People 'Bathe' in Nature to Escape Chaotic News Cycle

Forest therapy guides lead urban residents in mindful activities to reduce stress and reconnect with the natural world.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 1:57am

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A minimalist illustration of a person sitting in a meditative pose, their form defined by glowing neon lines against a dark background, conveying the calming energy of a nature-based wellness practice.Forest bathing sessions provide urban residents a chance to unplug from the news cycle and reconnect with the natural world.Today in Raleigh

In Raleigh, North Carolina, people are turning to the practice of 'forest bathing' or 'Shinrin-yoku' to find respite from the constant barrage of stressful news and reconnect with nature. Led by certified guides, participants engage in meditation, breathing exercises, and sensory exploration of the urban arboretum's gardens, with the goal of reducing anxiety, improving mood, and boosting the immune system.

Why it matters

The growing popularity of forest therapy highlights how many people are seeking ways to unplug from the 24/7 news cycle and digital distractions in order to find calm, clarity, and a sense of connection to the natural world. As urban areas continue to expand, these guided nature immersion experiences provide a valuable outlet for stressed-out residents.

The details

The forest bathing sessions at the JC Raulston Arboretum in Raleigh are led by certified guide Shawn Ramsey. She guides participants through meditative exercises, inviting them to focus on their breath, footsteps, and the natural sounds around them. Participants are also encouraged to crush conifer twigs and smell them, or simply touch the trees, as a way to engage their senses. The activities are based on the Japanese wellness practice of Shinrin-yoku, which has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, lower blood pressure, and boost the immune system.

  • The forest bathing sessions take place on Sunday mornings.
  • The particular session described in the article occurred on April 14, 2026.

The players

Claire Jefferies

A human resources director who participated in the forest bathing session to find respite from the constant news cycle.

Shawn Ramsey

A certified forest therapy guide who led the forest bathing session at the JC Raulston Arboretum.

Alan Mintz

A transportation safety researcher who attended the forest bathing session with a friend.

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What they’re saying

“When I'm here, it's almost like a protective bubble around me. It provides a shield.”

— Claire Jefferies, Human Resources Director

“I invite you to really spend the next 10 minutes just exploring this area. Really focusing on your breath, on your footsteps. All the natural sounds around you. Maybe the manmade sounds too. Thinking about the forest's natural rhythm and how [you] are part of that here in this urban, forested environment.”

— Shawn Ramsey, Certified Forest Therapy Guide

“I think it's important for people to take the opportunity to exist in natural spaces, both to unwind and relax, so that it can be easier to interact with other people. And to take a moment to appreciate beautiful things. That way, hopefully, they can carry that forward and have more of an appreciation for other people and other cultures that they might be less experienced with.”

— Alan Mintz, Transportation Safety Researcher

What’s next

The JC Raulston Arboretum plans to continue offering regular forest bathing sessions on Sunday mornings throughout the year, providing urban residents with an opportunity to disconnect from the news and reconnect with nature.

The takeaway

In an era of constant digital distraction and anxiety-inducing news, the growing popularity of forest therapy highlights the human need to find respite in nature and recenter ourselves. By engaging our senses and focusing on the present moment, these guided nature immersion experiences can help reduce stress, improve mental health, and foster a greater appreciation for the interconnectedness of all living things.