Harnessing Nature's Power: Boosting Mental Health Through Virtual Reality and Education

A study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology using immersive virtual reality technology suggests that spacious natural landscapes can enhance feelings of selflessness, connectedness, and boost positive emotions. Participants in the study experienced a reduction in the salience of their perceived body boundaries and reported a greater sense of selflessness when immersed in spacious natural environments compared to dense ones. The study also found that stress levels significantly decreased after participants experienced virtual reality nature exposure, with stress reduction being more pronounced in spacious settings. The findings highlight the potential of open landscapes to reduce stress, anxiety, and improve mental well-being.