This study explores the potential of virtual reality (VR) environments to promote emotional restoration in adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) by simulating natural settings. Building on Kaplan's Attention Restoration Theory and therapeutic garden principles, an interactive computer-generated (CG) VR application, Zenctuary VR, was developed to assess its impact on mood, anxiety, and perceived restorative qualities. 42 participants, including 21 adults with ADHD and 21 neurotypical controls, engaged in a 10-minute VR session, with pre- and post-assessment of VR affect, anxiety, and user experience. Results demonstrated significant reductions in state anxiety and negative affect, particularly among the ADHD group, while both groups rated the VR environment as restorative. These findings suggest that immersive VR nature experiences may serve as an effective alternative for emotional regulation, offering promising therapeutic applications for individuals with ADHD.

In this paper we present the design process of a virtual reality experience the aim of which is to have a restorative effect on users. In the simulated natural site, the user can interact with some elements of the environment and can also explore the view. We describe how we tried to create a more realistic sense of nature by relying on high quality graphics, the use of free-roaming space, and naturalistic interactions. During the design process we avoided gameful interactions and instead created playful interactions, while also relying on the multimodal aspect of the virtual reality technology.