This study investigates the effects of virtual reality (VR)-based respiratory training on various physiological and cognitive functions in shift-working healthcare professionals, including paramedics and nurses. The research will evaluate how VR-guided breathing exercises influence: stress levels, motor reaction time and accuracy, attention and cognitive performance, motor skills and postural stability, sleep quality
Participants will be divided into three groups:
VR-based respiratory training group - performing guided breathing exercises in a VR environment.
Music-based relaxation group - listening to relaxing music without structured breathing instructions.
Control group - no intervention.
The findings will help determine whether VR-based respiratory training is an effective method for improving stress resilience, cognitive function, and physical performance in shift-working healthcare professionals.
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Parallel
Experimental group (B) - breathing training using VR
Other interventionThe Flowborne VR - Biofeedback Breathing Meditation game is an interactive training environment that guides the participant through a series of breathing exercises. The app adjusts the difficulty level and pace of the workout in real time based on the participant's physiological parameters, such as breathing rhythm. Types of exercises in the game: 1. diaphragmatic breathing - the participant takes slow, controlled breaths, inhaling into the diaphragm and exhaling at a set pace. The game visualizes breathing through animations of water waves and background color changes. 2. rhythmic breathing - the participant sts his breathing rhythm to the changing visual and audio stimuli, allowing for synchronous breathing control. 3. Controlled exhalation lengthening - the participant learns the technique of slow exhalation of air to improve relaxation and reduce tension.
Experimental group (C) - breathing training using relaxation music
Other intervention* Diaphragmatic breathing - the conscious engagement of the diaphragm in the inhalation process. * Controlled exhalation lengthening - a technique to lengthen the exhalation phase. * Rhythmic breathing - synchronizing breathing with a set pace to improve breath control. Structure of each session: 1. introductory phase (3 minutes) * Participants assume a comfortable sitting or lying position. * Brief instruction on proper breathing. 2. training phase (15 minutes). * Participants listen to relaxation music while focusing on the breathing techniques they learned before the session. * Breathing techniques used include those learned during the training: diaphragmatic breathing, controlled expiration lengthening, rhythmic breathing. 3 Relaxation phase (2 minutes) * Gradual exit from the training session, focusing attention on the sensations of the body and mind.
Attention and reaction time
he MOXO Test is a computer-based diagnostic tool used to assess attention and impulse control. Participants respond to various visual and auditory stimuli appearing on the screen, where they must quickly and accurately recognize those that require a response while ignoring others designed to distract them. The test lasts approximately 15-18 minutes and evaluates four key indicators: reaction time, impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention. This allows for a detailed analysis of the participant's cognitive abilities and identification of potential attention deficits.
Postural stability
The assessment will be conducted using a standard, low, stable posturographic platform. The first measurement will be taken in an upright posture with an attempt to lean the body as far forward and backward as possible while maintaining stability. The second measurement involves standing on one leg.
Sleep quality
The impact of the intervention on participants' sleep quality, particularly in the context of shift work, will be assessed using the Polish version of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). This measurement will be conducted twice: before the first night shift and before the last night shift (Mollayeva et al., 2016).
Stress level and mood
Stress levels will be assessed using the PSS-10 Perceived Stress Scale (Cohen S., Kamarck T., Mermelstein R., 1983), adapted to Polish (Juczyński Z., Ogińska-Bulik N., 2009), which evaluates the intensity of stress related to one's life situation over the past month (Matuszczak-Świgoń et al., 2023). Additionally, the PANAS (Positive and Negative Affect Schedule) questionnaire will be used to measure participants' positive and negative affect, assessing the intensity of their emotions before and after the intervention (Piotr Brzozowski, 2019). Subjective mood and the intensity of its changes will also be evaluated using a 0-10 scale before each measurement.
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