Kenzie James of Relinoca Farms

The 628th recipient is Kenzie James of Relinoca Farms in Sumter, SC. Kenzie writes:

What self-care and well-being mean to me as a farmer: “Self-care and well-being, in the context of farming and ranching, means intentionally caring for my physical and mental health so I can continue this work safely, sustainably, and long term. This is especially important to me as I am a veteran and deal with service-connected physical and mental ailments daily. I own a plant nursery and it is more than a job; it is physically demanding, mentally exhausting, and often emotionally isolating. Long hours, repetitive labor, unpredictable weather, financial pressures, and the responsibility of caring for living plants and land can take a significant toll if recovery and rest are not prioritized. For me, self-care begins with acknowledging that the my well-being is essential to the success of the farm. When pain, fatigue, or stress go unaddressed, they affect my decision-making, productivity, and safety. Over time, this can lead to injury, burnout, or the inability to continue planting at all. Taking care of myself is not a luxury; it is a necessary part of maintaining a viable business operation. Physical well-being is especially important in my line of business. Tasks such as lifting, bending, standing for long periods, and working in all weather conditions create ongoing strain on the body. Supporting muscle recovery, mobility, and pain management allows me to work more effectively and reduce the risk of long-term injury. When my body is functioning well, I can focus on the quality of my work rather than managing discomfort. Mental and emotional well-being are equally important. Owning a nursery requires constant problem-solving, adaptability, and resilience. Stress and mental fatigue can accumulate quietly, especially during peak seasons or challenging periods. Practicing self-care helps me manage stress, stay grounded, and maintain a positive mindset, which directly impacts how I approach challenges and interact with customers and my community.”

How I might use this $100 self-care award: ”I plan to use this award to support a short rest and recovery retreat at a local botanical gardens area (Magnolia Plantation) in Charleston, South Carolina. This retreat would provide a quiet, restorative environment that aligns closely with my work as a grower, allowing me to reconnect with nature while focusing on rest, reflection, and recovery. Being in a botanical setting reinforces why I grow plants in the first place and provides mental reset without leaving the agricultural context. Purposeful rest is not a vacation; it is a necessary tool for long-term farm viability. Time away from daily physical demands allows my body to recover from chronic strain, reduce inflammation, and prevent injury. Just as importantly, stepping back helps reduce mental fatigue, improve focus, and restore perspective, which leads to better decision-making and safer work practices once I return. Investing in rest and recovery directly supports my ability to steward the land responsibly and continue farming long term. By caring for my well-being, I am better equipped to serve my customers, manage my nursery sustainably, and remain resilient through demanding seasons.” 

Most important self-care needs that contribute to my well-being as a farmer: "The most important self-care needs that contribute to my well-being as a farmer are physical recovery, mental rest, and burnout prevention. Working in a nursery involves continuous physical strain from lifting, bending, standing for long hours, and working in all weather conditions. Over time, this creates chronic muscle tension, fatigue, and soreness that, if left unaddressed, can increase the risk of injury and long-term pain. Supporting physical recovery is essential for maintaining mobility, strength, and the ability to work safely. Mental rest is equally critical. Owning a nursery requires constant decision-making, problem-solving, and adaptability, often under financial pressure and unpredictable conditions. Without intentional time to step away and reset, stress and mental fatigue can accumulate, affecting focus, judgment, and overall well-being. Dedicated rest helps restore clarity, patience, and resilience, which are necessary for effective farm management. Burnout prevention is the intersection of both physical and mental care. Taking purposeful time for recovery allows me to return to my work more focused, energized, and capable of meeting the demands of the farm. These self-care needs are not optional; they are foundational to sustaining my health, maintaining safe work practices, and continuing to farm long term. Prioritizing recovery and rest ultimately supports the longevity and success of my farming operation.”

#realfarmercare