training based on the measured values)

    1. The second training phase consists of several measurements, which should always be carried out according to the scheme described below. You should practice targeted relaxation with the help of feedback.
    2. Start the measurement and observe your breathing curve for a while. The goal now is to achieve an even, slow breathing curve. In the main screen of the app in portrait format, you can see the breathing in the form of a bar. With every breath the bar goes up and down. In landscape format, you can see your breathing curve in the oscilloscope. If necessary, adjust the zoom control so that breathing is clearly visible.

    Breathing as a curve and in bar form

    1. Now try to achieve a state of passive observation and allowing breathing through targeted relaxation and calm, even breathing. You can test different feedback variants of the app and test relaxation techniques. At first you can also consciously control your breathing (deep inhalation and exhalation). The device gives you precise information about the resulting respiration. At a later stage, our prefabricated breathing exercise is also discussed in the procedures of the app.
    2. Practice even breathing, including breathing aid if desired. You can configure the breathing aid in the app settings. Start breathing training at your usual breathing rate. This will in most cases be between 12 and 15 breaths per minute. This is faster than quiet breathing during deep relaxation. However, it is easier to start with your “normal” breathing first and then gradually slow down your breathing pace to below ten breaths per minute. Set the inhalation and exhalation times in the breathing target as desired. (For 15 breaths, set 2 seconds for inhalation time and 2 seconds for exhalation time, or 3 seconds for inhalation and exhalation time if you want to achieve ten quiet breaths per minute). It’s soothing to exhale a little longer than to inhale.
    3. Here is a possible example of a first exercise at 12 breaths per minute:
    2 seconds for inhalation and 3 seconds for exhalation
    (5 seconds per breath/12 breaths per minute)

    You can also set a hold time between inhalation and exhalation breaths. However, we recommend setting this to 0 at the beginning (i.e., no holding time) and experimenting with the holding time only during advanced training.

    1. Train using the various biofeedback features the app offers. In landscape format, you also have the breathing aid as a line. You have a freely selectable video, which changes with breathing. In the settings, you can choose from various options for video feedback. Use music and sounds that you can activate in the settings. The individual feedback functions are all described in more detail in the corresponding chapter of the app.
    2. Use the supplied procedures! This allows you to get to know the different functions of the app even better and to perform a standardized training. If you like, create your own individual procedure with your favorite feedback variants.

    Third Training Phase (provocation, relaxation, and stress management)

    1. In the third training phase, stress stimuli are used even more specifically to train stress management. Breathing biofeedback is well suited for the use of targeted provocation methods, as it shows a timely and sensitive reaction to a stimulus, and since this reaction is also proportional to the strength and significance of the stimulus.
    2. Start the measurement and observe your breathing curve for a while. Then try to relax. The training begins with a resting phase of a few minutes.
    3. Now a stressor (stress stimulus) should be used specifically. Examples are negative thoughts, looking at emotionally occupied pictures or objects as well as unpleasant noises. As a rule, everyone knows things that put them in tension and excitement. For example, if you do not like to speak in front of large crowds, try to make a speech spontaneously or imagine this situation. If such a stressor acts on you, observe the breathing curve, and you will probably notice a more irregular, flatter curve. Then try to increase the amplitude again and make the curve even again.
    4. During a training session, you can alternate phases of relaxation and stressors about three to four times. Always end a session with a rest phase and do not overtax yourself. Do several training sessions over a longer period until you feel you are less sensitive to stressors or recovering more quickly. The aim is to simulate everyday situations with stressors and to counter them with targeted resting breathing and to find the breathing that will help you to relax the quickest through feedback.

    Fourth Training Phase (transfer, and relaxation without feedback)

    1. Now it should be checked whether you have achieved a training success and whether an improved ability to relax is already achieved without feedback. To do this, carry out another ten-minute baseline measurement and try to relax as much as possible. DO NOT observe the measured values. Only consider afterwards how this measurement behaves in comparison to the baseline from the first training phase. In the archive, it is possible to compare sessions with each other. It is to be expected that various values have improved. Of course, your daily form also plays an important role here. Repeat the baseline measurement later if necessary. It is very important to always compare measurements of the same length, so use the option in the settings to set the session length to a fixed duration so you do not have to stop at the right time.
    2. As another transfer exercise, you can work with a stressor again and then try to relax while NOT observing the measured values. Check afterwards whether you have succeeded in improving your measured values. If you succeed in this and the comparison with the first baseline also shows a clear improvement, you have completed a successful stress reduction training. If you now find yourself in a stress situation in everyday life, think of your training sessions. Stay relaxed by using the skills learned here. The same applies here: Regular practice makes perfect!
    3. The question also arises: Have you been able to breathe slower and deeper than at the beginning? Did you get a better feeling for breathing? Do you encounter stress more often with deep abdominal breathing? Has your breathing pattern improved? These are the objectives that are usually to be achieved.
    4. Our eSense App offers free training as well as the use of procedures. These are ready-made training programs which you can individualize according to your wishes. For an optimal comparability of training sessions, they should always be carried out under identical conditions (e.g., same time of day) and with identical length. The procedures are a great help. You can read more about this in the corresponding section of this manual.

    17. Extending the cord of the eSense

    If you wish to use a longer cord between the eSense and your smartphone or tablet, you can extend the original cord of the eSense with a common, 4-pin, 3.5mm jack headset extension cord. We have tested three cords that have worked well:

    2m cord: https://amzn.to/2kil5bj
    0,5m cord: https://amzn.to/2kEB8xo
    110cm cord: https://amzn.to/2k7TBm8

    All three suggested cords cost between £6-8 and are available from Amazon. Alternatively, you should be able to use other 4-pin cords as well.

    18. Adapter for Android and Apple devices

    Some newer Android and iOS (Apple) devices without the classic 3.5mm headphone jack and with the newer Lightning / USB-C connector also work perfectly with the eSense.

    Please follow this order when using the adapter:

    1. Plug the adapter into your smartphone/tablet.
    2. Connect the eSense to the adapter.
    3. Start the eSense app.

    If the adapter with eSense is only plugged in after the app is already running and in Free Training mode (even if no training has started yet), connection issues may occur.

    If the eSense is not recognized and the signal fluctuates erratically, please close the eSense app completely and restart it. This should resolve the issue.

    Apple

    You either need an original Apple USB-C (https://amzn.to/41zD2Gd) or original Apple Lightning (https://www.mediamarkt.de/de/product/_apple-mmx62zm-a-2179668.html) to 3.5 mm connection adapter (not included in the scope of delivery of the eSense).

