Motion and play combine for physical and emotional benefits. The use of motion in play, specifically video games, has been shown to provide both physical and emotional stress relief. When combined with the flow of engaging game play (distraction) and specific visual or auditory intereference, a powerful combined effect is possible. Studies have shown engaged play will reduce the perceived effort levels, allowing gamers to push further for increased physiological effects. At DeepWell DTx this has always been a consideration in our game design. While motion is not required for therapeutic benefit from a game, it is one of the surest ways to see immediate stress relief. The “grand daddy” of rhythmic based motion games is Beat Saber, and as this article shows, the benefits can be considerable. https://lnkd.in/gHxT9aMm
When I’m in my flow state in Supernatural, and there’s a great song playing, it’s the ultimate workout. The gamifying of fitness is such an added bonus. I used to be a competitive figure skater, so muscle memory helped me focus on power and stamina.
This is information that can definitely be used to one’s advantage when exercising. I find that 45 minutes in Supernatural or Beat Saber feels like the mental equivalent of 5 treadmill minutes (only a slight exaggeration!). You get an incredible workout in but your brain doesn’t register the effort in the same way because it is super engaged - such a win!
Fascinating! I'm learning so much from you. I know that play is a stress reliever, but this is ADDITIONAL goodness.
I have to admit that my two sons and I love Beat Saber. Very much looking forward to trying Zengence
VR gaming has taken motion based play to the next level and been thr subject of many studies showing enhanced mental and physical health benefits.
VR has brought so many new possibilities for therapeutic delivery. It is very interesting to think about how motion an distraction combine to build a stress reduction mechanism.
Beat Saber is my favourite VR game!
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3moGreat to see research behind this. During the pandemic, playing VR games helped me overcome anxiety and symptoms of depression. I spent 30-60 minutes after work playing Thrill of the Fight and Supernatural (very similar to Beat Saber mechanics) - both very rhythmic and physical.