Beyond the Self: A VR randomized control trial to foster self- transcendence and physiological synchrony

Self-transcendent experiences, characterized by reduced self-focus and a sense of connection to something greater than oneself, have been linked to positive mental-health outcomes. However, existing induction methods, such as meditation, require sustained training, while pharmacological approaches (e.g., psychedelics) raise legal and ethical issues. Virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a promising alternative for eliciting self-transcendence in controlled settings. In this randomized controlled trial (N = 91), participants engaged in either Ripple (a VR-based meditation experience) or an audio-guided control. Self-transcendence and related psychological outcomes were assessed pre- and post-session through self-report and physiological measures (HR, HRV). During the session, interpersonal cardiac and respiratory synchrony was examined as a physiological marker of connection. Across both conditions, positive affect, compassion, and HRV increased, whereas negative affect, self-salience, criticism, and HR decreased. Notably, the VR condition exhibited greater interpersonal and universal connection than control, supported by self-report measures and higher in-session physiological synchrony. In the full sample, respiratory synchrony predicted stronger interpersonal connection, whereas cardiac synchrony predicted lower self-focus. One-week adverse experiences were rare and mild. Overall, the findings provide evidence that Ripple is a safe, scalable method for eliciting self-transcendent experiences and that physiological synchrony may reflect interpersonal connection during these states.