Overview

• Twenty cardiac or at-risk patients at UCLA Health underwent 30-minute immersive VR relaxation sessions featuring colorful visuals and soothing audio.
• Participants reported feeling distant from stress, often losing track of time or experiencing a floating sensation during VR experiences.
• Post-session measurements showed significant drops in State-Trait Anxiety Inventory–State scores, decreased heart rates, and increased vagal tone.
• Nearly half of the study group had prior anxiety or depression, underlining stress as an under-addressed cardiovascular risk factor.
• Authors argue that VR offers a safe, effective emotional support tool that could complement traditional heart care.