Abstract:
Virtual Reality (VR) has emerged as a promising tool in healthcare
management, with recent studies exploring its effectiveness in addressing
various psychological and physiological disorders. Stress is prevalent in
modern society, necessitating effective strategies for its management. While
sports and extended reality (XR) gaming have shown promising effects on
mental health, this study aims to investigate the effectiveness of VR in
reducing stress by comparing conventional and VR-based relaxation
techniques using HRV parameters and EEG responses. A total of 40
participants (28 males, 12 females) with a mean age of 25 ± 3.21 years
participated in the study. Baseline recordings were obtained, followed by a
stress phase induced by a timed IQ quiz. Participants were then randomly
assigned to either VR-based relaxation or conventional relaxation
techniques. Both relaxation methods significantly improved heart rate
variability (HRV) and decreased sympathetic dominance, indicating
enhanced adaptability to stress and activation of the parasympathetic
nervous system (PNS).However, VR-based relaxation resulted in a more
pronounced decrease in heart rate and a significant reduction in the LF/HF
ratio compared to conventional relaxation, suggesting a deeper state ofxv
relaxation. Furthermore, VR-based relaxation led to a significant increase in
the alpha-to-beta ratio, indicating a calmer mental state compared to non-VR
relaxation. Notable changes were also recorded in Alpha Power in the
frontal channels and Beta Power across all channels, suggesting greater
effectiveness in inducing PNS activation and recovery.