    Lightning to 3.5 mm Headphone Jack Adapter (which no longer
    has a 3.5mm headphone jack, e.g. the iPhone X.)

    Android & Apple

    Alternatively, you also can use any other adapter with a DAC chip. We recommend this adapter on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2SnAUA1

    DAC Adapter with an Android device

    An adapter is also only needed, if at all, for the eSense Skin Response, eSense Temperature and eSense Respiration (as these eSenses have a 3.5mm headphone jack). An adapter is never needed for the eSense Pulse and eSense Muscle (as these connect to the device wirelessly via Bluetooth®).

    General note:
    Some newer iOS devices without the classic 3.5mm headphone jack, but with a Lightning or USB-C port, also work perfectly with the eSense. For this, you’ll need either the original Apple USB-C adapter (https://amzn.to/41zD2Gd) or the original Apple Lightning to 3.5mm adapter (https://www.mediamarkt.de/de/product/_apple-mmx62zm-a-2179668.html) – which is optionally included with the eSense.

    Alternatively, you can use any other adapter with a DAC chip. We recommend this adapter on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2SnAUA1.

    We tested 11 alternative Lightning adapters from third-party vendors – only two of them worked. Therefore, we recommend either the original Apple Lightning adapter (https://www.mediamarkt.de/de/product/_apple-mmx62zm-a-2179668.html) or this compatible Lightning-to-3.5mm adapter, which we have successfully used with the eSense and also offer in our shop: Compatible Apple Lightning to 3.5mm adapter https://mindfield-shop.com/en/product/compatible-apple-lightning-to-3-5mm-adapter.

    19. Smart Bulbs (optional)

    Smarte Glühbirne in Verwendung mit dem eSense Skin Response

    The eSense app can support biofeedback via smart bulbs. Smart bulbs can change their colors and brightness and can be controlled via Bluetooth®. In combination with the eSense app, smart bulbs indicate your level of stress or relaxation through their lights.

    Currently, the eSense app supports the Magic Blue and Phillips Hue smart bulbs. Both are smart bulbs which can be controlled via Bluetooth®. The color as well as the brightness can be adjusted. From within the eSense App, you can connect to the Magic Blue or the Phillips Hue and use it in your biofeedback session. Here you connect to the Hue Bridge from the eSense app and select the desired lamps.

    Magic Blue

    Unfortunately, the Magic Blue is no longer in production. We have extended the eSense app to enable the use of Philipps Hue smart bulbs, which can be controlled via Bluetooth.

    But you still can find more information about the Magic Blue in our article

    Philips Hue

    You should be able to find the Phillips Hue in every well-sorted electronic store. You can also order it online. A list of the on- and offline-merchants can be also found on the page of the Phillips Hue: https://www.philips-hue.com/en-us

    We suggest you use one of the starter kits from Phillips, with the eSense. This also contains a colored bulb (‘Color Ambience’): https://amzn.to/3uzSFx8.

    The use of Philips Hue is available as an in-app purchase in the eSense app.

    You can also find more information about the Philips Hue in our article.

    20. Philips™ Hue™ FAQ

    eSense App and Philips Hue

    Which products from Philips Hue can I use with the eSense app?

    In general, all Philips Hue products are compatible with our eSense App and therefore can be used together with the eSense. We tested the most common products:

    • Philips Hue White
    • Philips Hue White Ambiance
    • Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance
    • Philips Hue Go (very nice!)
    • Philips Hue LightStrips White and Color Ambiance

    For the best experience, we recommend the Philips Hue White and Color Ambience, because with the colors, the feedback can be enhanced more than with only white colors. Especially we recommend using the Philips Hue Go, as it is mobile with battery and a very nice, complete lamp.

    How do I connect to the Philips Hue within the eSense App?

    You have 2 options: You can connect the Hue in the eSense app via the bridge with Zigbee or directly via Bluetooth (which is mainly the case with the newer Hue lamps).

    To connect to the Philips Hue products, open the eSense app and follow these steps:

    1. Choose the eSense sensor you want to use
    2. Choose the ‘settings’ (cogwheel symbol)
    3. Activate the “Smart bulb feedback” and select one of the two Philips Hue light bulb options (either the “Philips Hue ZigBee™ + Bridge” option or the “Philips Hue Bluetooth™” option)
    4. Press the “Change Hue settings” button for the Bridge option or select your Philips Hue for the Bluetooth option
    5. For the Bridge option: Select “Find Hue Bridge” in the tab at the top right and then click on the plus symbol at the bottom right. Follow the instructions
    6. Next you can choose the lamp(s) under ‘Hue lamps’ in the upper left. You see a list of available lamps and you can choose each with the tick right next to it. Selected lamps light up, deselected turn off.
    7. (You can also test the selected light bulb by tapping on “Test”. If this changes the color or brightness of the light bulb, this light bulb is connected)
    8. Once you have selected the bridge and/or bulb(s), exit the settings by tapping on the tick in the top right-hand corner. The settings are now saved for you

    How do I connect the Philips Hue within the Hue App?

    1. Download and Install Hue Bluetooth App: Download and install the Philips Hue Bluetooth app from your device’s app store. Ensure that your device supports Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE).
    2. Power On Your Hue Lights: Make sure your Philips Hue lights are connected to a power source and turned on. The lights should start emitting a default light pattern once powered on.
    3. Enable Bluetooth on Your Device: Turn on the Bluetooth feature on your smartphone or tablet. Make sure it’s discoverable.
    4. Open the Hue Bluetooth App: Launch the Philips Hue Bluetooth app on your device. Follow any initial setup instructions or prompts.
    5. Add Lights: In the app, navigate to the “Settings” or “Add Lights” section. Look for an option to “Add New Lights” or “Scan for Lights.”
    6. Scan for Lights: Initiate the scanning process within the app. The app will search for nearby Philips Hue lights that are ready to connect via Bluetooth.
    7. Pair the Lights: Once your lights are detected, select them from the list within the app. Follow the on-screen instructions to pair each light with your device. This process may involve confirming pairing requests and assigning names to each light.
    8. Control Your Lights: Once paired, you should be able to control your Philips Hue lights directly from the app. Adjust brightness, color, and other settings to suit your preferences.
    9. Optional: Set Up Rooms and Scenes: Organize your lights into rooms and create custom scenes for different ambiance settings within the app, if desired.

    How many Philips Hue bulbs/products can I use with the eSense app?

