VR and Neurofeedback Improved Positive Mood and Changed Brain Activity in Firefighters: Case Study
A short VR meditation combined with neurofeedback produced measurable improvements in mood and changes in frontal brain activity in most participants. The results suggest VR-based brain training could support emotional regulation, motivation and psychological wellbeing.
Key Findings
- Just 4–5 minutes of a VR “positivity” meditation, linked to a simple brain sensor headband, changed frontal brain activity in 3 of 4 firefighters in the direction usually linked with more positive mood and motivation.
- The two firefighters whose brain activity shifted most toward the “positive” side also showed the biggest boosts in cheerfulness and drops in “bad mood” on standard mood questionnaires done before and after the VR session.
- A single, brief session still produced measurable changes in both brain patterns and how people felt right afterward.
Why This Matters
- It shows measurable changes in both brain activity and mood after a single 4–5 minute VR–brain training session, not just “relaxation.”
- It directly targets mood and emotion regulation, which connect to core NDIS goals like improved daily living, relationships, and participation.