Wellness Tips for the Quieter Season

I was on a call the other day with a group of producers, and the topic of winter and seasonal shifts came up. Someone referred to it as “downtime,” complete with air quotes, and the group shared a knowing laugh. As we know, in this industry, winter is often labeled as downtime, but every farmer knows it’s not quite that simple.

Even in January, there’s no shortage of work. Livestock still needs care, equipment requires maintenance, and plans for the upcoming season don’t make themselves. But winter does bring a shift in the rhythm of farm life—a chance to catch your breath, even if only briefly.

This quieter (but not quiet) season is a good time to think about your well-being and set yourself up for success in the months ahead.

Winter Work, but Make It Sustainable

Even when the days are full, winter tends to offer a little more flexibility. Take advantage of that where you can. If the mornings are slower, use them to focus on your health. That might mean taking a few extra minutes to sit with a coffee before heading out or planning meals that fuel your body instead of grabbing whatever’s handy.

Keeping physically active is important, too, even if your workload is less physical. A brisk walk to check on fences or some stretching after barn chores can keep you feeling strong and ready for the busier season ahead.

The Isolation Factor

Winter can be tough for farmers in ways that aren’t always obvious. Shorter days, less interaction with others, and the grind of daily chores can leave you feeling more isolated than usual. This makes it especially important to be intentional about staying connected.

Pick up the phone and call a fellow farmer, grab lunch with a neighbour, or even join a local meeting or online group. Talking to someone who understands the unique challenges of the job can remind you that you’re not alone in this lifestyle.

If you’re feeling particularly stressed or overwhelmed, don’t wait to reach out for help. There are resources and people who understand the pressures of farming and want to support you.

Planning with Purpose

Winter is also a great time to reflect on the year that’s passed and map out what’s ahead. Maybe it’s making small improvements to your workflow, figuring out new strategies to manage weather challenges, or thinking about ways to make life on the farm a little easier where you can.

Whatever your goals, remember to include yourself in the plan. That might mean finding small moments to pause and recharge, setting aside time for something you enjoy at the end of the day, or finding ways to share the workload when possible—even if just for an hour or two.

Care for the Farmer Behind the Farm

For the farming community in particular, self-care can sometimes feel like an afterthought. But the truth is, looking after yourself is one of the most important things you can do—not just for your health, but for your farm, your family, and ultimately, your future.

Winter might not mean putting your feet up, but it does offer a chance to reset and recharge. Give yourself permission to do so. Whether it’s taking a moment or two to sit quietly, meeting up with an old friend, or tackling a long-overdue health check-up, every small step counts.

This January, take the time to care for yourself. You deserve it—and your farm will thank you for it.