This is so interesting Chris and the studies are fascinating to read. I love watching nature programmes, there is something about the visuals, sound (and possibly david attenborough's soothing voice!) which brings the programmes alive and definitely activate my soothing system. However, for me there is something about being around "real" nature where the benefit is enhanced. Having real plants in my house is also important to me as opposed to fake ones- I wonder if there is something about the actual physiological benefits of being "in" nature (rather than virtually) account for this and make it preferable?...just some musings of mine!
Thanks Hannah and great points. There is a lot of research suggesting the physiological benefits that a natural environment can provide, from chemicals that trees emit through to helpful bacteria in the soil, so I think you are right. I guess also within VR part of you is aware that it’s not real, which may be a limiting factor. I came to write this post with reservations about VR, although I think my perspective has shifted with regard to the potential use to support those who cannot access nature or perhaps as an education step (similar I guess to the role that more traditional media like TV have also provided) which leads people to then engage more with real natural environments. Suspect I may return to this topic again at some point and possibly how VR could be used with compassion programmes 🤓
This is so interesting Chris and the studies are fascinating to read. I love watching nature programmes, there is something about the visuals, sound (and possibly david attenborough's soothing voice!) which brings the programmes alive and definitely activate my soothing system. However, for me there is something about being around "real" nature where the benefit is enhanced. Having real plants in my house is also important to me as opposed to fake ones- I wonder if there is something about the actual physiological benefits of being "in" nature (rather than virtually) account for this and make it preferable?...just some musings of mine!
Thanks Hannah and great points. There is a lot of research suggesting the physiological benefits that a natural environment can provide, from chemicals that trees emit through to helpful bacteria in the soil, so I think you are right. I guess also within VR part of you is aware that it’s not real, which may be a limiting factor. I came to write this post with reservations about VR, although I think my perspective has shifted with regard to the potential use to support those who cannot access nature or perhaps as an education step (similar I guess to the role that more traditional media like TV have also provided) which leads people to then engage more with real natural environments. Suspect I may return to this topic again at some point and possibly how VR could be used with compassion programmes 🤓