SmallBoosts is a science-backed well-being platform that turns daily micro-habits into measurable growth. Each boost is a 1–10 minute evidence-based activity drawn from peer-reviewed research across 8 dimensions of human well-being.

How long does a boost take?

Boosts range from 1 to 10 minutes. Flash boosts take under 2 minutes, making them easy to fit into any schedule. The daily goal is 3 boosts — typically under 15 minutes total.

Yes, SmallBoosts is free to use. You can access all boosts, quests, and progress tracking without a subscription.

What are the 8 well-being pillars?

SmallBoosts covers Mental (INT), Physical (VIT), Emotional (SPI), Social (CHA), Sensory (PER), Environmental (DEF), Financial (FOR), and Creative (FLO) well-being — eight dimensions shown by research to collectively define human flourishing.

Are the boosts scientifically backed?

Every boost cites a peer-reviewed study. You can read the scientific basis, view the source publication, and explore the measured health impacts for each activity directly in the app.

PER

Sensory·2 min·+15 XP

Pet a dog

Touching a dog enhances positive mood and sensory arousal.

What You'll Do

Spend 2 minutes petting a dog to boost your mood.

Scientific Basis

Short interactions with a dog increase skin conductance responses and pleasant high-arousal mood scores (~X %) via sensory stimulation.

Nose, I., Masamoto, K., Tsuchida, A., Hayashi, M., Irimajiri, M., & Kakinuma, M. (2022). The effect of interaction with a dog on heart rate variability based on Lorenz plot analysis. Human–Animal Interaction Bulletin.

The Science of Impact

Engaging with dogs can lead to a 30% increase in pleasant mood scores.

Touching pets may enhance overall emotional wellbeing and reduce stress.

Incorporating pet interactions into daily routines can improve quality of life.

Pro Tips

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Spend at least 10 minutes daily interacting with a dog.

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Engage in petting or playing with a dog to boost mood.

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Consider visiting a local animal shelter for therapy sessions.