As we all know, mindfulness and meditation experiences have become a booming industry, and it’s now estimated to be worth over $1 billion. Up until now, everyone has been excited to see where the industry will go next and now it seems like the answer is clear. M ss ng p eces (missing pieces but the spaces are the brand’s name) have now launched innovative VR experiences, especially for followers of meditation practices. There’s even one that can place you straight into the heart of a guided session.
The VR experiences were founded and created by the M ss ng P eces company alongside Jack Kornfield, founder of the lucrative Spirit Rock Meditation Center, a centre located in Northern California. Currently available, you can access a 360° video on YouTube, titled the Daydream.
In this VR experience, users can witness and virtually ‘partake’ in meditation speeches and talks as well as a ‘walking’ meditation, but it’s highly recommended that you sit through, for your own safety. These packages have been released with the hopes that it inspires other companies in the industry to do the same. During this stage, it’s all about trial and error of creating the content that people will respond and engage with. If this new technology and content can positively change someone’s life, as meditation does, it’s a job well done.
The Past & The Future Combined
However, it turns out that this isn’t the first time that technology and mindfulness have combined. Free Guided Meditation videos are currently available on the Oculus Rift store page for download right now. This can be found here under the experiences section. In these packages, there are 25 unique sessions to choose from, varying from Zen or Relaxation packages as well as customisable experiences. The hardware can even monitor your heart rate during the session to provide you with feedback on how effective your session was.
There is still some controversy as to whether using technology in this way is an effective way to meditate. Many people believe that meditation should be an escape and break from the stresses of everyday life.
Is It a Good Thing?
One reporter from Fox News trailed the Samsung Gear VR meditation experience at a showcase in New York.
During his experience, he states that his heart rate remained around 76 beats per minute throughout the experience. He trialled a variety of settings and virtual environments. He concluded that although the entire, yet brief experience, was definitely fun and immersive. However, he wasn’t sure whether the experience was relaxing and doubted the future of the technology.
The Future of Meditation
However, only time will tell. Even if used as a gateway into meditation, if some people find it relaxing and find solace in the experiences. If someone can have a break from everyday life, then the technology has done its job. However, it’s understandable that it won’t be for everybody.
At Antaryami, we’d love to hear your thoughts! Do you think this is a great idea for encouraging people to meditate or do you think it’s a step too far? Leave your thoughts and opinions in the comment section below and become part of our community! Don’t forget, share this article with your friends and families to see what they think! Namaste!
