Numerous studies demonstrate the potential of nature videos to improve well-being. Others show the value of binaural beats in association with nature imagery. Researchers have found special utility for groups with specific needs.
A study found that listening to the 16 Hz binaural beat stimulation while under high vigilance enhanced the behavioral performance by 14% and mitigate the level of stress by 20%. Besides, we found 44% decrease in the stress hormone while listening to binaural beat stimulation under stress, which indicates stress mitigation.
A controlled experiment using volunteers in a hospital assessed the effect on pain of viewing a nature video in contrast to a static blank screen. Subjects who watched the nature scenes evidenced a higher threshold for detecting pain and had substantially greater pain tolerance.
A controlled study of blood donors in a waiting room found that blood pressure and pulse were lower on days when a wall-mounted television displayed a nature video, compared to days with continuous daytime television programs.
“Inmates who watched nature videos reported feeling significantly calmer, less irritable, and more empathetic, and committed 26% fewer violent infractions as compared to those who did not watch the videos.”
“Numerous studies have shown that direct and indirect NE (nature exposure) can improve mood, physical health, and facilitate connectivity with self and society… Given that most prisoners are eventually released into the community, we are obligated not to make them worse.”
The COVID-19 pandemic caused drastic changes to routines on both the global scale, and the personal. Anxiety caused by fear and uncertainty also turned out to be contagious! Researchers and experts recommended a limited news intake, as well as mindfulness exercises or nature visualization to bring oneself back “in the moment.”
As we re-imagined our home environments, indirect nature exposure through video helped alleviate anxiety. Compared to news, drama and other footage, video of wildlife and nature sparked feelings of awe, curiosity, joy and amazement and reduced feelings of anger, stress, low energy and tiredness.
Animals do watch TV, and there are ample videos online to prove it! Why do animals watch video, and what types of programs would they choose?
“Domestic dogs can perceive images on television similarly to the way we do, and they are intelligent enough to recognize onscreen images of animals as they would in real life—even animals they've never seen before.”
“The reasoning behind TV for pets is simple,” says Adam Christman, a New Jersey-based veterinarian. “It’s to keep them free from boredom and anxiety.”
"Visual stimulation in the form of two-dimensional sequences, notably that combining elements of prey items and linear movement, may hold some enrichment potential for domestic cats housed in rescue shelters.”