A pilot randomized controlled trial compared a standard mindfulness-based programme (MBP), the same programme enhanced with virtual reality (MBP+VR), and a relaxation control condition in 51 non-clinical adults. All three conditions significantly reduced psychological distress. MBP+VR was more acceptable than relaxation and equally acceptable as MBP alone. MBP+VR outperformed relaxation in reducing psychological distress with a large effect. MBP alone produced greater improvements in depressive symptoms, positive affect, and several facets of mindfulness and self-compassion. MBP+VR improved total mindfulness, the observing facet, and the self-compassion mindfulness subscale. Participants in MBP+VR also showed improvements in state mindfulness and emotional states across VR sessions, reporting an intermediate sense of presence. The authors conclude that further research is warranted.
A pilot proof-of-concept study examined the neurophysiological effects of mindfulness-based artistic–contemplative sound pills—structured auditory interventions combining poetic narratives, soundscapes, and mindfulness instructions—in 12 adults using EEG. Exploratory analyses indicated a statistically significant reduction in high-frequency beta activity (20–30 Hz) during the intervention compared to pre-intervention baseline, with a return toward baseline afterward. No significant global changes appeared in other frequency bands (alpha, theta, delta, mu, low-frequency beta, or combined theta+alpha). Subgroup analyses by artistic modality (visual arts, dance, music, theater) suggested descriptive, modality-specific patterns, but these are hypothesis-generating only due to very small subgroup sizes (n=2–4) and no control condition. The authors conclude the results provide preliminary evidence that such interventions can modulate neural oscillatory dynamics, particularly in high-frequency beta, and require confirmation in larger controlled studies.