    We have successfully tested up to 9 products/bulbs (mixture of different type of bulbs, Hue Go and LightStripe). However, from 3 products and more the reaction time of the products/bulbs slows down significantly (Philips enables a maximum transfer speed of 100ms per signal and per bulb).

    Especially if you use several bulbs, a short distance to the Philips Bridge, the bulbs and your smartphone or tablet becomes more relevant. See also the next question about this.

    How far can the Philips Hue, the Hue Bridge and the smartphone or tablet be away?

    Usually the range is between 30 and 100 meter, depending on the environment. The range is less with objects in between (for example a wall in between can decrease the range). Also, if the Hue Bridge and your modem should be in another floor level, it can influence the range.

    However, the transmission of the signal by Philips is good enough so that there weren’t any problems with our tests in normal households with the signal. Just from 4 (and more) bulbs at the same time a recognizable lag can occur, see also the question above about this. A warning will be displayed in the app if you want to use more than 3 lamps at the same time.

    Where can I buy the Philips Hue products?

    You should be able to find the Phillips Hue in every well-sorted electronic store. You can also order it online. A list of the on- and offline-merchants can be also found on the page of the Philips Hue: https://www.philips-hue.com/en-us

    We suggest one of the starter kits from Philips for the use with the eSense. This also contains a colored bulb (‘White and Color Ambience’): https://amzn.to/3uzSFx8

    21. Magic Blue FAQ

    I can no longer find the Magic Blue in the Mindfield Shop.

    Unfortunately, the Magic Blue is no longer in production. We have extended the eSense app to enable the use of Philipps Hue smart bulbs, which can be controlled via Bluetooth.

    How do I connect to the Magic Blue?

    You connect to the Magic Blue from inside the eSense app. To connect to the Magic Blue, open the eSense app and follow these steps:

    1. Choose the eSense sensor you want to use
    2. Choose the ‘settings’ (cogwheel symbol)
    3. Enable the ‘Smart bulb feedback’ and choose ‘Magic Blue’ as the bulb type
    4. Tab on the ‘Choose A Bulb’ button and select the bulb from the list that you want to connect to
    5. (You can also test the chosen bulb by tapping on the ‘Connection Test’ button. If the color of the bulb changes by this, the bulb is connected.)

    After you have followed these steps, the app will remember the Magic Blue you have chosen (you usually don’t need to follow these steps again, unless you want to use another Magic Blue).

    You should not pair the Magic Blue by the device generic Bluetooth® settings.
    (Attention: If you pair your bulb that way, you won’t be able to find and select the Magic Blue from inside the eSense app. If you did so by accident, simply un-pair the Magic Blue from the generic Bluetooth® settings and follow the steps above).

    What can I do, if connecting to Bluetooth® fails or the Magic Blue is not found?

    Restart the Magic Blue (switch the switch of your lamp off and on again). Especially if the Magic Blue is already switched on more than 1 minute, the Magic Blue stops sending the Bluetooth® signal to connect. Restarting activates the signal again and the Magic Blue can be found.

    Why can’t I find the device when scanning for Bluetooth® devices?

    Check the light from the Magic Blue to make sure the Magic Blue is switched on. If there is metal around the Magic Blue (for example a lampshade around the Magic Blue), it could shield the Magic Blue and block the signal.

    Make also sure that the Magic Blue is not connected to another phone or tablet already since the Magic Blue can just be connected to one phone or tablet at a time (see also next question).

    How many Magic Blue bulbs can I control at the same time?

    You can control one Magic Blue at the same time.

    How far can the distance between Magic Blue and phone or tablet be?

    Usually the range is 18 to 30 meters without any objects in between. It will be less with objects between the Magic Blue and your phone or tablet (for example a wall between the Magic Blue and the smartphone or tablet can decrease the range).

    How can I reset the Magic Blue?

    Just follow this video to do so:

    22. Functions of the Mindfield eSense App

    The eSense comes with the eSense app which you can load for free in the Google Play Store (Android) or Apple App Store (iOS).

    It offers a wealth of features for effective biofeedback training in a modern design. Essential functions are: the display of measured values as a bar graph, an oscilloscope, feedback via video, music, sound, vibration, and smart bulbs (Magic Blue and Philips Hue). You receive a comprehensive evaluation after each measurement and can compare measurements with each other in the archive and export them as CSV files.

    The app is available in English, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, Ukrainian, Russian, Turkish, Dutch, Japanese and Chinese. The language is chosen automatically according to the set language of the smartphone or tablet.

    Download Links

    iOS: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mindfield-esense/id1141032160?mt=8

    Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mindfield.boisystem.esense

    23. General notes

    • If the text on your Android device is sometimes cut off the reason can be a larger font in the system settings (especially for Huawei). In the Android settings, there is usually a way to adjust the font size and display size. It’s best to set this to “standard” or “default”, otherwise it can cause problems with app.
    • For data files which you can load as own media into the eSense App, the general limitations by Android and iOS apply. We have successfully tested the following:
      • Images: PNG and JPG (GIF can be loaded but isn’t animated)
      • Audio: MP3, WMA and WAV (Android) and MP3, WAV and AAC (iOS)
      • Videos: MOV, MP4, AVI and 3GP (Android) and MOV, MP4 and M4V (iOS)
      • If your audios or videos are in other formats, you can easily convert the files on your PC. To do this, use a free tool like Any Video Converter: .
      • Another tip: You can also directly download videos from Youtube and format them to the right format (MP4) with tools like .

    In following the app is described in full details.

    24. General view & Open Training

    Portrait

    1. Measurement duration
    2. Breathing aid coherence
    3. Evenness of respiration in %
    4. Breaths per minute
    5. Display whether the value is rising or falling
    6. Breathing scale
    7. Zoom for breath scale
    8. Current elongation of the belt
    9. Starting, stopping and pausing a recording
    10. Open Training
    11. Procedures
    12. Archive
    13. Help
    14. Settings

    Landscape

    1. Currently calculated RA (Respiration Amplitude = how deep you breathe)
    2. Wipe the screen to the left or right to switch between this main view and the other views. After the measurement, you can also switch to the pie charts.
    3. Set marker

    25. Breath Pacer

    Breath pacer as ball
    Breathing aid as animation

    Breathe as the sphere expands. The ball will grow and shrink. The coherence (here 27%) shows you how much your breathing follows the target. The higher the value, the better. 100% cannot be achieved.

    As soon as you are above 50%, your breathing will follow the preset. Try to reach as high a value as possible and experiment with different breathing times (inhalation time, exhalation time, holding time).

