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Access to Nature via Virtual Reality: A Mini-Review
Hansen Li1, Xing Zhang2, Hongying Wang3
1Key Laboratory of Physical Fitness Evaluation and Motor Function Monitoring of General Administration of Sports of China, Institute of Sports Science, College of Physical Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.
Frontiers in Psychology
|October 22, 2021
Summary
Virtual reality (VR) offers immersive nature experiences, potentially aiding relaxation and cognitive function for those with limited mobility. Further research is needed to confirm VR
Area of Science:
- Environmental Psychology
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Health Sciences
Background:
- Nature exposure benefits physical and mental health.
- Accessibility to real nature is limited for individuals with disabilities or chronic conditions.
- Virtual reality (VR) offers an immersive alternative for nature simulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the effectiveness of virtual nature exposure for health and well-being.
- To compare VR with traditional 2D media for simulated nature experiences.
- To identify optimal formats for virtual nature exposure.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on virtual nature exposure.
- Analysis of psychological and physiological outcomes.
- Comparison of different media formats (VR, 360° video, 2D).
Main Results:
- Virtual nature exposure generally promotes psychological and physiological relaxation.
- Evidence suggests potential improvements in attention, cognition, and pain experience.
- Computer-generated VR scenarios may be more effective than 360° videos.
- Interactive elements like mini-games show promise for VR nature experiences.
Conclusions:
- Virtual nature, particularly VR, is a promising tool for health and well-being, especially for limited-mobility populations.
- Further research is required to establish VR's superiority over 2D media and refine optimal delivery methods.
- Computer-generated and interactive VR formats warrant further investigation for enhanced simulated nature exposure.
