Gabriela Batista Oliveira of Natick Farm

The 424th recipient is Gabriela Batista Oliveira of Natick Farm in Natick, MA. Gabriela writes:

What self-care and well-being mean to me as a farmer: “During the height of the season, I find myself sometimes running on empty while surrounded by such abundance. It can be quite ironic, working with vegetables and herbs and flowers that fulfill physical, spiritual and mental health for those that are receiving yet feeling burnt out from providing those crops and goods to the folks that purchase them. Self care would allow for body work, specifically some massage therapy to help heal my aching back and knees, and maybe even allow for a few dinners from a nearby restaurant. I find myself struggling to make meals after a long tiring day.”

How I might use this $100 self-care award: “I imagine myself using this $100 self care fund to go towards a massage. After 5 years or so farming, I’ve noticed the toll its taken on my body and would appreciate the opportunity to use some $$ towards a massage therapist.”

Most important self-care needs that contribute to my well-being as a farmer: "Major self care needs as a farmer include, having employer provided health insurance and if that’s not available then a health stipend to spend on services that help heal the mind, spirit and body. Other self care needs are community events that fill my spirit and especially those rooted at the farm or another growing operation. Those sorts of events bring me joy and serve as a spiritual self care moment. Other means of self care would be access to pools, or oceans, or lakes, or bodies of water during those hot hot hot summer work days. A nice refresh in water is always lovely.”

#realfarmercare