RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — Claire Jefferies sought solace from the turmoil caused by the ongoing war in Iran and the escalating gas prices by immersing herself in nature through the practice of forest bathing. At the J.C. Raulston Arboretum in Raleigh, North Carolina, she described her experience as being enveloped in a “protective bubble” created by the natural surroundings, highlighting the sense of peace that the environment provides.
The forest bathing session, led by certified forest therapy guide Shawn Ramsey, consisted of about a dozen participants. If the sound of a tiny brass bell rang, it signaled the group to pause and engage in meditation and breathing exercises while connecting with their surroundings. “I invite you to really spend the next 10 minutes just exploring this area,” Ramsey instructed. “Focus on your breath, your footsteps, and all the natural sounds around you, including any manmade noises.” Her guidance emphasized being aware of the forest's natural rhythm and recognizing participants' integral part in the urban, forested environment.
Forest bathing is rooted in the Japanese wellness practice of Shinrin-yoku, which is known for its myriad benefits, including stress reduction, mood enhancement, lower blood pressure, and improved immune function. Despite the arboretum's location in a bustling area of the city, Ramsey believes that the advantages of connecting with nature remain significant. Throughout the session, she encouraged the group to engage sensorially with the environment—crushing conifer twigs between their fingers to release their aromatic scent, or simply touching the textures of various trees.
Transportation safety researcher Alan Mintz attended the session with a companion, emphasizing the importance of stepping away from societal pressures and focusing on the natural world for relaxation. “It’s critical for people to exist in natural spaces to unwind and ease their interaction with others,” he said, enjoying the dappled sunlight pouring through the tree canopy. Mintz also noted that taking time to appreciate the beauty in nature could foster greater appreciation for both individuals and cultures that one may be less familiar with.
Jefferies echoed Mintz's sentiments as she encouraged a friend to refrain from discussing current events while they meandered beneath the graceful treetops. “Returning to nature and recognizing its healing power reminds us of our connection to something larger,” she spoke of her perspective as a mother of a 9-year-old son. Jefferies articulated the significance of realizing how interconnected life is within the ecosystem and underscored the importance of mindful actions, stating that nature demonstrates how life forms only take what they need.
This immersive experience at the J.C. Raulston Arboretum allowed participants to step back from daily stressors and instead, engage deeply with the natural environment. Forest therapy initiatives like these are increasingly recognized as vital means for managing the chaos and anxiety prevalent in modern society. As more individuals recognize the value of forest bathing, it offers a simple yet effective remedy for mental and emotional well-being, reinforcing the fundamental connection between humanity and nature.
