Mindfulness VR Project
This dissertation investigates the effectiveness of an educational virtual reality (VR) game designed to teach mindfulness techniques. Mindfulness, the practice of non-judgmental awareness of the present moment, has gained significant attention in recent years for its potential benefits in improving focus, reducing stress and anxiety, and enhancing overall well-being. Leveraging the immersive nature of VR technology, this project aims to develop and examine the impact of a mindfulness-focused VR game.
The open world design offers the player freedom to explore and move about the world making it more entertaining. The Japanese garden styler was chosen because they are designed with specific principles and elements that encourage a sense of tranquillity and inner peace, making them ideal spaces for practising mindfulness.
The game also has the potential to serve as a valuable tool for mindfulness education, providing an accessible and engaging platform for learning and practising mindfulness techniques. The dissertation's findings contribute to understanding how technology-mediated interventions can effectively support mindfulness training in educational settings and beyond.
One of the activities offered in the game is painting. This is because it is an activity that requires engagement from the participant, allowing them to focus their attention on a single activity and achieve a flow state while emotionally expressing themself. This activity works well in this project as it allows the user to fully take advantage of the VR format
A music-based feature was chosen for this project as it music can have a positive impact on the nervous system, helping to regulate heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration, which are all important in managing stress and anxiety. Music itself is an integral part of game design and can contribute significantly to the overall player experience. This is achieved by setting the tone and atmosphere of the game. By providing a cohesive audio backdrop music helps players feel more connected to the game world.
The body can activity is included in this project as it is a well-known exercise that reduces symptoms of anxiety, depression and pain. This practice will help the player become more aware of their physical sensations and become more grounded in their body, leading to a greater sense of overall relaxation and well-being.
The Five Senses activity was chosen for this project as the exercise is a staple of mindfulness learning and practices. With this game being a visual, auditory and physical experience this activity fits in well with what the project is trying to achieve.
