The Restorative Effects of Nature Exposure via Virtual Reality on Well-being, Self-Control, and Working Memory

The psychological benefits of nature exposure are vital for well-being in an increasingly urbanised world. While previous research has consistently demonstrated the restorative effects of natural environments on both physical and psychological health, findings on virtual nature simulations remain mixed, possibly due to the limited immersive quality of conventional displays. Virtual reality (VR), however, provides immersive visual and auditory engagement, making it a promising alternative for delivering nature-based experiences when direct exposure to real nature environments is unavailable. The present study examined the effects of VR-simulated nature on attentional and emotional restoration and self-control capacity, using a preregistered, within-subjects experimental design. Participants experienced both the VR nature condition and the non-immersive urban video condition as a control, with the order of conditions counterbalanced across participants. Emotional restoration, self-control capacity, and working memory capacity, as an index of attentional restoration, were assessed before and after each condition. VR nature exposure significantly enhanced self-control capacity and positive affect, while reducing negative affect compared to the urban control condition. However, no significant differences between the conditions were observed in working memory capacity. This research demonstrates that VR-simulated nature exposure improves affective outcomes and self-control capacity. These findings contribute to our understanding of VR technology as a potential alternative for urban populations with limited access to natural environments. • Study examined VR nature exposure's effects on emotional and cognitive restoration • Used within-subjects design with 100 students to assess mood and cognitive outcomes • VR nature boosted positive mood, reduced negativity, aided self-control, not memory • VR nature may support well-being in urban and mobility-limited populations