Surprisingly, there is a vast selection of virtual reality meditation applications available that often go unnoticed. Many individuals, including those eager to advance down the Noble Eightfold Path, are drawn to the stress alleviation and other advantages that meditation has been shown to furnish. However, the journey to meditation can sometimes feel monotonous, prompting the question: could VR enhance that experience? To assess this, various VR meditation applications were evaluated, each rated on a scale from 1 (a mind lost in self-doubt) to 5 (freedom from the cycle of enduring suffering).

Expert Insight

While knowledgeable about VR technology, the realm of meditation was less familiar. A discussion with Shawna Thibodeau, a meditation instructor and spiritual guide, added depth to the understanding. She highlighted that meditation encompasses various schools of thought, noting that “concentrative meditation” aligns closely with many VR meditation experiences. “Concentrative meditation involves focusing on an anchor, such as the breath,” Thibodeau elaborated. “By directing your attention towards something other than your thoughts, you begin to enhance your awareness. Each return to this anchor strengthens the habit of being present.”

However, a significant distinction exists between VR meditation platforms and traditional meditation methods: the use of visual elements. For example, in the practice of transcendental meditation, the initial guidance is to “close your eyes.” Yet, VR operates in a visual context, making that nearly impossible. Thibodeau mentioned that visualization-focused meditations could potentially thrive in a virtual setting:

“What we do in these scenarios shifts the energy state we’re experiencing. The energy we embody can indeed affect our reality,” Thibodeau clarified. “When you operate from a state of abundance or expansion, such energy can lead to transformative shifts in the external world, inviting synchronicities and opportunities.” I asked her to envision a VR meditation app using this principle, and she suggested, “The visual could depict a scenario, like winning a lottery, prompting a reflection on how that feels to evoke that elevated state.”

Tripp

Tripp stands out as a leading platform within VR meditation environments. It presents a diverse array of experiences aimed at fostering mindfulness, increasing focus, and achieving tranquility. Its offerings include guided meditations and breathing exercises, complemented by mesmerizing visuals reminiscent of a psychedelic journey, infused with a modern, tech-inspired aesthetic. Certain experiences draw inspiration from psychedelic themes, highlighted by a section named “Machine Elves,” which echoes DMT visualizations. Despite its popularity, Tripp felt overwhelming, leaving a sense of “zen-adjacency” instead of genuine calm. Monthly access is priced at $9.99.

Ideal For: Those intrigued by psychedelic experiences but hesitant to partake in real substances.
Enlighten-o-meter Rating: 2.5 out of 5

Meditate

Meditate adopts a straightforward approach, eschewing any theatrics. It offers five concise “experiences,” each lasting around ten minutes, with the goal of enhancing mental clarity, tranquility, and promoting rejuvenation through sound frequencies. Users encounter a soothing voice encouraging relaxation against the backdrop of droning music and stylized natural visuals, which resemble creations from a gaming environment. While it provides relaxation, it often felt somewhat tedious, embodying the gray area between relaxation and monotony, priced at an affordable $1.99.

Ideal For: Those seeking affordable options to dip their toes into meditation.
Enlighten-o-meter Rating: 2 out of 5

Liminal

Liminal takes a more ambitious approach, offering visually impressive graphics that evoke high-quality gaming sensibilities. Its profile includes an extensive variety of interactive and static VR “experiences” categorized by themes such as “awe” and “energy.” I explored the “calm” section but found the mini-games lacking innovation. An attempt at a hypnotic experience fell flat, while another involved tranquil music paired with guided breathing, alongside visuals of virtual birds.

Ideal For: Gamers seeking a blend of relaxation with engaging content.
Enlighten-o-meter Rating: 3 out of 5 (driven largely by experiences outside traditional meditation)

Flowborne VR – Biofeedback Breathing Meditation

For those unsure if their breathing technique is on point, Flowborne VR offers a solution. Users place a controller on their abdomen, which monitors the expansion and contraction of their breathing. More profound breaths correlate to faster traversal through stylized landscapes, ultimately providing feedback on breathing patterns—a compelling incentive to improve. While some may prefer to avoid the pressure of monitoring their breath, for enthusiasts, this app serves as a valuable tool.

Ideal For: Individuals committed to refining their breathing techniques.
Enlighten-o-meter Rating: 3 out of 5

Pillow

Pillow distinguishes itself by delivering a relaxed, meaningful experience, without grandiose claims. Designed to be used while lying flat, it fosters tranquility right from the start. Among its five mini-experiences, “The Meditator” stands out as the best of the bunch. It employs a similar breath-recognition controller to Flowborne VR but features a more appealing indie soundtrack. Another noteworthy segment is “The Fisherman,” which allows users to catch virtual fish, each containing insightful reflections from others regarding evocative questions. This connection through shared experiences, paired with a soothing environment, is truly profound. Priced at $9.99, it offers a distinctly beautiful escape.

Ideal For: Quirky individuals and those dealing with insomnia.
Enlighten-o-meter Rating: 4 out of 5