GERMANY – Researchers in Germany have published the results on a study into “Virtual Forest Bathing” and shown that you don’t have to go outdoors to reap the benefits of immersing yourself in nature.
Researchers from the Max Planck Institute for Human Development and the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf used Insta360 camera set up on tripods in the Sonnenberg Nature Reserve to capture the nature videos and then hooked up participants into fully immersive VR headsets accompanied with audio and even scents (Douglas fir essential oils) to recreate what the Japanese call Shinrin Yoku, or forest bathing.
Their results published in Journal of Environmental Psychology were promising as they showed the multi-sensory 360° simulation had positive effects on mood and improved cognitive function.
“We can already say that digital nature experiences can absolutely produce an emotional effect – even if they don’t replace actual nature.” -Leonie Ascone
While very preliminary (only 130 test subjects) the study is a good sign for folks who do not have access to natural surroundings but want to benefit from immersing themselves in them. To read more here.
images from mpg.de
