Luca Gasperi of ARTFarm

The 542nd recipient is Luca Gasperi of ARTFarm in Christiansted, U.S. Virgin Islands. Luca writes:

What self-care and well-being mean to me as a farmer: “For me, self-care and well-being in farming means recognizing that I am as much a part of the farm’s ecosystem as the soil, plants, and animals, and I need to take care of myself in the same way. It’s about making the time to step away from the daily demands of the crops and livestock, which can sometimes take a surprising amount of effort. Taking a break helps me reset mentally and physically, especially during the height of the season. Well-being also means connecting with people beyond the farm—whether that’s talking with neighbors, spending time with family, or attending community events. Those moments of interaction help me stay grounded and feel supported. Farming is full of purpose, but it can also be isolating and all-consuming, so finding space for joy, rest, and human connection is essential for my resilience and long-term commitment to the work.”

How I might use this $250 self-care award: ”I would use the $250 to invest in a month of massage therapy. Farming is physically demanding and often leaves little time to address the wear and tear on our bodies. Massage helps relieve chronic tension, support injury prevention, and provides a rare opportunity for me to slow down and focus on my own health. This kind of care helps me stay strong physically, which supports my current talk therapy treatment which I have received through Betterhelp for the past year. Together, these will support me both physically and mentally so I can continue showing up for my land and community with energy and balance.” 

Most important self-care needs that contribute to my well-being as a farmer: "One of the most important self-care needs for me is simply giving myself the permission to take a break. Farming often demands long hours, constant vigilance, and a sense that the work is never done. But allowing space for rest, reflection, or even just a day away without guilt is essential to sustaining my energy, health, and passion for agriculture. Building that pause into the rhythm of the farm helps me show up more fully and avoid burnout over the long term.”

#realfarmercare