Practice Self-Care to Aid in Combating Stress
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by Taylor Schaefer, Wisconsin's 75th Alice in Dairyland
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While the concept of self-care has been around for years, it has started becoming a bigger part of the conversation about mental health. We are becoming more aware of how stress affects overall health and looking for ways to reduce it. In fact, according to ASD Online, self-care Google searches increased 250% from 2019 to 2020.
The Oxford Dictionary defines self-care as “the practice of taking an active role in protecting one's own well-being and happiness, in particular during periods of stress.” Self-care is vital to reducing stress, improving mental health, and being your best self. It does not have to take a long time or cost money. Think about what helps you recharge, relax, or unwind. This could be knitting, a warm bath, yoga, reading, calling a loved one, listening to a podcast, or any activity that brings you comfort. As the 75th Alice in Dairyland, I will be traveling more than 30,000 miles this year, visiting farmers, producers, and consumers throughout the state. I often sneak in time to practice my favorite forms of self-care, quilting, fishing, and spending time farming with my younger brother, to keep me feeling my best. The next time you have a few minutes of downtime during your day, I encourage you to spend it on yourself. You deserve it!
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The University of New Hampshire has some great tips for farmers - and anyone - to reduce stress:
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If you need support, the Wisconsin Farm Center can help connect Wisconsin farmers and their families to mental health resources. For immediate support, contact the 24/7 Farmer Wellness Helpline at (888) 901-2558.
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Please take a minute to share on your Facebook page!
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Find something that brings you joy!
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Spending time on things that you enjoy is an important part of self care. Find an event or activity in your local area that brings you joy. Look for local bands, nature hikes, or county fairs. Allow yourself some time. As Alice in Dairyland said, you deserve it!
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For those of you near Spring Green, come hear poetry and a panel of farmers discussing farming in today’s ever-changing world.
The culture of agriculture: Family, farms, and farming in a changing world
August 8 | 6:30 p.m.
Octagon Barn, E4350 Horseshoe Rd | Spring Green, WI
James Ridge, Sarah Day, and Daniel Smith will present poems from Smith’s work ANCESTRAL written from the perspectives of Midwestern farmers. The evening will end with a panel of local farmers responding to Dan’s body of work and discussing their perspectives on farming and the pressures of farming in today’s ever-changing world. The panel will be moderated by Joy Kirkpatrick.
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