IvoRi Schley of Afro Agriculture

The 416th recipient is IvoRi Schley of Afro Agriculture in Atlanta, GA. IvoRi writes:

What self-care and well-being mean to me as a farmer: “As an urban agrarian, self-care is needed because burn out is very real and striking! I agree with Tricia Hersey's book Rest is Resistance! Capitalism today encourages a rat race, "there can only be one" competition mentality, work hard, rest when you're dead. Farming, on the contrary, is abundant. Farming is a very laborious job and volunteers are relied on and appreciated. Farmers must remember to take foot baths, stretch, sleep, wear proper protection equipment, eat healthy, and sit still sometimes.”

How I might use this $100 self-care award: “As a recipient of the $100 award, I would sit still outside and visit my local spa and sit in a hot tub and sauna for a day.  In metro Atlanta, Jeju Spa is an Asian themed luxury experience that offers full body massages, a nail spa, and crystal rooms. I would bring a book and lounge for the entire day. Spa, food, and hammock.”

Most important self-care needs that contribute to my well-being as a farmer: "As a farmer, my most important self care needs are mobility, sleep, and eating healthy. Stretching is important! I want to use my full body, from headstands to pull ups to low squats. We move around so much experimenting methods for best productivity. I must remember to rest the brain, drink tea, and eat the greens I worked so hard for. Farming is a reciprocal nature; good growing habits heal the land and the produce heals us in return. Farming is service work, it's a beautiful thing to feed self and neighbors. Rest is recharge battery for the soul. Don't forget to be still.”

#realfarmercare