In today’s fast-paced world, stress and mental health challenges are becoming more common. Restorative environments help people relax and recover emotionally, and Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy (VRET) offers a way to experience these benefits beyond physical limitations. However, most VRET applications rely on pre-designed content, limiting their adaptability to individual needs. This study explores how Generative AI can enhance VRET by creating personalized, immersive environments that better match users’ preferences and improve relaxation. To evaluate the impact of AI-generated restorative environments, we combined EEG measurements with user interviews. Thirty university students participated in the study, experiencing two different modes: static mode and walking mode. The EEG results showed an increase in Theta (θ) and High Beta (β) brain waves, suggesting a state of deep immersion accompanied by heightened cognitive engagement and mental effort. While participants found the experience enjoyable and engaging, the AI-generated environments tended to create excitement and focus rather than conventional relaxation. These findings suggest that for AI-generated environments in VRET to be more effective for stress relief, future designs should reduce cognitive load while maintaining immersion. This study provides insights into how AI can enhance relaxation experiences and introduces a new perspective on personalized digital stress-relief solutions.

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Enhancing Virtual Restorative Environment with Generative AI: Personalized Immersive Stress-Relief Experiences

  • Kuei-Yuan Chang,
  • Chang-Franw Lee

摘要

In today’s fast-paced world, stress and mental health challenges are becoming more common. Restorative environments help people relax and recover emotionally, and Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy (VRET) offers a way to experience these benefits beyond physical limitations. However, most VRET applications rely on pre-designed content, limiting their adaptability to individual needs. This study explores how Generative AI can enhance VRET by creating personalized, immersive environments that better match users’ preferences and improve relaxation. To evaluate the impact of AI-generated restorative environments, we combined EEG measurements with user interviews. Thirty university students participated in the study, experiencing two different modes: static mode and walking mode. The EEG results showed an increase in Theta (θ) and High Beta (β) brain waves, suggesting a state of deep immersion accompanied by heightened cognitive engagement and mental effort. While participants found the experience enjoyable and engaging, the AI-generated environments tended to create excitement and focus rather than conventional relaxation. These findings suggest that for AI-generated environments in VRET to be more effective for stress relief, future designs should reduce cognitive load while maintaining immersion. This study provides insights into how AI can enhance relaxation experiences and introduces a new perspective on personalized digital stress-relief solutions.