Rooting stems from forest bathing, or Shinrin-yoku, is a Japanese practice that embodies the healing power of nature by immersing oneself in the tranquility of a forest. Unlike strenuous hikes or outdoor sports, Shinrin-yoku is a gentle, meditative experience focused on connecting with the natural world through all five senses. The term, which translates to "taking in the forest atmosphere," was coined in the 1980s as part of a public health initiative in Japan, though the practice itself is deeply rooted in the nation’s cultural reverence for nature.

In Japanese traditions, forests have long been seen as sacred spaces. Shinto, the indigenous spiritual practice of Japan, holds that natural elements like trees, rocks, and rivers are imbued with kami—spiritual essence or divine energy. This belief, combined with the aesthetic and philosophical principles of Zen Buddhism, nurtured a cultural appreciation for the restorative power of the natural world. Shinrin-yoku draws from this heritage, offering a modern framework for a practice that feels timeless.