Therapeutic Horticulture • Sensory Designs • Experiential Education
The Terra Sano™ R.O.O.T.S. System
Connecting People, Plants, and Purpose
The Terra Sano R.O.O.T.S System brings together therapeutic horticulture, sensory design, and experiential education. It connects thoughtfully designed spaces with curriculum, practical activities, and facilitator training, helping organizations and individuals put their sensory landscapes to use.
The Five R.O.O.T.S. Concepts
R — Regulation:
Explore sensory preferences and practice grounding through plant care, predictable routines, and activities paced to individual comfort.
O — Orientation:
Connect with the immediate environment through seasonal cues, familiar plants, and awareness of place and routine.
O — Observation:
Build curiosity and attention by noticing textures, colors, scents, growth, and change.
T — Tactile Exploration:
Discover through hands-on experiences with plants, soil, and natural materials, with alternatives for participants who prefer limited touch.
S — Sustenance:
Explore what plants and people need to thrive through care, nourishment, shared responsibility, and everyday habits.
One System. Six Core Settings.
From the physical setting to the activities within it, the R.O.O.T.S System provides a coordinated approach to creating spaces people can explore, care for, and return to building skills and connections through regular engagement with nature.
Encourage grounding, routine, reflection, and skill-building through repeatable activities that complement existing care, with particular attention to recovery centers.
Invite reminiscence, conversation, gentle movement, and meaningful participation through familiar plants and accessible tasks.
Enrich guest experiences and retreat programming through sensory discovery and guided horticultural activities.
Connect plant science with discovery and practical skills through activities adapted for diverse learning and sensory needs, including those of neurodivergent children with autism, ADHD, or dyslexia.
Bring families, neighbors, and community groups together through shared learning, plant care, and stewardship.
Create opportunities for focused breaks, collaboration, and connection through plant-based workshops and shared care.
The R.O.O.T.S System can be used with Sensory Labs™, existing landscapes, indoor plantscapes, or portable containers. Curricula, workbooks, and sensory guides help facilitators adapt experiences to participants’ ages, abilities, interests, and goals.Terra Sano-led workshops and staff training support implementation.
Rooted in Connection. Designed for Engagement.
