On Air by Yoga For First Responders, shines a light on the importance of mental health and wellness for public safety personnel. In this show, we explore the world of yoga and its powerful impact on first responders, all while maintaining a sense of humor and lightheartedness because let's face it, we don't take ourselves too seriously.You know all too well the toll that the job can take on your mental and emotional well-being. That's why we're here to help you find balance and peace of mind through the modality of yoga.We'll be chatting with experts in the field, sharing stories and insights from real-life first responders, and offering practical tips and techniques to help you take control of your mental health and wellness.So, join us as we delve into the world of yoga and its transformative power for first responders. We're here to help you unleash resilience amidst the chaos.
Does Online Training Actually Work?
During the podcast, the hosts discuss the challenges of teaching online compared to in-person classes. They highlight the energetic and interactive nature of in-person teaching, where a dynamic dialogue between the teacher and students fosters engagement. The teacher can draw inspiration from the students' energy, creating a more immersive experience. In contrast, online teaching can feel impersonal and robotic, with the teacher reduced to a "robotic head in the corner of the screen" and repetitive PowerPoint slides.This lack of interaction and personal connection can lead to distractions and disengagement, such as students using their phones during online classes. Furthermore, the hosts acknowledge that while online training has improved in effectiveness, it cannot fully replace the benefits of in-person teaching. They recognize that as a yoga instructor, it is impossible to be with students 24/7, emphasizing the importance of equipping them with tools they can use independently. However, they also note that the shift to online teaching has allowed them to focus more on practical aspects and hands-on practice during in-person sessions. By moving certain components, like cultural competency classes, online, they can allocate more time during in-person sessions for practice teaching and breaking down alignment. Overall, the hosts appreciate the value of incorporating both in-person and online elements in their teaching approach, despite the challenges and limitations of online teaching.The hosts also share their personal experience with online training and how their perspective has evolved. They discuss the previous perception of online training as ineffective and dull, often featuring narrators who seemed to lecture to a computer monitor. Online training was often seen as a mere checkbox requirement rather than a meaningful learning experience. However, they highlight the positive changes they have witnessed in recent years, particularly in the quality of online training. They describe participating in online courses where they felt mentored and engaged in one-on-one conversations with the instructor. They acknowledge the effectiveness of online training and attribute its growth to advancements in technology and the shift towards more interactive and engaging online learning experiences.Free YFFR Instructor Guide: https://yogaforfirstresponders.activehosted.com/f/36To Be Magnetic: Mentioned in this episode:To Be Magnetic 15% Off Monthly Link: https://login.tobemagnetic.com/a/2147524106/GGSGNa6h
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2/1/2024 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 34 seconds
Mastering Breathwork for Optimal Performance
In this powerful episode, Olivia Mead and Eric Brenneman from Yoga for First Responders join Jeremy Sanders from the Crew First Culture podcast to discuss the importance of breath work and breathing techniques. They dive into the science behind these techniques and provide valuable insights on when and why to use them. Whether you're a first responder or someone looking to enhance your mental and physical resilience, this episode is a must-listen. Press play to begin your training.Timestamps[00:00:34] Breathing and breath work.[00:05:25] Physiology of breath.[00:07:25] Taking care of first responders.[00:08:42] Importance of diaphragmatic breathing.[00:15:58] The effectiveness of O2.[00:18:46] HRV and its importance.[00:19:17] Heart rate variability.[00:24:04] Heart rate variability and coherence.[00:28:19] Training the subtle body.[00:29:07] Diaphragmatic breathing and its benefits.[00:32:57] Training the diaphragm.[00:38:00] Activate the Calm Button.[00:42:09] Learning the language of breath.[00:43:24] Three-part breathing technique.[00:43:57] Three-part breath technique.[00:48:41] Breathing techniques under stress.[00:50:43] The stress response and survival.[00:54:03] Recovery breath technique.[00:57:19] Cognitive declarations and HRV.[01:02:57] The science behind the two-second hold.[01:04:55] Breath retention for high performance.[01:08:10] The physiological sigh.[01:12:15] Physiological sigh and calm button.[01:15:32] CO2 Tolerance and Stamina.[01:22:09] The Bohr effect in firefighting.[01:23:35] Box breathing and its benefits.[01:29:07] Training the Bohr effect.[01:31:01] Moving and breathing techniques.[01:32:49] Breath work for anxiety.[01:34:47] The impact of yoga on PTSD symptoms.[01:40:28] Tactical and practical training.