    26. Biofeedback Snake

    Biofeedback Snake for the Respiration

    You can also display the Biofeedback snake as an additional option. At the top left are appearing symbols which vary in color depending on the current measured value.

    • The symbols are either green (further positive direction),
    • yellow (slight negative direction),
    • orange (strong negative direction) or
    • red (very strong negative direction

    After 10 green symbols you will also be rewarded with a star and after 50 green symbols even with a shooting star. If the snake goes over the entire screen you will see the last 5 minutes.

    27. Survey (optional)

    If you have activated this option in the general settings, a small survey will appear immediately after each measurement. This gives you the opportunity to archive long-term reproducible measurements or to document a change in your measurements (for example, if you start using the eSense while lying instead of sitting).

    Your position during measurement
    Choose between sitting, the “tailor’s seat” or yoga seat, standing or lying down.

    How do you feel?
    Here you can indicate your state of mind after the session. This gives you the opportunity to record your mood together with the measurement results over the long term.

    Note function, optional
    Here you can add a note to the measurement in the free text field. We recommend that you write down any special circumstances so that you can still classify measurements with a lot of stress or relaxation later.

    28. Pie Chart (after the measurement)

    After the measurement (and optional questioning), in landscape format, a screen appears with two pie charts: the breaths per minute and the coherence of breathing and breathing target, each over the entire session in %.

    At this point you can also wipe the screen to the left or right to switch between the pie charts and the graphs of the measurement.

    Pie chart and values after a measurement

    29. Procedure Overview

    Edit or delete procedure

    To edit a procedure, simply swipe it to the left in the overview.

    You can then tap the blue pen-symbol to edit the module.

    If you want to copy the procedure, tap on the green copy-symbol. By touching the red trash symbol, you can delete the module.

    30. Procedure editor

    Procedure name
    Here you can name your procedure with a suitable name (in this example, it is simply “test”).

    Password (optional)
    If you wish, you can protect your procedure with a password.

    Decimal separator
    Here you can activate/deactivate the survey (position, mood, notes) after each measurement.

    Survey after recording
    Here you can activate/deactivate the survey (position, mood, notes) after each measurement.

    31. Add new module

    In the procedure editor, select the “Modules” tab.

    Add module to procedure
    Click on this button to add another module.

    Edit module
    Move the module to the left and tap the blue pencil icon to name the module.
    To edit a module, tap the gray pencil icon.
    To delete a module, tap the red recycle bin icon.
    To duplicate a module within the procedure, click on the yellow sharing icon.
    To duplicate a module in another procedure, click on the black sharing icon and select the procedure from the following pop-up.

    Module Type
    You can choose between a text, a fixation cross, an image, a video, an audio file, an arrow, a bar graph, a smart bulb, an oscilloscope, a breath pacer or the biofeedback snake.

    Module duration
    Set how long the module shall last. To do this, simply move the slider to the left or right.

    module color
    Determine the color of the module in the procedure editor.

    32. Overview of the modules

    Text module
    This module shows a text which you can edit.
    Picture module
    The picture module shows either a standard picture from the app or a picture from your gallery.
    Video module
    In the video module, you can choose either the standard video from the app or use your own video.
    Fixation cross module
    The cross changes its color depending on the conductance and provides direct biofeedback.
    Audio module
    The audio module is playing a relaxing song. You can choose your own music.
    Arrow module
    The arrow changes depending on relaxation and gives you direct biofeedback.
    Bar graph module
    The bar graph shows you your current value and gives you direct biofeedback.
    Picture module in landscape format
    The procedures can be displayed also in landscape format.

    Breath Pacer module in landscape format
    The bar indicates the breathing rhythm. When the bar goes up, inhale. As the bar goes down, exhale. You can also set holding phases between inhaling and exhaling.

    Osciloscope Type Breath curve (Sphere)
    The circle leads the breathing rhythm. When he expands, inhale. When the blue circle contracts, breathe out. You can also set holding phases between inhaling and exhaling.

    Osciloscope Type Both
    This is a combination of the graph to the left and the breathing aid to the right \. You can see the measured values while following the breathing aid.

    Biofeedback Snake The Biofeedback Snake is also available as module.

    Procedure in the archive
    The colored background represents the SRC per minute (green = relaxed state / little SCR, yellow = excited state / medium SCR)

    33. Creation of a procedure

    1. Tap on the plus icon to create a new procedure.
    2. Give the procedure a name (here “Example Procedure”).
    You can simply accept all other default settings for this example.
    3. Select the upper tab “Module” and tap on the button “Add module”.
    4. Select a bar graph module and tap the check mark. Here, too, you can accept the default settings.
    5. Then add an Oscilloscope and breath pacer module Here, too, you can accept the default settings.
    6. Your procedure should now look like this.
    7. If you want to change something at a later date on one of the modules, you can swipe the corresponding module to the left and tap on the blue pencil symbol. Otherwise you can now tap the tick at the top right.
    8. Start the procedure by tapping the play button. Have fun!

    34. Meditations

    You can also choose one of our guided meditations as a procedure. The breathing meditation is already included in the eSense app.

    We will also offer more meditations shortly as new free cloud procedures for users with account. The meditations thus offer you an easy way to train your awareness and attention and, at the same time, receive biofeedback.

    35. Own media (photos, videos and audios)

    You can use your own pictures in the picture module, your own videos in the video module or your own music or melodies in the audio module in the procedures.

    Android usually enables this without any further problems. As long as you allow the eSense app to access your files on your device, you can upload them to the eSense app.

    iOS is a bit more restrictive. As usual, you can use your pictures from your device in the iCloud for pictures and videos.

    For audio files you need iTunes (or an alternative such as “CopyTrans Manager”). This is where your music or melody must be. You can find your music in iTunes (or CopyTrans Manager) under the tab “My Sound” and insert it into your procedures.

    We have a detailed video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A_CRbmBeBBc where we show all the steps.

    On iOS the power saving mode must also be deactivated, otherwise the videos in the procedures cannot be played.

    36. General settings

    Feedback direction
    Select the direction in which you want the feedback to react to. It can respond either to an increase or decrease in the measured values. The values increase when inhaled and decrease when exhaled. So, choose which breathing phase you prefer to occupy with positive feedback.

    Reaction time
    Set how sensitive the feedback should be to fluctuations. The default setting is “Short”, which allows feedback to respond quickly to changes in readings. For longer measurements we recommend “Medium” or “Long”, then the reaction time will be slightly delayed and the eSense will no longer react to every small change of the measured values.

