Stress and anxiety affects just about everyone at some point, and some are effected chronically. A few key tools I have been pairing together over the last couple of months for great affect at managing stress and anxiety is vibrational devices and meditation.

The Sensate device, which looks like a nicely shaped pebble, is one such tool that combines the benefits of vibration and sounds or playlist to integrate into a mediation practice.

With the key drawcard of the Sensate being touted as a 10 minute per day solution to reducing stress, anxiety levels and improving sleep, I had to test the claims. It targets the vagus nerve, much like breathwork, humming, body immersion in a cold plunge, and exercise.

In this Sensate review, we pull apart the features of Sensate, how effective it is for improving sleep and managing anxiety and stress, whether the Sensate is worth the price and what you get when you buy the Sensate.

What Is Sensate?

With my ear to the ground with new wellness products like this, I have seen a bourgeoning of devices that focus on simple designs and seemingly basic approaches to improving overall wellbeing like vibration and sounds.

The Sensate is exactly that, a small pebble shaped ‘wearable’ device that can be placed on the body, offering a combination of vibrations, sounds and playlists which are scientifically proven to help promote positive response for the nervous system, thereby reducing stress levels and improving sleep.

Having recently tried the Apollo Neuro strap too, I was curious about how similar the Sensate device is.

The Sensate is a palm sized device that rests on the chest, which I find to be calming in itself, and using the dedicated Sensate App, allows you to select a meditation playlist between 10 to 30 minutes long.

What always impresses me with devices like the Sensate, is that they are such a positive alternative to pharmaceuticals, or something that can be used in conjunction to this to positively affect mood and mental health through meditative practice.

How Does Sensate Work?

The best way I can describe the Sensate is that it is like a guided meditation using vibration and sounds as the guide. The Sensate takes you on a meditative journey and uses the benefits of vibration to affect the nervous system, promoting parasympathetic rest and recovery state.

From a science based perspective, the Sensate has the effect of targeting the Vagus Nerve, which is responsible for regulating the fight or flight stress response. The Sensate device takes advantage of the phenomenon of ‘bone conduction’.

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Being placed on the chest, the vibrations and sounds produced during the Sensate meditation sessions resonate signals through the chest and activate the vagus nerve, encouraging rest and relaxation.

The Sensate device targets stress. With our primal instincts of stress being chronically switched on in so many people through work stress, relationship stress, environmental stress and poor lifestyle choices, the result is poor sleep quality and a negative nervous state.

“The vagus nerve controls how your body reacts to stress, so toning this important nerve can improve your digestion, heart health, and breathing rate. The vagus nerve regulates sympathetic and parasympathetic responses. The sympathetic nervous system drives the "fight or flight" response in stressful situations, while the parasympathetic nervous system manages our “rest and digest” state.”

From the pilot study conducted on the Sensate device with 25 subjects, there were three key findings that make the Sensate device a worthy investment:

Perceived stress was reduced from high moderate to low moderate levels.
Sleep quality improved, including an increase of more than an hour of sleep to a full seven hours and a decrease in the time required to fall asleep; from more than an hour to less than 30 minutes.
State anxiety was reduced from high to low levels and trait anxiety reduced from high to moderate levels

In my personal opinion, the way the Sensate device works is by quieting the mind. The gentle vibrations just seem so effective at providing somewhat of a distraction to the busy mind and is really what seems to work for me in producing that relaxation response.

When feeling anxious, I would generally aim for a 10-20 minute breathwork and meditation session, and the addition of the Sensate device seems to allow me to ‘drop into’ the meditation a lot faster. The Sensate device is like your personal “om” machine.

Is Sensate device worth it?

Let’s see, I think a better question would be, “how valuable is quality sleep and good mental state?”.

The Sensate device is anywhere between $499 to $579AUD. Or, you can purchase multiple Sensate devices for a cost saving.

The most basic price point of $499AUD gets you just the device, which still allows for app access, or you can spend another $80 and receive the 1 year subscription to the Sensate Plus.

