Exploring the Impact of the Relax Game on Stress Reduction and Cognitive Performance: A Comprehensive Study
Abstract
This study investigates the efficacy of the Relax Game, a gamified mobile application combining mindfulness, breathing exercises, and progress tracking, in reducing stress and enhancing cognitive performance. A randomized controlled trial involving 100 participants (aged 18–60) compared the experimental group using the Relax Game for 20 minutes daily over four weeks against a control group practicing traditional relaxation techniques. Assessments included the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), cognitive tasks (Stroop test, memory recall), and physiological markers (cortisol levels, heart rate variability). Results indicated significant stress reduction (p < 0.01), improved cognitive scores (p < 0.05), and enhanced HRV in the experimental group.