Virtual Reality Exercise May Help Lower Stress Levels

"Researchers from Tohoku University's Smart-Aging Research Center found that when people watched exercise in an immersive virtual reality setting, they got some of the same results as people who physically exercise.

After watching the avatar run for half an hour, researchers saw a reduction in the concentration of salivary alpha-amylase, an enzyme that is a biomarker for determining levels of stress.

Decreased anxiety levels happened when the study participants watched their own avatar exercise. When they watched another virtual body run, there were different results.

A 2016 study showed that virtual reality helped stroke patients improve their balance. Another 2016 study looked at a mental health application for VR, finding that it helped in psychological treatment.

“Individuals who are mobility-impaired or paralyzed may be able to benefit psychologically from the simulation of moving or running in a first-person view,” states Glatt.

There could be several drawbacks:

• Risk of motion sickness
• Wearing the headset for long periods can result in neck injuries and spinal trauma
• VR equipment might be costly"

Read the complete article available at Very Well Mind!

Reflection:

What are your thoughts on VR?

*I've been on a VR roller coaster and it was amazing! It was so similar to the real thing. I would love to try VR exercise someday.*

#VirtualReality #VR #Exercise #Fitness #Health #Research