    Music Feedback
    If the value moves in the unwanted direction (e.g., lower values), the music will become quieter or change its speed depending on the type of feedback you choose.

    Music preview
    Tap the Play button to listen to the selected song.

    Choose Music
    You can use the default or your own music.

    Music feedback type
    You can optionally choose between music start/stop, volume feedback or playback rate feedback. Note: For iOS are the options restricted.

    Tone Feedback
    In the background, you can hear sounds from other apps.

    Choose tone type
    You can choose between single or continuous tones.

    Auto Mode
    When this is activated, the range in which the sound changes is automatically adjusted. The minimum and maximum values of the set time window are automatically used for the lower and upper limits of the following interval.

    Value range from-to
    (Not visible when auto mode is enabled)
    You can set the area in which the feedback is active. We recommend selecting the range wide at the beginning and to set it smaller over time if necessary. Alternatively, you can use the automatic mode.

    Auto correction time frame
    (Only visible when auto mode is enabled)
    You can specify the time window in which the automatic mode adjusts itself each time.

    Musical instrument
    You can choose from various preset instruments.

    Interval
    Set an interval for the tone feedback.

    Tactile Feedback
    Your device will vibrate to provide feedback. Only smartphones support this feature, tablets do not have a vibration motor.

    Tactile feedback direction
    Decide whether decreasing (“Decrease”) or increasing (“Increase”) tactile feedback values should be considered a success.

    Smart bulb feedback
    The light bulb changes its color depending on the values.

    Choose a bulb
    Choose between Magic Blue, Magic Blue V2 or Phillips Hue.Connection test
    With this option, the bulb changes color if the connection is successful.

    Connection test
    With this option, the Magic Blue changes color if the connection is successful.

    Breath Pacer
    If activated, a breathing aid is displayed during the measurement.

    Breath pacer type
    You can choose between line and sphere.

    Enable audio tone
    Tones can also be added as auditory breathing aids.

    Inhale time / exhale time
    Select the seconds for each inhalation breath and exhalation breath to display the breathing aid.

    Hold before inhale / exhale
    Select the seconds between inhalation and exhalation breaths.

    background image
    You can choose a background image for the breathing aid.

    Inhale color / exhale color
    Select the color for each inhalation and exhalation stroke of the bar or ball.

    Video
    Choice: In the dropdown menu, you can select from included videos and “Select your own video”. You can select your own videos from your device.

    Video Feedback Type
    Effects can be applied to the video as feedback. Sie können zwischen Start/Stop, Schärfe, Helligkeit und Sättigung wählen. You can choose between Start/Stop, Sharpness, Brightness and Saturation. In addition, the automatic or manual mode for selecting the upper and lower limits is then available for sharpness, brightness, and saturation. In between is then interpolated. “No feedback” is also possible, then the video is simply played.

    General:

    Session name
    Enter the name of your session which will be displayed in the archive here.

    Session time length
    You can automatically time-limit normal measurements. They stop automatically after the set time.

    Time length X-Axis
    You can set the time displayed on the X-axis of the oscilloscope. We recommend 90 seconds.

    Decimal separator
    You can choose between comma or dot.

    Survey after recording
    Here you can activate/deactivate the survey (position, electrode type, mood, notes) after each measurement.

    Markers
    You can define markers by tapping the button. These are the markers you can set during a measurement. (See also ‘Set Marker’ in Landscape mode of the general view above).

    Show tutorial
    You can watch the tutorial again at any time from the first start of the app.

    Chart settings
    You can change the colors of the graph and the oscilloscope in the general view.

    Chart axis color
    You can change the color of the chart axis in the main view.

    Chart line color
    You can change the color of the chart line in the main view.

    Oscilloscope background 1&2
    You can change the background color of the oscilloscope in the main view.

    Smoothing of oscilloscope curve
    You can adjust the smoothing of the curve in the oscilloscope between 1 (hardly) and 10 (very strong).

    Reset to standard colors
    You can restore the default colors for the graph at any time.

    Arrow raise / lower color
    You can also disable the arrow in the main view.Show arrow
    You can also disable the arrow in the main view.

    Backup & Restore
    You can export and import your procedures and measurements. More about this in our FAQ

    Demo Mode
    A saved measurement is played back automatically. A real sensor is not needed.


    Real time streaming to eSense Web App
    This allows you to stream the data live to the eSense Web App. More information in the Account and Cloud section.

    37. In App Purchases

    In-App Purchases
    Additional to the option to use your own music or videos in the eSense App you can also purchase additional music or videos. We regularly extend the offer.

    38. Archive (overview)

    The app also contains an archive, in which you can save your measurements and export them as well. You can watch those in detail again, compare them to each other and export them individual or all together (as ZIP file).

    Recordings
    Here you can see your measurements listed. You can view a single measurement by tapping on it.

    If you click on the clipboard symbol at the top right, you can mark one, several or all measurements. You can then export, analyze or delete the exported measurement (s).

    On the filter symbol you can choose whether you want to sort the measurements by name, date, length in ascending or descending order.

    If you want to delete a single measurement from this list, you can also tap on the trash can symbol to the right of the measurement.

    Analyze
    Here all measurements are listed according to the following factors:

    Time, Average Session RA, Breath depth RA, Average breath per minute.

    With this, you can recognize trends over time and over several measurements (if, for example, your % of SCR of Session decreases by regular training, you can see this here immediately).

    39. Archive (single view)

    Export data

    Thanks to our export functions at the bottom of a recording, you can export the recordings in PDF or .csv format with all common apps (e.g. send via Messenger, WhatsApp, e-mail, etc.) or simply save them on your phone or in your cloud.

    The data are exported as a.csv-file (comma separated values). This format can be opened with Microsoft Excel or Open Office Calc (for free).

    If you like to work with Google, Google Sheets can be an alternative to Excel for you. You can open your exported .csv-files, visualize and access them via the cloud easily from several devices. Google Sheets has almost the same functions and interface as Excel.

    Note: We have also summarized more detailed information on CSV export and processing your data in an extra article on streaming and analyzing eSense data.

    Breath per minute and Coherence of breathing
    You can see here also the Breath per minute and the coherence of breathing of the your measurement. This pie chart is the same as the one you see after the measurement. You can get more information about the regularity in the chapter ‘Explanation of the individual measured values’ in this manual.

    In Excel™ or Google Sheets™

    Notice: If you open the .csv-file with Excel™ (or Google Sheets™) and your values make no sense, then there is usually a different set language in the eSense App and Excel™ and Sheets™.

