philip lelyveld The world of entertainment technology

Virtual reality research suggests nature’s spaciousness is key to boosting mental health

A recent study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology indicates that spacious natural landscapes can enhance feelings of selflessness, connectedness, and boost positive emotions. The research, conducted using immersive virtual reality technology, found that participants felt a diminished sense of body boundaries, leading to increased selflessness. ...

The study involved 80 participants, primarily students, who were invited to explore virtual natural environments created by the researchers.

The participants were divided into four groups, each experiencing a different combination of spaciousness and nature type. Some explored dense natural landscapes, while others ventured into spacious ones. Additionally, the researchers considered two types of nature settings: tended and wild. The tended landscapes featured signs of human intervention, such as paths, while the wild ones remained untouched by human hands. ...

Moreover, the study demonstrates the value of virtual reality technology in providing immersive nature experiences, particularly for those who may have limited access to wide open spaces. Virtual reality could help to bridge the gap between urban living and the natural world, offering opportunities for relaxation, stress reduction, and emotional well-being. ...

See the full story here: https://www.psypost.org/2023/10/virtual-reality-research-suggests-natures-spaciousness-is-key-to-boosting-mental-health-214084