About Cultured Forest
Mission
Cultured Forest offers nature-based wellbeing solutions to promote sustainability, community and appreciation for biodiversity. Research shows that indoor and outdoor nature-inspired environments promote better health. We create opportunities to educate and motivate others to engage with nature in unique ways using techniques inspired by the forest atmosphere that are also grounded in principles of risk management and safety.
We achieve this mission by creating wellness opportunities for our clients that are inspired by Forest Bathing. Forest Bathing is the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, meaning to “take in the forest atmosphere” through mindfulness exercises that improve productivity, creativity and health.
We believe that mindfully experiencing art, culture and nature empowers individuals and communities by creating a sense of awe. In turn, participants leave with a greater appreciation for nature, and a desire to conserve the environment.
Founder
Brooke Mellen founded Cultured Forest to share 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 using concepts grounded in her risk management background. This can be done through a guided Forest Bathing experience or by building a nature-inspired, sustainable Art Collection.
She has 20 years of experience in Insurance and Art Business with a Masters in Visual Arts Administration from New York University. She has traveled the world studying forests and learning how various communities connect with nature, and uses this knowledge to help others find a sense of community 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).
Brooke previously worked at several organizations including Sotheby’s, Marsh, Jack Shainman Gallery and W.R. Berkley and uses this background in both corporate and arts environments to provide her clients bespoke nature and art immersion experiences. She currently resides in Austin, TX and often works out of New York City.
Forest Bathing In Central Park NYC created by Rebecca Collier - @shelivescolorfully