    Note: We have also summarized more detailed information on CSV export and processing your data in an extra article on streaming and analyzing eSense data.

    Exported data in Excel

    40. Marker feature

    You can also set markers while you make measurements. For example, if you have a regular biofeedback exercise which involves breathing calmly at a specific point, you can set a marker in that moment when you breathe calmly. Later in the exported data, you can see the moment where you had breathed calmly. The marker feature comes in handy when you are making longer measurements with several actions.

    The markers can be displayed well in Excel:

    Exported measurement in Excel with markers

    41. Compatible Android and iOS devices

    General

    Note for all eSense:
    We recommend using a tablet instead of a smartphone due to the better display.

    If you don’t have a device yet and/or want to buy an extra device for the eSense, we recommend depending on your taste either

    or

    According to our research, these options offer enough power for the eSense app, will remain upgradeable to the upcoming Android and iOS versions for some time, and are still reasonably priced. The Android devices also still have a normal 3.5mm jack input and do not require an adapter for the eSense.

    Starting from the iPad 10th generation (2022), the iPad Pro 3rd generation (2018), the iPad Air 4th generation (2020), and the iPad mini 6th generation (2021), iPads no longer have a 3.5mm headphone jack. From these models onward, you will need an adapter for the eSense. More information can be found in the general notice below under iOS.

    iOS devices compatible with the eSense

    • All iOS devices from version 15 or higher, which are (in excerpts):
    • Apple® iPhone® 6S, iPhone® SE/SE 2, iPhone® 7/7+, iPhone® 8/8+, iPhone® X, iPhone® XR, iPhone® XS, iPhone® 11/11 Pro, iPhone® 12/12 Pro, iPhone® 13/13 Pro, iPhone® 14/14 Pro, iPhone® 15/15 Pro
    • Apple® iPad® 5th generation or newer, including all iPad Mini from 4th generation and iPad Air from 2nd generation or newer
    • Apple® iPad® Pro from 1st generation or newer

    General note:
    Some newer iOS devices without the classic 3.5mm headphone jack, but with a Lightning or USB-C port, also work perfectly with the eSense. For this, you’ll need either the original Apple USB-C adapter (https://amzn.to/41zD2Gd) or the original Apple Lightning to 3.5mm adapter (https://www.mediamarkt.de/de/product/_apple-mmx62zm-a-2179668.html) – which is optionally included with the eSense.

    Alternatively, you can use any other adapter with a DAC chip. We recommend this adapter on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2SnAUA1.

    We tested 11 alternative Lightning adapters from third-party vendors – only two of them worked. Therefore, we recommend either the original Apple Lightning adapter (https://www.mediamarkt.de/de/product/_apple-mmx62zm-a-2179668.html) or this compatible Lightning-to-3.5mm adapter, which we have successfully used with the eSense and also offer in our shop: Compatible Apple Lightning to 3.5mm adapter https://mindfield-shop.com/en/product/compatible-apple-lightning-to-3-5mm-adapter.

    Additional note Siri:
    Please note that Siri must NOT be activated if you want to perform a measurement with the eSense (this applies to all eSense sensors). A running measurement can otherwise be disturbed and your measurement values falsified. You must disable Siri YOURSELF (our app cannot do this automatically due to Apple’s settings).
    To disable Siri go to Settings -> (General ->) Siri and disable Siri (exact steps may vary depending on iOS version).

    Note for iOS devices and the eSense Pulse:
    Your iOS device must support Bluetooth® 4.0 LE (sometimes referred to as Bluetooth® Low Energy or BLE ), which is supported from iOS 5 and up.

    Note for iOS 7 and later and the eSense Respiration, Skin Response, and Temperature:
    The eSense works through the microphone input. For iOS 7 and above, you must explicitly allow the eSense app to use the microphone input, otherwise the eSense will not work. During the installation you will be asked for this, you have to answer there with “Yes” or “Allow”. After installation, you can set this manually. Allow access to the microphone input in the system settings of your iOS device under Settings -> Privacy -> Microphone

    Lightning to 3.5mm headphone jack adapter (is included with every Apple device,
    which no longer has a 3.5mm headphone jack, e.g. the iPhone X)

    Android devices that are compatible with the eSense

    Important note about Android devices for the eSense Pulse:
    Your Android device must support Bluetooth® 4.0 LE (sometimes called Bluetooth® Low Energy or BLE ), which is supported from Android version 4.3 (mid-2013). But we recommend Android version 4.4 and higher anyway. Therefore, the eSense Pulse generally works with most current Android devices.

    Important note about Android devices for the eSense Respiration, Skin Response and Temperature:
    Your Android device needs a 3.5 mm connector (standard headphones) for external headsets/microphones. On most devices this is present and often integrated with the headphone jack. If no such microphone input is present, such as on the Google Nexus 7, you cannot use the eSense! (All iOS devices listed above have the port).

    Alternatively, you can use any other adapter with a DAC chip. We recommend this adapter on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2SnAUA1.

    Below are some Android devices that we have tested with the eSense Pulse, Respiration, Skin Response and Temperature and which work fine (whitelist). (Please note that this is only a very small sample and that the vast majority of devices worldwide work with the Mindfield eSense).

    The following Android devices are NOT compatible with eSense Respiration, Skin Response and Temperature (blacklist). This list is not necessarily exhaustive. If you are not sure if your device is compatible, check if the microphone input is present as described above!

    • All tablets from Lenovo (For the eSense Skin Response, Temperature and Respiration. The microphone input distorts the signal from the eSense. With the eSense Pulse they work)
    • Samsung Galaxy A40 (Problems with the signal level of the eSense Skin Response and Temperature. Only the Respiration works. Pulse also works because it does not require a 3.5mm jack)

    It is possible that these devices will work after all if you use the devices’ USB-C port instead. You can use a USB-C to 3.5 mm jack adapter for this purpose: https://amzn.to/2SnAUA1.

    42. Adapter for Android and Apple devices

    Some newer Android and iOS (Apple) devices without the classic 3.5mm headphone jack and with the newer Lightning / USB-C connector also work perfectly with the eSense.

    Please follow this order when using the adapter:

    1. Plug the adapter into your smartphone/tablet.
    2. Connect the eSense to the adapter.
    3. Start the eSense app.

    If the adapter with eSense is only plugged in after the app is already running and in Free Training mode (even if no training has started yet), connection issues may occur.

    If the eSense is not recognized and the signal fluctuates erratically, please close the eSense app completely and restart it. This should resolve the issue.