The Sensate device comes standard with 17 different free sessions (including 13 unique sessions and 4 extended versions), while the Sensate Plus price affords you one-year access to two new sessions every month, featuring guest artists, 4D compositions, and more.

If we compare the Sensate device to other alternatives for accessing quality sleep and stress reductions, yes, it is most definitely worth the price. I personally got in a bad habit of opting for a multitude of supplements for sleep, which got extremely expensive. While this is all part and parcel of experimenting with what works, the Sensate offers a device that does not require additional resupply like supplements, that promotes quality sleep and improves HRV.

Compared to a meditation apps, the Sensate can seem relatively expensive. Having tried a handful of the good meditation apps like Headspace, Waking Up and Mindfulness, which generally cost between $90 to $200 for an annual subscription, the Sensate device is a bit more of an initial investment than a guided meditation subscription, but does not require an ongoing cost (unless you want the Sensate Plus subscription).

I like to break these things down to a cost per week basis over a 5 year period (assuming the Sensate lasts the distance). With this calculation, if I’m still using the Sensate by then, it will have cost me a measly $1.91 per week for an effective approach at reducing stress, anxiety and hacking sleep naturally.

Sensate Pros and Cons

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Sensate User Experience

The Sensate device is made to be user friendly. You literally press one button to turn it on. After downloading the Sensate App, you pair it with the app and press ‘Start Session’ on your phone.

Much like the Apollo Neuro strap, you can choose your level of vibration intensity and choose a specific session for your goals. It will work through a combination of vibrations with tapping, humming and other haptics to target the nervous system.

What I really noticed is just how much the vibrations reverberate from the chest throughout the whole body. It produces a whole body sensation when you really wind down and shift to a good level of body awareness.

Benefits of Using Sensate

The Sensate device is innovative, but not ground-breaking. It essentially uses the same concepts as humming, singing, breathwork and mantras to access systems that control the stress response.

The technology harnesses the power of infrasound-based soundwaves to influence the Autonomic Nervous System, particularly targeting the vagus nerve. By using soundwaves to create resonant frequency vibrations within the human body, Sensate generates a passive biofeedback response, promoting relaxation and stress reduction.

Here are detailed benefits and mechanisms of the Sensate device:

