Mindfulness lessons in a virtual natural environment to cope with work-related stress

Abstract

Work-related stress (WRS) is a major cause of people's health problems, it is also an expensive issue for organizations. The effectiveness of performing mindfulness practices in counteracting WRS has been established in the literature. In addition, the main theories related to restorative environments state that contact with nature as well helps mitigate the effects of stress. Despite this evidence, practicing mindfulness in natural environments is difficult to current modern living standards. This paper describes the development and implementation of a digital training platform, named MINDLIVEN, which consists of a virtual natural environment in which mindfulness-based practices can be carried out. In addition, the platform helps organizations become more aware of risks related to WRS and supports them in planning and delivering interventions. A pilot test was conducted and the results on usability and effectiveness are described.