Max Bachvarova
Pairing the Demands of Farming with Softness and Slowness
In Topsham, Maine, Max Bacharova is growing food with intention. Their approach is rooted in caring for their body, the land they work on, and the people around them.
When I care for myself by prioritizing my well-being and comfort, they say, I’m able to farm in more sustainable ways.
That care shows up in many ways. It’s bodywork, such as chiropractic appointments, massage, and physical training to maintain mobility and reduce pain. It’s small, but vital, accommodations, like waterproof gloves that ease sensory stress or fidget tools that help them stay grounded while working farmers markets. It’s hydration, warmth, and nourishment: hand warmers on cold mornings, mugs of tea, and nourishing meals.
Self-care also looks like nourishing myself and my community, Max says. It’s spending time intentionally cooking the vegetables I grow and harvest, buying ingredients grown and produced by other farmers and vendors in my area, and sharing meals with the people I love. It’s spending my downtime reading a book that teaches me something new. It’s leaning in to the small conversations we hold and sharing bits of knowledge that help us all to grow.
With support from Real Farmer Care, Max plans to schedule recurring chiropractic appointments and stock up on everyday comforts, like warmers, tea, and maybe even a long-wanted nonfiction book. The Serviceberry by Robin Wall Kimmerer’s new book on abundance and reciprocity, is at the top of their list. And yes, a blueberry hand pie from a favorite vendor at market might make its way in, too.
Max's approach to farming is honest and deeply personal, recognizing that tending to the body and mind is just as essential as tending to crops.
Self-care and well-being mean that I pair the hard demands of farming with softness and slowness at every opportunity.
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Instagram: @whatleyfarm
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