February 2025 Live Q&A
In February’s Live Q&A session, the team tackled troubleshooting tips, explored advanced features, and shared key updates for the Dharma Dr. Tabs. Whether you’re troubleshooting your device or looking to get the most out of your Tabs, this recap has you covered. Catch the full replay below or dive into the key highlights.
Session Summary:
Device Overview and Functionality
Timestamp: 00:01:22 – 00:03:30
- Brad begins with a demo of the Dharma Dr. tabs, explaining their functionality, including manual and app mode, as well as pairing.
- The tabs can operate independently without the app. A pulsing white light indicates pairing mode, while a solid white light confirms successful pairing.
- Each tab has two symbols on the back: a squiggly line and a level symbol. Squeeze each tab at the bottom of the tab (Dharma Dr. symbol) to start, adjust speed, and change vibration intensity.
- There are six manual settings available without the app, making them useful when a phone is unavailable or in discreet settings.
- Manual mode allows users to activate the tabs easily in various environments, such as on an airplane, without drawing attention.
Troubleshooting Connection Issues
Timestamp: 00:03:50 – 00:07:25
- Bluetooth signal interference may occur when the tabs are fully enclosed in the hands or placed on the thighs, causing them to disconnect and attempt to re-pair.
- Common user reports involve disconnection during a session, often due to placement or how the tabs are held. Hardware and firmware updates aim to improve connectivity.
- A firmware update is scheduled for release later in the month to enhance connection stability, even if the tabs briefly disconnect.
- Upon opening the app, the tabs will prompt a pairing request. When connected, they display a teal blue light and will automatically reconnect if disconnected.
- Users can control the tabs via the app, adjusting speed and intensity while customizing therapy settings.
- A troubleshooting tip includes setting the tabs on a table, starting them, and testing connection range by walking away with the phone.
App Features and Functionality
Timestamp: 00:07:42 – 00:12:03
- The app’s simplest functions include speed and intensity adjustments, with additional features available under the "More" screen.
- The "Advanced" section includes audio bilateral stimulation (BLS), requiring headphones for an immersive experience.
- An "Auto Stop" feature enables users to set a specific number of cycles or a time limit for automatic deactivation.
- Users can track cycle counts and battery levels directly from the main page.
- The app provides options to disable vibration or LED lights, beneficial for sleep or low-visibility settings.
- The "Remote Access" feature allows therapists to generate a code for controlling clients’ tabs remotely, facilitating virtual EMDR sessions.
- Therapists can manage multiple sets of tabs simultaneously, enabling group EMDR sessions or bilateral stimulation protocols.
Pairing and Resetting
Timestamp: 00:12:17 – 00:16:49
- If previously paired tabs fail to reconnect, a factory reset may be necessary. This involves placing them in the charging case, holding the flower buttons for 10 seconds, and releasing them.
- A firmware update is being developed to simplify multi-device pairing, available through the app’s OTA function.
- Users can check for pairing issues by ensuring both tabs pulse white, indicating a connection problem, and performing a factory reset.
- Resetting the tabs allows them to go through a re-pairing process, resetting their connection to the phone.
- If a pairing request is not received, restarting the phone or closing and reopening the app may resolve the issue. Additionally, users should remove any previously paired Dharma Doctor devices from Bluetooth settings.
Charging and Battery Life
Timestamp: 00:17:42 – 00:20:31
- Charging indicators: blue (not charged), green (fully charged), and orange (charging). If the tabs fail to charge, the case may need to be plugged in.
- At full charge, the tabs last approximately two and a half hours on the highest settings. Shorter session use extends overall battery life.
- The charging case provides multiple charges before requiring a recharge.
- The case battery holds approximately two full charges and depletes slowly over time if left unused.
- Charging the case takes about 20-30 minutes, with a white front light indicating charging status.
App Updates and Feedback
Timestamp: 00:21:10 – 00:22:54
- App updates are released weekly or bi-weekly, incorporating therapist feedback for continuous product improvement.
- Users can submit feedback and feature requests through two buttons in the app: one for technical support and another for suggestions.
Group Experience and Remote Access
Timestamp: 00:23:40– 00:26:24
- Inspired by the Humanitarian Assistance Project, the group experience feature aims to make bilateral stimulation widely accessible.
- The feature enables deployment of the tabs to groups, allowing guided protocols in real time.
- Use cases include integrating sound baths into digital live events for simultaneous stimulation experiences.
- Group bilateral stimulation enhances synchrony and benefits participants beyond traditional EMDR settings.
Future Development and Presets
Timestamp: 00:27:30– 00:28:26
- The ability to save presets for different use cases is under consideration, allowing users to customize manual modes for repeated sessions.
- Additional plans include wristband accessories for independent use and expanding the app’s guided meditation library.
Bilateral Stimulation for Performance Enhancement
Timestamp: 00:29:35– 00:31:11
- Bilateral stimulation aids in achieving optimal performance states. Users report improved focus and relaxation.
- Stress management follows the Yerkes-Dodson performance curve, where moderate stress enhances motivation while excessive stress hinders performance.
Optimizing Settings and Intensity
Timestamp: 00:45:27– 00:47:13
- Effectiveness varies by individual; users should experiment with different settings to find the most calming experience.
- A 62% reduction in stress within 30 seconds is the goal for optimal use.
- If feeling angry or struggling to sleep, adjusting speed and intensity can enhance effectiveness.