In celebration of International Women's Day and #eachforequal, we are inviting our community to try a new activity with us.
Join Cultured Forest for two hours of guided Forest Therapy in the North Woods of Central Park. Forest Therapy is based on the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, which translates to "Forest Bathing" and involves connecting with nature by “Bathing in the Forest Atmosphere”. Studies show that spending time in nature lowers blood pressure, boosts immunity and reduces stress. In this activity, you will indulge with fellow nature lovers in relaxing mindfulness and self-care in a guided outdoor class as we transition to different areas of the park. Plan to see some of the most natural settings of the park, while learning creative activities that allow you to better connect with yourself and the outdoors. Leave feeling centered, connected and more at peace. We are pleased to end this session with a tea ceremony and snacks in the Japanese Forest Bathing tradition.
Attendees must be 12 years or older. Children must be accompanied by an adult. This will require about a mile of hiking with some stairs and walking up and down a few steep inclines and over rocks. We recommend that you wear tennis shoes with traction and dress for the weather, which if cold includes dressing in layers with a hat, gloves and scarf to keep you warm. If it rains wear a rain jacket and bring an umbrella. Please note we will ask you to put your phone on airplane mode to really connect with nature. Photos are allowed, but please get permission from other participants before taking their photo. A professional photographer will likely be in attendance for promotional purposes. Use the restroom before you come, as we will not take a bathroom break on the walk. There is a Starbucks at 100th and Columbus should you need to use it before or after.
Please arrive early to sign a release.
This event is rain or shine.
What to bring:
Camera, bottle of water, sunglasses and any medications you might need
Location:
We will meet at Central Park West & W 103 Street. Look for your guide, Brooke, who will be holding a sign.
Time: 1:00PM-3:00PM
Connect with Brooke:
INTRO TO FOREST THERAPY
March 12th
7PM - 9PM
About Brooke Mellen:
Brooke Mellen founded Cultured Forest to share and merge her passion for culture, art and the outdoors. She advises individuals and corporations on how to have enriching and healing experiences through nature and art. This can be done through a guided Forestbathing experience or by building a nature-inspired, sustainable Art Collection. She has a background in Insurance and Art Business with a Masters in Visual Arts Administration from New York University. She has traveled the world studying how other cultures connect with nature and art and uses this knowledge to help others find better connection and well-being in their lives. She is Certified in Forest Medicine by the International Society of Nature and Forest Medicine (INFOM) and holds a Certificate in Forest Therapy from the International Nature and Forest Therapy Alliance (INFTA). She is certified in Wilderness First Aid by NOLS.
Brooke previously worked at several organizations including Sotheby’s, Marsh, Jack Shainman Gallery and W.R. Berkley and uses this experience in both corporate and arts environments to provide her clients with unprecedented professional experiences. She currently resides in New York City.
About Cultured Forest:
Cultured Forest started with the intent to aid our clients in finding balance and well-being by promoting awe inspiring experiences in Art and Nature. They believe in creating environments and opportunities for growth.
They do this by encouraging clients to find healing opportunities whether it be through the appreciation of a beautiful work of art, a traveling adventure or Forest Bathing. Forest Bathing involves the art of taking in the forest atmosphere through mindfulness exercises that improve productivity, creativity and health.
They believe an enriched life of cultural and outdoor experiences leads to empowered individuals and communities.
