Experience crafting starts with an emotion
People seek emotional experiences for various reasons deeply rooted in human nature. Emotions are integral to our existence, shaping our perceptions, interactions, and overall well-being. One primary motive is the pursuit of fulfilment and happiness. Positive emotions like joy, love, and excitement contribute to a sense of contentment, making life more meaningful.
Given the multitude of emotion classification models available, we have chosen to adopt Plutchik’s Wheel, which offers a selection of 32 emotions. This allows both our experience creators and buyers to better comprehend and connect with each other. The emotions are: Acceptance, Admiration, Aggressiveness, Amazement, Anger, Annoyance, Anticipation, Apprehension, Awe, Boredom, Contempt, Disappointment, Disgust, Distraction, Ecstasy, Fear, Grief, Interest, Joy, Loathing, Love, Optimism, Pensiveness, Rage, Remorse, Sadness, Serenity, Submission, Surprise, Terror, Trust, Vigilance.
Learn more in our Creator zone. When designing an experience centered around emotional release and enrichment, the initial step involves determining which emotions of the recipient should be addressed.
The before, during and after perspective
Before
Prior to the experience, an individual may be grappling with negative emotions like anger, annoyance, remorse, sadness, loathing, or vigilance. When crafting the experience, consider providing the buyer with opportunities to release these pent-up emotions through activities such as listening or talking, engaging in art or dance therapy, demolition or scream therapy, participating in emotion-focused activities, or practicing energy-based exercises. The significance of facilitating emotional releases and establishing emotional balance cannot be overstated.
During
Throughout the experience, the buyer may desire to encounter specific emotions like awe, serenity, submission, amazement, or surprise. These emotions can be elicited through diverse experiences, including play, travel, sensual encounters, immersive activities, or humour-infused moments. Alternatively, particular emotions may naturally arise during the experience, such as anticipation, fear, trust, optimism, or distraction. Creators can induce these emotions by offering virtual companionship experiences, incorporating taste and smell sensations, and incorporating sensory, emotion-focused or energy-based therapies.
After
As the result of the experience, the individual may aspire to be left with positive emotions such as acceptance, joy, serenity, or love. Achieving these outcomes can be facilitated through animal encounters, photo and video experiences, and technology-driven interactions. Facial treatments, body rituals and sensory deprivation can help too. In some instances, prolonged experiences and experience hosting have the potential to be transformative and life-changing for the recipient.
Focus on the emotions of the client
Having an emotional experience of a desired kind, can help with healthy emotional regulation and improve someone’s emotional balance. Learn why people want emotional experiences, how to buy one, what to share with creators and visit our creator zone to start making your own popular emotional experiences.
Leveraging Plutchik’s Wheel of Emotions and incorporating the three laws of multisensory experiences outlined by Velasco and Obrist, our experience creators elevate emotional support to unprecedented heights. Through the provision of multisensory and emotion-evoking experiences, they extend a unique emotional service that occasionally delves into concealed and personal sentiments, addressing aspects that might not find support elsewhere. While our creators contribute significantly to emotional well-being, it’s essential to acknowledge that their support complements mental health but is not a substitute for advice and treatment from qualified medical professionals.
Emotional experiences play a crucial role in personal development. Facing and navigating through a range of emotions, including challenges and setbacks, contribute to resilience and emotional intelligence. The highs and lows of life provide opportunities for learning, self-discovery, and growth. In the pursuit of purpose and meaning, emotional experiences offer a compass. The depth of emotions adds layers to our experiences, prompting introspection and a quest for significance. Through emotional engagement, individuals often find motivation and direction, guiding them towards a life that aligns with their values and aspirations.
Some good resources
PyPlutchik: Visualising and comparing emotion-annotated corpora
The Emotions Lab – an historical laboratory where we use the past to understand our feelings in the present
Sensitive People Benefit More From Positive Experiences (psychologytoday.com)
Struggling to Name How You Feel? Try Using This Wheel
You may also find useful: 5 MUST-DOS IN DESIGNING AN EMOTIONALLY ENGAGING EXPERIENCE