Psychological restoration and cognitive enhancement by interactive biophilic virtual environments: a comparative study of forest, oceanic and urban settings

To construct interactive biophilic virtual environments using the virtual reality (VR) technology and biophilia theory in order to study their effects on psychophysiological restoration and cognitive enhancement in individuals exposed to confined environments.

High-fidelity interactive biophilic virtual environments (forests, oceans, and cities) and a neutral control scenario were created. A randomized controlled trial was conducted in 235 healthy participants. Stress-related physiological responses were assessed using wearable sensors to measure heart rate variability (HRV) and skin conductance levels (SCLs). Cognitive performance was evaluated using the Stroop color-word test and the Alternative Uses Test (AUT).

Significant differences were observed between the virtual environments. Exposure to the virtual forests resulted in the most pronounced improvements in perceived restoration and positive effect. Compared with the virtual urban and oceanic environments,the forest environment significantly increased HRV/root mean square of successive differences (RMSSD) (P<0.0001) but decreased SCLs (P<0.0001). Furthermore,the Stroop reaction time was significantly reduced (P<0.001),and AUT creativity scores were significantly enhanced (P<0.0001).

An interactive virtual biophilic forest environment can effectively mitigate the adverse effects of confinement while delivering dual benefits of psychological restoration and cognitive enhancement. This approach has great implications for maintaining long-term operational capability in individuals exposed to prolonged confinement.