Understanding the role of rhythm: Effects of VR-based breathing meditation on anxiety, stress, and mindfulness
Computers in Human Behavior Reports June 16, 2026 Peng Tan, Yanpin Song, Xinyu Zhang et al.
Breathing meditation delivered through virtual reality (VR) can reduce anxiety and stress while enhancing mindfulness. A new VR system, BreathMe, tested four breathing rhythms (4-2-4 G, 4-7-8 G, 5-0-5 G, 5-0-5 A) and three interaction modes (natural, guided, adaptive) in 40 college students. The 5-0-5 A rhythm consistently improved mindfulness and reduced both stress and anxiety; 4-2-4 G moderately reduced stress and anxiety; 5-0-5 G and 4-7-8 G mainly reduced stress. Adaptive interaction produced the largest gains in mindfulness and the greatest stress and anxiety reductions, guided showed moderate benefits, and natural had the least effect. Both rhythm and mode independently and jointly shape responses, guiding personalized VR meditation design.