Wellness Tools

Develop a Strong Social Network

  • Take 15 minutes each day for uninterrupted conversation with a spouse or family member.

  • Get involved or stay connected with a friend or group of friends.

  • Don’t shut out friends and family.

  • Reconnect with old friends.

Be Aware

  • Know your stressors and how your body reacts to stress.

  • Accept that some stressors are out of your control. Work towards a solution instead of focusing on things you cannot change.

Nurture Yourself

  • Exercise 20 minutes or more daily (walk, swim, ride a bike, etc).

  • Get regular medical checkups with a local healthcare provider.

  • Eat a healthy, nutritious diet.

  • Spend time outside in the fresh air.

  • Get plenty of sleep.

  • Find hobbies or activities that you enjoy and that take your mind off things that create stress.

Establish Goals

  • Spend 10 minutes to plan your day and prioritize your tasks.

  • Plan ahead for stressful seasons and delegate work appropriately.

  • Discuss needs of the farm operation but do not let them occupy all other aspects of life.

  • Seek constructive feedback on your farm operation and ways to grow or improve it.

  • When you find yourself becoming overwhelmed by a situation, take a step back to simply assess what is before you. Brainstorm possible solutions, and then break them down into manageable steps. Then move forwards, one step at a time.

Cultivate a Productive Mind

  • Take regular 5-10 minute breaks in your day to relax and recharge.

  • Share concerns with a counselor or other professional.

  • Learn to say NO to extra commitments.

  • Use helpful self-talk. Tell yourself you can adapt and overcome any challenge. Remind yourself you’ve faced hard times before and you can do it again.

  • Practice deep breathing to calm your mind and help you focus. Inhale deeply five times and exhale slowly. This can also help improve sleep and can help with chronic pain.

  • Reflect on any moment that made you feel comforted and content. Close your eyes and relive that moment.

Our resources are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are in a crisis, please visit your local emergency department or call 911 immediately.