Safe and Statistically Insignificant Adverse Reactions: The use of soundwave toning, which includes infrasound-based technology, is deemed very safe, with negligible potential for adverse reactions. This aspect makes Sensate a low-risk and non-invasive tool for stress relief and anxiety management.
Biofeedback Response and Autonomic Nervous System Regulation: The device leverages soundwaves to create a passive biofeedback response within the Autonomic Nervous System. Specifically, it focuses on the vagus nerve, which is a significant component of the parasympathetic nervous system. By targeting this system, Sensate assists in regulating heart rate variability (HRV) and increasing stress resilience. This can contribute to relaxation, reducing anxiety, and potentially improving overall well-being.
Universal and Profound Impact of Sound: Sound, being a universal and omnipresent force, has a profound impact on human beings. It is a fundamental part of our environment, affecting various senses, including tactile physical perception and influencing over 30 senses, as suggested by some neurologists.
Utilisation of Infrasound Technology: The use of infrasound technology replicates the physiological impact of various vocal exercises practiced across cultures, such as chanting, mantra, and vocal sounding. These techniques have shown to relax the parasympathetic nervous system, particularly the vagus nerve, aiding in stress reduction and promoting longevity-related benefits.
Relief for Mental Health Issues: Sensate has been reported to provide relief for mental health issues associated with stress, including anxiety, panic attacks, and depression. By functioning as a biohacking meditation tool, it aids in calming the mind and body, offering an alternative or complementary approach to managing such conditions.
Digital Wearable for Stress Relief: Sensate is a wearable anxiety and stress relief device with an accompanying app that integrates mindfulness techniques, breathing exercises, and relaxation methods. This combination of technologies and practices offers users a comprehensive tool for managing stress in their daily lives.
Focus on Consumer Well-being: Sensate is designed for consumer use, emphasizing non-medical applications and promoting stress relief rather than medical treatment. Its focus on stress management aligns with the growing trend of self-care and personal well-being enhancement.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Sensate device is an innovative wearable designed to help reduce stress and enhance sleep quality by stimulating the vagus nerve, a critical component of the parasympathetic nervous system. This nerve plays a key role in regulating various bodily functions, including heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate, all of which are crucial for maintaining a state of relaxation and overall well-being.
Using a combination of low-frequency vibrations and sound therapy, Sensate targets the vagus nerve to activate the body’s natural relaxation response. When placed on the chest, the device emits gentle vibrations that resonate with the vagus nerve, encouraging the body to shift from a state of stress to one of calm. This process, known as vagus nerve stimulation, has been shown to effectively reduce anxiety, lower stress levels, and promote a sense of tranquility.
In addition to vibrations, Sensate pairs with an app that delivers soundscapes designed to enhance the relaxation experience. These soundscapes, which may include calming music, nature sounds, and guided meditations, work synergistically with the vibrations to deepen the state of relaxation and make it easier to achieve restorative sleep. The combination of auditory and tactile stimulation helps users disconnect from daily stressors, making it easier to unwind and prepare for a restful night’s sleep.
Regular use of the Sensate device can lead to long-term benefits for both mental and physical health. By consistently engaging the vagus nerve, users may experience improved mood, reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, better emotional regulation, and enhanced resilience to stress. Moreover, the improved quality of sleep achieved through regular use can contribute to better overall health, increased energy levels, and improved cognitive function.
The Sensate device is user-friendly and portable, making it easy to incorporate into daily routines. Whether used during a break at work, before bedtime, or during a meditation session, Sensate provides a convenient and effective way to manage stress and improve sleep without the need for medication or intensive therapy. This accessibility makes it a valuable tool for anyone looking to enhance their well-being in a natural and holistic manner.
It offers a combination of vibrations, sounds, and playlists, designed to promote a positive response in the nervous system for stress reduction and improved sleep.
Vibrations emitted by Sensate are finely tuned to resonate with the vagus nerve, a critical part of the autonomic nervous system that influences heart rate, digestion, and mood. By stimulating this nerve, the device helps shift the body from a state of sympathetic dominance (fight or flight) to parasympathetic dominance (rest and digest). This transition is crucial for reducing the physiological effects of stress and fostering a state of calm and relaxation.
Accompanying the vibrations are carefully designed soundscapes and playlists accessible through the Sensate app. These auditory elements include soothing music, nature sounds, and guided meditations that complement the vibrations to enhance the overall relaxation experience. The sounds are scientifically engineered to synchronize with the body’s natural rhythms, promoting a deep sense of peace and well-being. Users can select different playlists based on their specific needs, whether they are looking to de-stress after a long day or prepare for a restful night’s sleep.
