The 338th recipient is Nailah Marie Ellis of Blessed Up Blooms @blessedupblooms in Atlanta, GA. Nailah writes:

What self-care and well-being mean to me as a farmer: “Self-care and well-being to me mean finding balance. I enjoy being outside for both work and pleasure, so to cultivate equilibrium in warmer months I like finding outside activities that are not related to my professional vocation.. This past summer I started going on nature walks which was a great way to stay active and enjoy the land away from my day to day tasks. In winter months I like to do creative things I don't normally have time for during the growing season. Taking the time to discover myself outside of my business is really important to me. Self-care is expression and it's also rest. It can be hard to step away from the farm because there's always something that needs be done so taking care of myself looks like setting boundaries with myself and how I use my time.”
How I might use this $100 self-care award: “I would use this award to take a crocheting class. I have been looking for a new practical hobby in the colder months and crocheting is just the ticket. There's a craft shop near me that offers a variety of classes and this would be a great way for me to be still this winter while trying something new that I've been wanting to try for a while.”
Most important self-care needs that contribute to my well-being as a farmer: “Time with community. Being an entrepreneur can be lonely and being a farmer on top of that comes with isolation at times. Being in community is important because of support, shared experiences, and accountability. Time with like-minded individuals who can also challenge and sharpen me is such a valuable commodity and beyond finances - time with others is the most important way we can take care of ourselves. Taking the time to address our desires by making boundaries with the demands of life is the balance of self-care and contributes the most to my well-being.”
Comments