The Science and Art of Keeping It Together

In this workshop, I aim to train the audience to develop inner-world skills to help them manage their mental health during stressful events. The workshop will feature a brief presentation on the role of immersive experiences in mental health care by developing inner-world skills like psychological flexibility, followed by an in-person VR (virtual reality) experience. This will involve various breathwork techniques and storytelling to help centre thoughts and emotions.

This project focuses on introducing cognitive defusion through VR-based breathwork. Cognitive defusion is the process of loosening the grip of thoughts on identity, promoting psychological flexibility by creating distance from thoughts and fostering mindful observation. The artistic environments depicted in the VR experience will respond to our physiological rhythms, like breath. The storytelling component is based on well-established psychological methods, aiding relaxation by bringing awareness to breathing, centring participants in the present moment, and promoting mindful networking.