The holistic design of Sensate is grounded in scientific research on the benefits of vagus nerve stimulation and sound therapy. Studies have shown that activating the vagus nerve can reduce inflammation, improve heart rate variability, and enhance emotional regulation, all of which contribute to lower stress levels and better sleep. Similarly, sound therapy has been found to positively affect brain wave activity, helping to induce states of relaxation and improve overall sleep quality.
Sensate is highlighted for its unique approach using vibration and sound, offering an alternative or complement to traditional stress-relief methods.
One of the key advantages of Sensate is its ability to deliver immediate and tangible results. The gentle vibrations and soothing soundscapes work in harmony to activate the vagus nerve, promoting a rapid shift from a stress-induced state to one of calm and tranquility. This quick response can be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing acute stress or anxiety, providing them with an effective tool to manage their symptoms in real time. Additionally, the convenience of using Sensate anywhere and at any time makes it a practical option for on-the-go stress management, whether during a hectic workday, while traveling, or at home.
Sensate also serves as an excellent complement to traditional stress-relief methods. For those already practicing meditation, yoga, or other relaxation techniques, incorporating Sensate can enhance and deepen their existing routines. The device's ability to stimulate the vagus nerve can amplify the benefits of these practices, helping users achieve a more profound state of relaxation and mindfulness. Furthermore, Sensate's soundscapes and guided meditations can be used alongside traditional methods to create a multi-sensory experience that engages the mind and body, promoting a holistic approach to stress management.
Another unique aspect of Sensate is its potential to support long-term stress resilience and overall well-being. Regular use of the device can help train the body to more effectively manage stress and maintain a balanced state of mind. By consistently engaging the parasympathetic nervous system through vagus nerve stimulation, users can build resilience to everyday stressors and improve their emotional regulation over time. This long-term benefit sets Sensate apart from other stress-relief tools that may only provide temporary relief without addressing the underlying mechanisms of stress management.
Sensate’s comprehensive approach to stress reduction is designed to produce immediate and long-term benefits for mental wellness. By targeting the vagus nerve with its unique combination of vibrations and sound therapy, Sensate helps activate the body’s natural relaxation response. This physiological shift can lead to a noticeable decrease in stress levels, allowing users to manage daily stressors more effectively. The device’s calming influence helps users feel more centered and grounded, which can significantly improve their overall quality of life.
Improved sleep quality is another major benefit of using Sensate. Stress and anxiety are common culprits behind poor sleep, often leading to difficulties falling asleep, staying asleep, or achieving restful, restorative sleep. Sensate’s ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress can directly address these issues, making it easier for users to transition into sleep and maintain a healthy sleep cycle. Regular use of Sensate can help establish a more consistent sleep routine, leading to better sleep hygiene and overall improved physical health.
The calming effect induced by Sensate’s vibration and sound therapy extends beyond just stress and sleep. Consistent use of the device can enhance emotional regulation, helping users better manage their reactions to challenging situations. This improved emotional resilience can lead to greater mental clarity, focus, and productivity throughout the day. By creating a state of calm and balance, Sensate supports users in making more mindful decisions, fostering a positive mindset, and enhancing their overall mental wellness.
Furthermore, the benefits of Sensate are not limited to individual well-being but can also positively impact social interactions and relationships. When individuals are less stressed and more well-rested, they are better equipped to engage with others in a meaningful and compassionate way. Reduced stress levels can lead to improved communication, increased patience, and a more positive outlook, all of which contribute to healthier and more fulfilling relationships with family, friends, and colleagues.
Sensate’s portability and ease of use also make it a practical tool for integrating into daily life. Whether used during a short break at work, in the evening as part of a wind-down routine, or even while traveling, Sensate offers a flexible solution for managing stress and promoting relaxation. This adaptability ensures that users can consistently benefit from the device, regardless of their schedule or environment, making it a reliable companion for maintaining mental wellness on the go.
Pros include its calming effect, ease of use, and non-invasive design. Cons may include limited soundtracks and a higher price compared to some meditation apps.
The vagus nerve, also known as the tenth cranial nerve, is a fundamental component of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is often referred to as the "rest and digest" system. This system counterbalances the "fight or flight" responses governed by the sympathetic nervous system. The vagus nerve extends from the brainstem through the neck and into the chest and abdomen, innervating major organs such as the heart, lungs, and digestive tract. Its extensive reach and diverse functions make it integral to maintaining homeostasis and overall physiological balance.
