Kristin Hotchkiss ~Founder

I am a certified 200-hour yoga instructor with nearly 20 years of experience leading yoga classes in the Connecticut area. With a background in public health, I’ve always been passionate about whole-person wellness—how movement, mindfulness, and time in nature support not just physical health, but mental and emotional well-being too.

As an avid hiker and outdoor enthusiast, it felt like a natural progression to take my yoga practice beyond the mat and into the wild. This led me to create Root & Align, a space where people can reconnect with themselves, nature, and each other through yoga, mindfulness, and outdoor experiences. I am certified with the Kripalu School of Outdoor Leadership as a Mindful Outdoor Guide, which allows me to offer forest bathing and guided nature experiences. By blending yoga, breath work, and mindfulness with nature immersion, I help people slow down, root into the present moment, and align with their truest selves.

At Root & Align, I believe true well-being is about more than just physical health—it’s about feeling grounded, present, and connected. Yoga and time in nature have been powerful tools in my own life, helping me navigate challenges, find clarity, and cultivate a sense of balance. My purpose is to share these tools with others, creating space for people to pause, breathe, and rediscover a deeper connection with themselves, the world around them, and a like-minded community. I am passionate about fostering a sense of belonging, where people can come together, support one another, and grow—both individually and collectively. Whether on the mat or in the forest, my goal is to guide others toward healing, growth, and a greater sense of ease in their daily lives.

About Forest Bathing

Forest bathing, or Shinrin-yoku (a Japanese term meaning "taking in the forest atmosphere"), is the practice of immersing oneself in nature to promote mental and physical well-being. It involves walking slowly and mindfully in a forest or natural setting, focusing on the sights, sounds, smells, and sensations to connect with nature.

A forest bathing walk is not a hike or a workout; we move slowly and mindfully. A series of guided activities, called invitations, are offered along the way to assist you in finding your own authentic way of interacting with the land. The walk follows the standard sequence developed by Kripalu School of Mindful Outdoor Leadership and the experience often ends with a tea ceremony, where you'll enjoy a hand-crafted herbal tea blend.

Research has shown that forest bathing has numerous health benefits:

  • Stress Reduction

  • Boosts Immune Function

  • Improves Mental Health

  • Cognitive Benefits

  • Improved Sleep

  • Enhanced Cardiovascular Health

  • Better Respiratory Health