Farmer Focus: How I stay positive to beat the winter blues
© Richard Stanton I am always weary of winter. The bleak landscape, coupled with continuous rain and lack of sunlight, coincides with negative feelings.
January is very often seen as the darkest of months, especially after the Christmas lights are turned off for another year.
On top of that, working with nature can be very challenging. And dealing with animal health issues, such as the distress of TB, tackling sheep scab, or excessive losses at lambing, are all hard.
See also: Farmer Focus: It is OK not to be OK
About the author
That said, on the whole, I’m very fortunate to have my glass half full. I never take my positive mental health for granted and take steps to ensure a positive mindset is maintained.
Many of us have different methods to deal with our mental wellbeing. Our job can be very isolating and working alone all day can be lonely.
First, I prefer to work with the radio on. Hearing interesting discussions and uplifting music can help the situation.
Second, the ability to leave the farm to see friends and meet new people at various events is so important.
The past month has been very interesting, being able to attend many varied events, meetings, markets, conferences, farm walks, and the Lamma show at the NEC.
Third, it is difficult to disconnect with what happens outside the farmhouse door, so I try to share my concerns and worries with family or friends.
Also, at home, there are several small points I’ve identified to keep myself positive mid-winter. I’m a great believer in positive architecture.
One trick is to position the kitchen table in the prime location in the house, which enjoys plenty of natural light and maximises potential views.
We also ensure there is plenty of green grass in the surrounding fields, for us to enjoy a green oasis. That tricks the mind into believing that it is always August!
Finally, addressing jobs before they become stressful can help. I keep a to-do list and take pleasure in ticking things off. It gives peace of mind that issues are being dealt with.
To finish, I’ll repeat a saying I’ve heard, which is so true: “If you don’t make time for your wellness, you will be forced to make time for your illness”.
Cadwch yn iach (keep healthy).