Blanca García-Rinder of Sister Garden

The 511th recipient is Blanca García-Rinder of Sister Garden in Portland, OR. Blanca writes:

What self-care and well-being mean to me as a farmer: “When farmers can take time to stretch, soak, be warmed or cooled we are able to breathe deep and enjoy this beautiful earth we work with and for. Taking the time for some self-care isn’t traditional in our line of work. It’s hard to break the stigmas and expectations - hard to pause. Bringing ourselves back into the center of the farm is crucial - to make sure that we and our farmmates are able to reset and maintain flexibility and strength throughout the seasons. Farmers can help each other by centering mental healthcare, good nutrition, access to exercise and of course, comfort in the field.”

How I might use this $100 self-care award: “I would use the award towards ice fishing gloves to keep out the cold/wet and lined insoles or lined boots to keep my feet warm next winter.”

Most important self-care needs that contribute to my well-being as a farmer: "The ability to stay warm in the field. As a person with arthritis and sensitivity to cold, it will be so helpful to have warm feet and hands while working.”

#realfarmercare