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Calm TMR: Extending Targeted Memory Reactivation for Calmness and Well-Being in At-Home Sleep

Poster Session E - Monday, March 9, 2026, 2:30 – 4:30 pm PDT, Fairview/Kitsilano Ballroom

Jeongeun Kim¹ (), Alysiana Martinez¹, Nathan W. Whitmore², Ken Paller¹; ¹Northwestern University, ²Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Traditional Targeted Memory Reactivation (TMR) has focused primarily on mnemonic consolidation. This project extends the framework beyond memory enhancement toward inducing calmness and positive affect during sleep through an approach called Calm TMR. The key question is whether a calm state conditioned with auditory cues during wake can be reactivated during slow-wave sleep to promote physiological relaxation and emotional balance. To move beyond laboratory constraints, we designed an at-home TMR protocol allowing participants to sleep naturally in their home environment. Data were collected from 68 participants, with 4 excluded. Technically, this work builds on a Galaxy-Watch–based TMR app, which we expanded into a flexible platform supporting customizable cues, adjustable duration, volume range control, and adaptive sound attenuation based on arousal. The system enables real-time cue delivery directly from the watch, providing an accessible, wearable framework for everyday TMR research. Subjective sleep quality and dream affect were measured using a sleep-quality assessment and daily sleep diaries, while physiological data from a Galaxy Watch and Muse EEG headband captured sleep stage, heart rate, and movement patterns. Calm TMR is expected to enhance sleep efficiency, deepen slow-wave sleep, and foster calmer, more positive sleep experiences. By seeking to promote calm and restorative sleep, Calm TMR has the potential to improve daytime functioning and overall well-being, bridging cognitive neuroscience with practical applications for daily life.

Topic Area: EMOTION & SOCIAL: Emotion-cognition interactions