    Apple

    You either need an original Apple USB-C (https://amzn.to/41zD2Gd) or original Apple Lightning (https://www.mediamarkt.de/de/product/_apple-mmx62zm-a-2179668.html) to 3.5 mm connection adapter (not included in the scope of delivery of the eSense).

    Lightning to 3.5 mm Headphone Jack Adapter (which no longer
    has a 3.5mm headphone jack, e.g. the iPhone X.)

    Android & Apple

    Alternatively, you also can use any other adapter with a DAC chip. We recommend this adapter on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2SnAUA1

    DAC Adapter with an Android device

    An adapter is also only needed, if at all, for the eSense Skin Response, eSense Temperature and eSense Respiration (as these eSenses have a 3.5mm headphone jack). An adapter is never needed for the eSense Pulse and eSense Muscle (as these connect to the device wirelessly via Bluetooth®).

    General note:
    Some newer iOS devices without the classic 3.5mm headphone jack, but with a Lightning or USB-C port, also work perfectly with the eSense. For this, you’ll need either the original Apple USB-C adapter (https://amzn.to/41zD2Gd) or the original Apple Lightning to 3.5mm adapter (https://www.mediamarkt.de/de/product/_apple-mmx62zm-a-2179668.html) – which is optionally included with the eSense.

    Alternatively, you can use any other adapter with a DAC chip. We recommend this adapter on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2SnAUA1.

    We tested 11 alternative Lightning adapters from third-party vendors – only two of them worked. Therefore, we recommend either the original Apple Lightning adapter (https://www.mediamarkt.de/de/product/_apple-mmx62zm-a-2179668.html) or this compatible Lightning-to-3.5mm adapter, which we have successfully used with the eSense and also offer in our shop: Compatible Apple Lightning to 3.5mm adapter https://mindfield-shop.com/en/product/compatible-apple-lightning-to-3-5mm-adapter.

    43. eSense Web App

    In addition to the app, we have also developed an eSense web app that mirrors and supplements the app. You can use this with the account and plans mentioned above.

    You can analyze your recorded data (with the basic plan) or even transfer your data to a PC in real time (live streaming with the premium plan).

    The main advantage of this is that you can see the graph even better with a large screen and enlarge individual areas and have more advanced analyze features.

    eSense Web App with a live measurement with the eSense Pulse
    eSense Web App with a live measurement with the eSense Muscle

    With the eSense Web App, you can also view measurements from several and different eSense simultaneously and in real time, which allows a professional trainer client to design the workflow.

    You can find the web app at https://esense.live. There you can login with the same account (username and password) as for the eSense app. For more information on the eSense Web App and its capabilities, see also our article on streaming eSense data.

    Archive of the eSense Muscle in the eSense Web App

    The eSense app works with all our eSense except the eSense EEGenius.

    44. Supervisor Guide

    Subscribe to a plan

    You must have activated a plan. You can book this in our mobile app (on Android and iOS), under Profile -> Plans.

    For sharing your measurments with a supervisor as client, the Basic Plan is sufficient (because the measurements are already uploaded to the cloud, so your supervisor can access your uploaded measurements). We also have an overview of different trainer-client scenarios here: https://mindfield.de/esense-app-fur-den-professionellen-anwender/

    For the live streaming and custom live view, the client needs to have the Premium plan activated.

    Client side

    Next you need to login to our Web App at https://esense.live/

    eSense Web App login

    In order to share your measurements with a supervisor you need to have the Basic plan activated (as described in the first step above)

    Basic Plan active

    In the web app, you must enter the ID of your supervisor (with whom you want to share your measurements). For data protection reasons, this is unfortunately only possible in this way. This means that your desired supervisor must provide you with the ID and you must enter it in the following place and thus allow the supervisor access:

    Allowed supervisors

    (For privacy reasons, supervisor mediators are now shown with their initials only. The e-mail is no longer displayed, only the ID).

    Trainer side

    First you need to login to our Web App at https://esense.live/

    eSense Web App login

    You must be a registered Supervisor. You can buy the Supervisor Plan here:

    Supervisor enabled

    In order to work with your client(s), the client(s) needs to

    • have the Basic plan
    • Be a supervisor yourself

    If you want to use the live streaming together with clients, the clients also need a stable internet connection.

    You can add clients by selecting them from the drop-down list. As the clients have previously explicitly granted you access, you should see your clients in the drop-down list.

    Add clients

    Archive

    As Supervisor you can see, analysis and compare saved measurements of your clients.

    Click on “Archive” -> “Other user” in the menu. Type in the email address of the client whose measurements you want to load and click on the “Search for id/email” Button

    Analysis of a single measurement
    Analysis and comparison of several measurements

    Activate streaming to esense.live in the eSense mobile app

    If you are a supervisor, you can activate real-time data transmission to eSense Web App (esense.live) in the eSense app settings.

    Custom Live View (Live Streaming)

    For the custom live view and live streaming, you need to have the Premium Plan activated (as described in the first step above).

    Klick on “Charts” -> “Custom live view” in the menu. Select the client from the drop-down menu, select the Sensor at “Type” and click on “Add custom Chart”.

    Custom live view with 1 client and 2 sensors

    You can do this with several different sensors from the same user as well as see the measurements from several users at the same time.

    You could for example stream the Skin Response and Pulse from one client when the client does a combined measurement with the Skin Response and Pulse.

    But you also could have 2 or more clients all using an eSense Pulse at the same time and stream them next to each other (f.i. in a group session that you do online with several clients in different places)

    45. Account and Cloud

    You can register your own, free account for the eSense app and book plans. You can also benefit from free, regularly added procedures without booking a plan. Thus, we recommend using the app with an account. With the plans you can mainly use the cloud and its functions and get also access to the eSense web app at https://esense.live.

    With the Basic Plan, you can save your measurements locally and online in the cloud and thus access your measurements from all devices and from anywhere. You also get access to the eSense web app.

    The Premium Plan includes all functions of the Basis Plan. In addition to your measurements, you can also save your custom procedures online in the cloud and thus access your procedures from all devices. (Attention: Technical limitations from Apple unfortunately do not allow the upload (and thus the synchronization) of audio files. The synchronization of picture and video files is possible, however). You can buy the Premium Plan here: https://mindfield-shop.com/en/product/premium-plan-for-esense-app-for-all-esense-sensors-annually/

    There is also the Supervisor Plan. As a professional or commercial biofeedback trainer, you can use it to create individual procedures for your clients and share them with them via the cloud. You can buy the Supervisor Plan here: https://mindfield-shop.com/en/product/esense-supervisor-account-monthly-subscription-for-esense-app-and-esense-live

    You can also share your measurements with other users. You also have the option of transferring your data to the eSense web app in real time. To do this, activate “Real-time data transfer to eSense Web App” at the bottom of the settings.