One of the primary roles of the vagus nerve is to regulate the body's stress response. When activated, the vagus nerve promotes relaxation and reduces stress by slowing the heart rate, lowering blood pressure, and facilitating deeper, slower breathing. This activation helps counteract the body's stress-induced states, fostering a sense of calm and well-being. By engaging the vagus nerve, the body can more effectively recover from stressful situations, reducing the detrimental effects of chronic stress on mental and physical health.
In addition to managing stress responses, the vagus nerve plays a critical role in regulating heart rate. Through its connections to the heart, the vagus nerve can influence the heart's rhythm, promoting a slower and more regular heartbeat. This regulation is crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health and preventing conditions such as arrhythmias and hypertension. Heart rate variability (HRV), a measure of the variation in time between each heartbeat, is often used as an indicator of vagal tone and overall autonomic nervous system balance. Higher HRV is associated with better cardiovascular health, reduced stress levels, and improved emotional resilience.
The vagus nerve also significantly impacts the digestive system. It helps control the involuntary muscles involved in the process of digestion, such as those responsible for peristalsis, the wave-like contractions that move food through the digestive tract. Vagal stimulation promotes the secretion of digestive enzymes and bile, enhancing nutrient absorption and overall digestive efficiency. This regulatory function ensures that the body can efficiently process and assimilate nutrients, supporting overall health and vitality.
While technology offers innovative tools and methods to enhance meditation practices, it is important to recognize that it may not fully replicate the depth and richness of traditional meditation techniques. Traditional meditation, often rooted in ancient spiritual and cultural traditions, encompasses a wide range of practices that involve mindfulness, breath control, and mental focus. These practices have been refined over centuries and are designed to cultivate inner peace, self-awareness, and a profound sense of connection to the present moment.
One of the key benefits of traditional meditation techniques is their ability to foster a deep sense of mindfulness and self-awareness. These techniques encourage individuals to turn their attention inward, focusing on the breath, bodily sensations, or a specific mantra. This inward focus helps practitioners develop a heightened awareness of their thoughts, emotions, and physical states, leading to greater self-understanding and emotional regulation. While technology can provide guided meditations and reminders to practice mindfulness, the personal journey of self-discovery and inner peace that traditional meditation offers may not be fully replicable through digital means.
Traditional meditation also emphasizes the importance of discipline and consistency. Many traditional practices involve a commitment to daily meditation sessions, often at the same time each day, which helps build a routine and instill a sense of discipline. This regular practice can lead to long-term benefits such as increased focus, improved emotional stability, and a deeper connection to one's inner self. While meditation apps and devices can aid in establishing a routine, the intrinsic motivation and discipline cultivated through traditional methods are invaluable components of a sustained and meaningful meditation practice.
Additionally, traditional meditation often incorporates elements of spirituality and community. Many meditation practices are part of larger spiritual traditions that include rituals, teachings, and communal gatherings. These elements provide a sense of belonging and support, enriching the meditation experience and fostering a deeper connection to a broader spiritual or philosophical framework. Technology-based meditation tools, while convenient, may lack the communal and spiritual aspects that traditional practices offer, which can be crucial for some individuals' personal growth and sense of purpose.
Usage duration for devices such as Sensate can vary depending on individual needs and goals, but adhering to the recommended guidelines is crucial for maximizing their benefits. Consistent use allows the body and mind to become accustomed to the therapeutic effects of the device, enhancing its overall efficacy. Regular sessions, as suggested by the manufacturer, help establish a routine that integrates seamlessly into daily life, making it easier to maintain long-term use and reap the full spectrum of benefits offered by the device.
Following the device's guidelines ensures that users are receiving the appropriate amount of stimulation needed to activate the intended physiological responses. For instance, Sensate’s vibration and sound therapy are designed to stimulate the vagus nerve, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. Using the device consistently and for the recommended duration helps maintain the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is essential for managing stress levels, improving sleep quality, and fostering overall mental wellness. Skipping sessions or using the device sporadically can diminish its effectiveness and delay the achievement of desired outcomes.
Moreover, consistent use of the device helps build a habit, making it a regular part of one’s self-care routine. Developing a habit of regular use can lead to cumulative benefits, as the positive effects of each session build upon one another over time. This is particularly important for interventions targeting chronic issues such as stress and anxiety, where long-term, sustained efforts are necessary to achieve lasting improvements. Regular use also helps users become more attuned to the device’s effects, allowing them to fine-tune their sessions to suit their evolving needs and preferences.
