Nurses from intensive care units at the UMCG have recently been able to relax in virtual nature with the help of VR glasses. The VR relaxation was developed by VRelax in collaboration with the University Center for Psychiatry of the UMCG.

Since this week, UMCG ICU nurses can explore calming virtual nature environments - filmed in 360 degrees - from a chair. During their shift, they take turns relaxing for ten minutes by swimming with dolphins, sitting on a beach, taking a walk in the forest or looking at a clear starry sky.

Extra attentionfor mental health

Care for patients with COVID-19 requires a lot from intensive care staf. Extra attention to their mental health is needed because the tough working conditions will last longer. Short mental time-outs are therefore important to clear your head. That is possible with Virtual Reality (VR) relaxation.

App from VRelax

The scientifically validated app was developed together with patients and the University Medical Center Groningen. It offers a wide range of interactive Virtual Reality worlds and exercises. The controlled distraction from stress, pain and worry gives staff the opportunity to recharge mentally without effort. Scientific research by the UMCG in patients with psychological problems showed that VR relaxation has an immediate positive effect on perceived stress and mood.