SEONMEDI VR Natural Meditation Program for University Students Experiencing Psychological Difficulties During the Pandemic: Effects on Heart Rate Variability, Perceived Stress, and Self-Compassion
Korean Association For Learner-Centered Curriculum And Instruction August 15, 2023 H. Han, Han-ik Jo
A virtual reality natural meditation program combining Korean Seon meditation with natural scenery improved heart rate variability, perceived stress, and self-compassion scores in Korean university students who faced psychological difficulties from pandemic social distancing. Thirty-four students were randomly assigned to either the VR meditation or a no-treatment control group. The experimental group showed significantly increased heart rate variability each session and better stress and self-compassion scores compared to controls. Participants reported relief from daily pressures and increased relaxation. The program is suggested as a promising intervention for post-pandemic psychological support.