Winter can be hard on the nervous system.Shorter days, colder temperatures, disrupted routines, and increased fatigue can all impact mood, stress levels, and physical comfort — especially for people living with chronic pain, sensory sens...

Living with chronic pain and chronic stress requires more than willpower — it requires compassion, adaptation, and nervous system–informed support.In this episode, Katherine Winkles, CTRS-BH, explores how recreation therapy...

Why Art, Play, and Expression Regulate the Nervous SystemCreativity isn’t about talent — it’s about regulation, expression, and presence.In this episode, we explore how creative flow supports nervous system healing t...

Nature is more than a backdrop for wellness — it’s an active participant in healing.In this episode, we explore how nature functions as a co-therapist, supporting nervous system regulation, emotional processing, and stress recover...

In this episode, we explore one of the most overlooked skills in modern wellness: how to rest with intention. Drawing from the evidence-based foundations of recreation therapy, Katherine breaks down why rest is more than “taking time off...

If you’ve ever felt guilty for wanting more fun, rest, or creativity in your life… this episode is going to feel like a breath of fresh air. Today, we’re breaking down the science of why play isn’t optional — it’s a biological need that keeps y...

A calming, evidence-informed grounding episode to support listeners facing holiday-related stress, sensory overload, grief, financial strain, or complicated family dynamics. Includes a guided check-in, nervous system science, coping strategies,...

If you’ve ever wondered what recreation therapy actually is — or how time outdoors, mindful play, and creativity can support your long-term wellness — today’s episode is the perfect place to start.In this kickoff episode, we break down t...

This brief trailer introduces The Rooted Wild Podcast as a recreation therapy based pod for conversations on leisure benefits, coping strategies and lifestyle adjustments to increase overall life satisfaction. Stay tuned for more from The Roote...