Xiaozhuang Gao is a practice-based researcher with a background in digital media design. She holds a BA degree from the University of Salford and an MA degree from the University of Edinburgh. In her PhD practice-led research, Xiaozhuang investigates non-instrumental approaches to mindfulness technology within Human–Computer Interaction. Drawing on phenomenological, pragmatist, and embodied perspectives, her work critiques goal-oriented and measurement-driven design logics in existing mindfulness technologies, and explores how technology can become a medium of experience rather than merely a means to an end. Through practice design research, she develops  mindfulness interactive prototypes that engage somatic, temporal, atmospheric, and material dimensions, exploring how design might support a shift from doing towards being.