Rachel recommends: Rooted by Lyanda Lynn Haupt
So I recently finished the book “Rooted” by Lyanda Lynn Haupt, and it’s basically about reconnecting with the natural world in our increasingly digital lives. Haupt calls this approach “rootedness” – it’s this practice of becoming more present and connected to the earth beneath our feet. She offers this gentle invitation to weave more nature awareness into everyday life, even if you’re living in the middle of a city.
The book is part personal journey, part practical guide. Haupt shares her own experiences with everything from urban birdwatching to mindful walking to growing plants. There’s this lovely section where she talks about “terra incognita” – basically getting to know the birds, plants, and critters that live right in your neighbourhood that most people never notice.
She draws inspiration from all over – ecology, Buddhism, indigenous wisdom, and even poets like Mary Oliver. But it’s never preachy or overly academic. It feels more like having a conversation with a really observant friend who’s excited to share all these little wonders they’ve discovered. What stuck with me most were her practical suggestions for developing what she calls “rootedness practices” – simple rituals and habits that help you slow down and tune into the natural world. Things like sitting quietly outside for a few minutes each day, learning the names of local plants, or even just feeling the soil with your hands.
If you’re feeling that digital burnout or just sensing a disconnect from the natural world, this book offers a really accessible way to start rebuilding that relationship without having to go live in a cabin in the woods. It’s about finding nature where you are, right now, even if that’s just a city park or the weeds growing through cracks in the sidewalk.
