〈English Summary〉 PONO — A Calm, Non-Competitive Dynamic Meditation Game
PONO is a simple form of play designed to give an overworked mind a gentle rest.
There are no complicated controls and nothing you need to memorize. You can start anytime, stop anytime, and play entirely at your own pace.
In most cases, the game continues until you tap the check mark in the upper corner — allowing you to keep playing without worrying about an ending.
There is no winning or losing in PONO. Because of that, your mind naturally stays neutral. Each time you play, you can return to a calm, balanced state.
When is PONO helpful?
- When you want to do something, but nothing demanding - When you want to think while keeping your hands gently occupied - When you want to regain a sense of calm
What is “Dynamic Meditation”?
Unlike traditional seated meditation, dynamic meditation involves light movement.
Have you ever felt strangely refreshed while cleaning a bathroom? Or noticed your mood lift while repeatedly assembling boxes? Or had a good idea come to you while washing dishes or brushing your teeth?
These moments are all examples of dynamic meditation.
PONO brings this experience onto your smartphone.
Because there is no fixed ending, PONO frees you from goals and competition. Whether you focus intentionally or play absentmindedly, it allows you to quietly reconnect with yourself.
PONO has also received high praise from professionals in meditation and mindfulness.
※ This system is protected by a Japanese patent (Patent No. 7289433). “PONO” is a Hawaiian word meaning “to be in harmony with oneself.”
How to Play
Playing PONO is very simple. Just create the number shown at the top using the seven switches below.
You can choose from four display styles — Kanji, Blocks, English spelling, or Random — depending on your mood.
At first, it may feel like a light brain exercise. As you get used to it, many players naturally enter a calm, meditative flow.
After each session, one of ten short messages appears, inspired by the ancient Chinese philosophy of the Ten Heavenly Stems, gently helping to settle your mind.
The Philosophy of PONO
PONO values “not competing, not comparing, not fighting, and not forcing.”
It offers a quiet moment to return to your own natural rhythm without emotional ups and downs.
Meditation is often said to activate the brain and help organize thoughts. PONO recreates this kind of quiet, balancing time through simple play.
If you feel a sense of calm or alignment, we would love to hear your experience through a review or feedback. (New modes will be added gradually.)