Farmstrong launches Live Well Grow Well resource

Module Overview

Farmstrong has produced a new resource called Live Well Grow Well to boost the wellbeing and resilience of people working in horticulture.

The 140pp book contains a wide range of grower stories along with practical tools and tips on topics such as sleep, nutrition and managing stress and pressure, all based on the latest wellbeing science.

It also includes a mental skills toolkit specifically designed to help growers build mental strength and fitness to manage the inevitable ups and downs of life and work.

The growers featured in the book talk honestly about how they deal with the highs and lows of the job, and what they do to look after themselves. The result is a collection of hard-won wisdom and practical advice for keeping well and staying on top of your game.

Farmstrong ambassador and rugby legend Sam Whitelock, who now farms in the Manawatu, says, “What the science tells us is that just like you can get physically fit, you can also become mentally fitter and stronger. That’s why we’ve added a mental skills toolkit at the end of this book. These skills are common in professional sport and very relevant to a results-driven, team environment like horticulture.”

In the book, Nelson apple orchardist Hamish Rush agrees these skills are useful for growers.

“Look at the All Blacks. The reason they are so good is because they get the coaching on how to deal with adversity, how to deal with that stressful moment and how to not let it overwhelm them. Everyone can be a better version of themselves if they have the skills.”

His advice for those starting out in the hort industry? “Create some balance in your life and remember none of us are invincible. We’re all human, and it’s okay to actually ask for help if you need support or to help someone else. Let’s look for those signs that someone’s under pressure and acknowledge it rather than fobbing it off. We’ll go further if we work as a team.”

Sam Whitelock says: “Whether you are a grower or a professional athlete, locking in Farmstrong habits has a positive, cumulative effect over time and makes you much more resilient. That’s why I’m delighted to see our work reaching even more sectors and people with the publication of Live Well Grow Well.”