Adherence to usage guidelines is also important for ensuring safety and avoiding potential adverse effects. Overuse or misuse of therapeutic devices can sometimes lead to discomfort or unintended consequences. By following the manufacturer’s recommendations, users can confidently use the device within safe parameters, maximizing benefits while minimizing any risks. Additionally, guidelines often include advice on optimal conditions for use, such as the best times of day, ideal environments, and complementary practices that can enhance the device’s effectiveness.
While devices like Sensate are generally considered safe for use by the general population, it is crucial for users to remain vigilant about their body's responses during and after use. Each individual’s reaction to such devices can vary, depending on factors like existing health conditions, sensitivity to vibrations or sound, and overall physiological differences. Paying close attention to how the body reacts can help users gauge whether the device is beneficial and ensure that it does not cause any discomfort or adverse effects.
Monitoring bodily responses involves being aware of both immediate and delayed reactions. During use, individuals should note any sensations of discomfort, dizziness, or irritation. If any of these symptoms occur, it may indicate that the device settings need adjustment or that usage duration should be modified. Additionally, tracking how one feels in the hours and days following a session can provide insights into the cumulative effects of the device. Positive responses such as reduced stress levels, improved mood, and better sleep quality are indicators of effective use, while persistent negative symptoms should prompt further investigation.
Consulting healthcare professionals is a prudent step, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those who are unsure about the suitability of such devices for their particular situation. Healthcare providers can offer personalized advice based on an individual’s medical history, ensuring that the use of the device aligns with their overall health plan. For instance, people with certain cardiac conditions, neurological disorders, or severe anxiety might require specific guidelines or precautions to use these devices safely.
Healthcare professionals can also help users interpret their body’s responses and make informed decisions about continued use. They can provide guidance on optimal usage patterns, suggest modifications to enhance comfort and efficacy, and offer alternative or complementary therapies if needed. This professional support ensures that individuals are using the device in a way that maximizes benefits while minimizing any potential risks.
Furthermore, consulting a healthcare professional before starting to use such devices can help in identifying any contraindications that may not be immediately obvious. For example, individuals with implanted medical devices like pacemakers or those who are pregnant may have specific restrictions or recommendations regarding the use of vibration or sound therapy. A healthcare provider can help navigate these considerations, providing peace of mind and ensuring safe use.
While devices like Sensate offer significant benefits for stress reduction and improved sleep, it is important to recognize that individual suitability can vary widely. Factors such as personal health history, current medical conditions, and individual sensitivity to vibration and sound can influence how effective and appropriate these devices are for each person. What works well for one individual might not be suitable or as effective for another, highlighting the need for a personalized approach to using such therapeutic tools.
For individuals with specific medical conditions, consulting with a healthcare professional before using devices like Sensate is crucial. Conditions such as heart arrhythmias, epilepsy, severe anxiety disorders, and certain types of chronic pain may require special consideration. A healthcare professional can provide tailored advice that takes into account the nuances of these conditions, ensuring that the use of the device does not exacerbate any symptoms or interfere with existing treatment plans. This professional input is essential for safely integrating the device into one's health and wellness routine.
For instance, individuals with heart conditions may need to be cautious with devices that influence heart rate or involve physical vibrations. While the Sensate device is designed to be safe, its effects on the vagus nerve and heart rate should be carefully monitored in those with cardiovascular issues. A healthcare professional can help assess the risk and determine appropriate usage guidelines, ensuring that the device supports rather than hinders cardiovascular health.
Similarly, people with neurological conditions such as epilepsy might need to approach the use of vibration and sound therapy with caution. The stimulation provided by these devices could potentially trigger seizures in sensitive individuals. A healthcare provider can offer valuable guidance on whether such devices are advisable and suggest any necessary precautions to minimize risks. This ensures that individuals with neurological conditions can use the device safely, if at all, and avoid any adverse effects.

Conclusion on Sensate

In summary, the Sensate device, through its innovative use of infrasound technology and soundwave toning, offers a safe and effective method for stress relief, anxiety management, and overall well-being improvement.

I would give the Sensate device an overall rating of 8/10. Its approach capitalises on the power of sound, the nervous system, and human physiology to provide users with a holistic means of achieving relaxation and stress reduction. It could definitely offer more free sessions with the standard purchase, but there are still enough to get the benefits.

Its simple design and easy user experience makes it a device that has minimal barriers to use. The Sensate is definitely worth a try and indeed a great alternative to the usual wrist worn variations of devices like this.

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Sensate Review: The Wearable Pebble That Targets The Vagus Nerve