    These plans can be used, among other things, to design a trainer’s client’s workflow. You can find an overview of the account and the cloud in our account comparison article.

    You can book the plans in our app in the profile tab:

    46. Account Comparison

    Note: Scroll the table left or right on mobile devices

    ACCOUNT TYPE:SUPERVISORPREMIUM PLANBASIS PLANWITHOUT PLAN
    Download of a procedure from the cloud
    Upload of a procedure to the cloud1)
    Upload of a measurement to the cloud✅ ✅ ✅ 
    Upload of a procedure (as record) to the cloud
    Sharing of a procedure (over the cloud) 2)
    Sharing of a procedure (as record)3)3)
    Sharing of a measurement (as record)3)3)
    Join a group
    Create a group
    Add other users to a group
    Stream data to the eSense dashboard
    1) Sharing with other users or groups not possible
    2) Sharing with other users or groups possible
    3) Sharing with other users possible

    Example cases for the different accounts

    SUPERVISOR

    The professional or commercial biofeedback trainer has a SUPERVISOR account so that he can create individual procedures for his clients and share them with them via the cloud. They can also create different groups and add their clients to them individually. This allows them to monitor and analyze their clients’ measurements over a longer period of time.

    You can buy the Supervisor Plan here: https://mindfield-shop.com/en/product/esense-supervisor-account-monthly-subscription-for-esense-app-and-esense-live/

    PREMIUM PLAN

    The client who wants to work with a (professional) trainer and have access to all functions has a PREMIUM PLAN. This allows the client to share their recordings (both free measurements and procedures) with the trainer and other users. They can also upload their own procedures to the cloud and have them analyzed or adapted by the SUPERVISOR (trainer).

    BASIS PLAN

    The client who wants to work with a (professional) trainer needs at least this account so that he can share his recordings with the trainer (SUPERVISOR).

    WITHOUT PLAN

    Anyone who simply wants to get a taste of the app does not need to join a plan to test its functionality.

    Example cases for the synchronization of measurements between accounts with different plans

    Without account, without plan (and offline)

    All measurements are saved locally on the device. There is no synchronization with the cloud as there is no associated account.

    Users can only access their measurements on the device on which they were carried out. You can find the measurements in the archive under the Recordings tab.

    With account, without plan

    The measurements are linked to the user’s account but are not synchronized with the cloud. All measurements that are linked to the user’s account are displayed in the archive.

    The measurements can only be accessed if the user is logged into the account on the device on which the measurements were taken. You can find the measurements in the archive under the Recordings tab.

    With account, with basic or premium plan

    All measurements are linked to the user’s account and are synchronized with the cloud.

    All synchronized measurements that are linked to the user’s account are displayed in the archive. To synchronize old measurements that were created on the device before a plan was purchased with the cloud, you can select the “Synchronize with the cloud” button in the “Local session, performed without account” tab in the archive. These measurements are then assigned to the other measurements and disappear from this tab.

    Activate streaming to esense.live in the eSense mobile app

    If you are a supervisor, you can activate real-time data transmission to eSense Web App (esense.live) in the eSense app settings.

    47. Groups

    The accounts enable you to create your own groups or to join other groups. This allows you to share your recordings with your friends. Or you can work with a trainer as a client since you can share your recordings with the trainer.

    Create a group

    Tap on the plus symbol to create a group.

    Edit a group

    Tap on the 3 dots next to the group name You can then (if authorized) view and remove the members of the group or add new members.
    You can also change the title of the group or delete the group.

    48. Privacy policy

    The eSense App does not collect any personal data, such as name, gender, date of birth, etc.. Each recording of measurement data is done under a general prefix such as “measurement”,

    supplemented by with the eSense sensor used, the current date and time of the measurement. The recorded measurement data cannot therefore be assigned to any person.

    The prefix of a recording, e.g. “measurement”, can be changed by the user in the settings and used for the assignment to a person. Users can decide whether to change this prefix to their name, for example. Then each measurement and also each CSV file exported from it contains the name of the user in the file name.

    Access rights within the eSense App

    • Microphone input: Access to the microphone input is required to receive measurement data from the eSense sensor at all. This access is mandatory.
    • Access to media library: Access to photos, music, and videos is only required if you want to use your own photos, music, and/or videos in the eSense App. The eSense app should be used as feedback. It is also possible to use only the by the app supplied media.
    • Access to the location: The access to the location (activation of GPS) is only required for the Bluetooth® connection to the Magic Blue bulb (optionally available) or the eSense Pulse. This is mandatory under Android and lies outside the possibilities of the publisher of the eSense App. No standard data is collected, the standard function is not used.
    • Access to Bluetooth®: If the eSense app is used with the Magic Blue smart bulb to provide biofeedback by modifying the color and brightness of the light bulb, it needs to be connected via Bluetooth® within the app. To do this, the Bluetooth® function is used. For the eSense Pulse Sensor, Bluetooth® is also required as it transmits the data via Bluetooth®.

    Transmission of anonymous usage data and crash reports

    In order to improve the technical stability of the eSense App and the detection of code errors, we use the Sentry service. Sentry serves these purposes alone and does not evaluate any data for advertising purposes. The transmission takes place anonymously and only with an existing internet connection.

    Processed data

    Usage data, metadata (device ID, device data, IP address).

    Special protective measures: IP masking, immediate deletion.

    External Functional Software Disclosure: Functional Software Inc., Sentry, 132 Hawthorne Street, San Francisco, California 94107, USA.

    Privacy Policy: https://sentry.io/privacy/.

    Processing in third countries: USA

    Warranty for processing in third countries: Privacy Shield, https://www.privacyshield.gov/participant?id=a2zt0000000TNDzAAO&status=Active.

    Deletion of the data: Information on the device or time of error is collected anonymously and is not used for personal purposes and then deleted.

    Medical information

    The Mindfield eSense sensors are not medical devices and may therefore only be used to reduce stress.

    If you suffer from an illness, do not carry out any treatment on your own and always consult a therapist.

    Warranty by the manufacturer The statutory warranty obligations apply to all our products. If you have any problems with our products, please contact us directly. See the “Contact” section of this manual.