FractalBrain: A Neuro-interactive Virtual Reality Experience using Electroencephalogram (EEG) for Mindfulness

Practicing mindfulness with sustained attention is difficult, especially for beginners. The proposed system, FractalBrain, combines a surreal virtual reality program with an electroencephalogram interface. While users view an ever-changing fractal-inspired artwork in an immersive environment, their EEG stream is analyzed and mapped into VR, adaptively manipulating audiovisual parameters in real time to generate a distinct experience for each user. Pilot feedback suggests the potential of FractalBrain to facilitate mindfulness and enhance attention.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Mindfulness has been studied and practiced in enhancing psychological well-being while reducing neuroticism and psychopathological indicators. However, practicing mindfulness with continuous attention is challenging, especially for beginners. In the proposed system, FractalBrain, we utilize an interactive audiovisual fractal with a geometric repetitive pattern that has been demonstrated to induce meditative effects. FractalBrain presents an experience combining a surreal virtual reality (VR) program with an electroencephalogram (EEG) interface. While viewing an ever-changing fractal-inspired artwork in an immersive environment, the user's EEG stream is analyzed and mapped into VR. These EEG data adaptively manipulates the audiovisual parameters in real-time, generating a distinct experience for each user. The pilot feedback suggests the potential of the FractalBrain to facilitate mindfulness and enhance attention.