Dylan Mehri of Joon Gardens

The 563rd recipient is Dylan Mehri of Joon Gardens in Newtown, CT. Dylan writes:

What self-care and well-being mean to me as a farmer: “As a farmer, there are a multitude of well-being meanings such as mental health, physical self-care, as financial stability. When we aren't working outside on our farms, we are busy writing grants, building collaborations with other farmers, and providing education services. Striking a work-life balance can be complicated. Finding downtime to appreciate life is critical. That said, working on the farm can provide many moments of healing with the land and ecosystems that is important for well-being.”

How I might use this $250 self-care award: ”With a $250 self-care award, I would schedule 4 visits with a chiropractor to help with my physical alignment and wellness. I had been seeing a chiropractor, but I had to pause visits due to limited revenue.” 

Most important self-care needs that contribute to my well-being as a farmer: "Regular self-care maintenance such as physical therapy, spending time with family and friends, walking in the woods, listening to live music, and having more financial stability would contribute most to my well-being as a farmer. I have had the opportunity to travel to Colombia, which has been meaningful for my life and to learn how other communities work with the land.”

#realfarmercare