Why do people take jobs in the fast-growing field of agriculture? Reasons include the diversity of opportunities, from driving a tractor to becoming a farming logistics expert. Potential candidates get the chance to work with some of the most advanced technology in the world and learn skills that will earn them a career for life. But did you know that agricultural workers are among the healthiest in the country? Here’s why.
Regular exercise
Not all agricultural jobs involve manual labour, but many
do. Lifting and carrying stock or farming equipment is a great way to keep
bones and muscles healthy, as long as it’s done with proper care. Many farming
jobs involve a great deal of walking, one of the simplest and most effective
ways to get fit and stay fit. Regular walking reduces the risk of diabetes,
cardiovascular issues such as stroke or high blood pressure, high cholesterol,
and even coronary heart disease. It also tones muscles and improves general
wellness. A farm manager, for example, might find themselves taking a lengthy
walk daily to oversee operations or visit the different departments of their
working farm.
Even a support role such as a dairy farm adviser would be
expected to drive from farm to farm and may often be active whilst visiting
customers or clients. Taking regular walks around dairies and farms keeps the
blood flowing and the heart healthy, ensuring more benefits than just the
satisfaction of a job well done.
Improved mental health
A 2016 report has found that being outside and interacting
with plants and animals is extremely beneficial for mental health. The NHS has
actually taken this report on as part of their treatments for certain mental
health conditions. By 2020, the NHS hopes to have 800 ‘care farms’ in the UK,
directly supporting patients with mental health concerns by giving them
opportunities to work in agricultural jobs. The three main things that they
find contribute towards a healthy and happy mindset are farming, environmental
conservation, and horticultural roles. Working in any of these fields reduces
symptoms of stress, anxiety and even depression.
This is fantastic news for anyone thinking about moving into
the world of agriculture. Many agricultural jobs involve being outside at some
point during the working week. Some jobs will be focused more on actual
fieldwork, such as the roles of pickers and packers on an orchard. Others might
be based partly in the office, and partly out in the field, depending on the
level of responsibility and what type of record keeping is required. Simply
being out and about and not confined by four walls can be beneficial to a
positive mood, and a fast-paced work environment with plenty of opportunities
helps you thrive and develop yourself to become the best you can be.
Agriculture is one of the fastest growing sectors in the UK right now, making
this the perfect place to stretch yourself if you’ve found previous roles
stagnant or without room for development and growth.
Other mental health benefits include social inclusion
because as an agricultural worker you will always be a part of a productive
team with clear and precisely defined goals. Working towards these goals
together promotes a sense of community, plus improves self-esteem.
Working with farm animals is thought to be particularly
beneficial towards a healthy mind. A team from Norway found that six months
spent working with farm animals had a significant positive impact on mood and
quality of life. Great news if you’re looking at opportunities such as a
shepherd, poultry worker or dairy assistant.
Making a contribution to societal health
It's not all about the benefits to your own health either.
Being part of the agricultural community means you’re making a positive contribution
to society, no matter which aspect of agricultural work you’re involved in. All
aspects of agriculture contribute towards feeding people or providing them with
essential materials, whether you’re a wheat purification expert working in a
lab or a poultry worker specialising in bird husbandry. Even a sales
representative for a large dairy is helping to continue this process by
matching the right products to the right buyers. The whole world needs
high-quality, safe food. Agriculture is the key to this, so being a part of it
means you’re contributing towards the health of others, as well as
yourself.
Farming is an increasingly ‘green’ endeavour, with a big
focus on improving soil quality, reducing emissions, becoming more energy
efficient and lowering the levels of waste produced. This includes reusing
materials where possible. Agriculture, therefore, contributes both to the
economy and the environment, and every year it becomes more and more
environmentally friendly. This brings a sense of peace of mind and satisfaction
that’s difficult to find in other sectors of the workforce. The knowledge that
the work you are doing is making the world a better place is sure to promote a
positive outlook.
Another way in which agricultural workers contribute to society
is by developing an understanding of the delicate balance of nature, the cycle
of the seasons, and the land. Agriculture isn’t about exploiting resources but
about making the most of them. This may include knowing how to maximise
harvests, understanding crop rotation, learning about animal welfare; a range
of different skills and knowledge depending on the specific role. Understanding
the impact humans have on the natural world and cultivated farmland is crucial
to the future of farming and agriculture. Becoming a part of that ensures the
continued future of humanity, for generations to come.
Could a job in agriculture be beneficial to you?
A healthy mind and body naturally complement each other. Feeling physically healthy improves mental health, whilst feeling confident in yourself helps you stay on top of your physical health in return. Working first-hand in the agricultural sector helps you take a holistic approach to being healthy, a benefit which is difficult to find in many other work sectors. If agriculture seems like the right avenue for you to follow, you can do so safe in the knowledge that not only will you be embarking on an exciting career opportunity that may last a lifetime, but that it's one which will reward you with both physical and mental well-being too.