1/11/2024 • 1 hour, 45 minutes, 45 seconds
The Overwatch Collective
The podcast features an interview with Eric, the president of Yoga for First Responders and Greg Grogan the President of The Overwatch Collective. Eric discusses the organization's mission and the work they do to provide mental health and wellness tools to first responders, military personnel, and medical professionals. The conversation also touches on the misconceptions surrounding yoga and its physical and mental benefits.The Overwatch Collective's mission: Normalizing PTSD, suicide awareness and mental health among First Responders and Military through our podcast. All money goes toward funding therapy and introducing resources to those in need. https://www.theoverwatchcollective.com
11/17/2023 • 1 hour, 47 minutes, 28 seconds
The Mind-Body Connection: Finding Strength and Connection in Difficult Times
In this episode of The Boob Show, hosts welcome guests Maggie Eastman and Sarah Hall, who share a common background in the public safety world, as well as being YFR instructors and cancer survivors. The guests engage in a deep discussion about their personal growth journeys and how they have taken control of their lives. They share their transformation from feeling like victims of trauma to becoming survivors and advocates for others. A key theme throughout the conversation is the importance of focusing on what they can control, particularly from a stoic philosophy perspective.
10/12/2023 • 1 hour, 32 minutes, 17 seconds
Training for Life: Grounding and Awareness
In this episode, the hosts emphasize the significance of incorporating yoga and mindfulness practices into everyday life to effectively deal with stressors and challenges. They share a personal story where one of the hosts took a chance on an adventure that didn't go as planned, highlighting the analogy of life's twists and turns. They discuss how shortcuts or an easier path may not yield the same results or be beneficial for overall well-being.The hosts stress the importance of finding one's own way through life's twists and turns, drawing inspiration from the host in the story who eventually found their way home. They express gratitude for moments of guidance and relief, such as stumbling upon a burrito truck or seeing a Starbucks on the horizon, which serve as reminders to stay present and aware of one's surroundings.Additionally, the hosts address the desire to live a better and more enjoyable life. They acknowledge that integrating yoga and mindfulness into daily routines can be challenging for some individuals. However, they suggest that instead of merely trying to get through the day, people should aim to find joy and fulfillment in the present moment.The hosts also discuss the philosophy of yoga, which teaches that nothing is inherently good or bad. They address concerns raised by individuals who question how this philosophy applies to serious issues like cancer or war. They emphasize that the philosophy does not dismiss or undermine the seriousness of such issues but encourages individuals to approach them with awareness and a growth mindset.Furthermore, the hosts delve into the daily practice of yoga and mindfulness. They explain that consistent effort and dedication are required to reap the benefits. They share their own experiences and how incorporating yoga and breathwork into their daily routines has helped them stay more aware and connected to their experiences, allowing them to navigate challenges from a higher perspective.Overall, the hosts emphasize that incorporating yoga and mindfulness practices into everyday life can effectively navigate stressors and challenges. They highlight the importance of staying present, finding joy in the present moment, and approaching life's twists and turns with awareness and a growth mindset.
9/28/2023 • 1 hour, 11 minutes, 1 second
Self Worth and Self Investment: The Link
In this episode, the host explores the significance of prioritizing self-care and self-work as a means to effectively support others. They emphasize that by placing importance on oneself and engaging in necessary internal work, individuals can enhance their self-worth and genuinely celebrate the success of others. This enables them to wholeheartedly dedicate their energy to others and serve the public in the way they intend. The host also challenges the conventional definition of self-care, which often revolves around indulgent activities like massages and facials. They argue that self-care should be redefined as "care of self" and encompass activities that prioritize personal growth, joy, and sustainability. By taking the time to prioritize their own well-being, individuals can better fulfill their roles as partners, family members, employees, and members of their communities.Furthermore, the episode emphasizes that neglecting self-work and self-care is actually more self-centered than engaging in these practices. It is important to recognize that prioritizing one's physical and mental health is essential for longevity and the ability to be present for loved ones. By dedicating just 15 minutes a day to self-care, individuals can extend their time on Earth and be there for those who depend on them. Overall, the episode underscores the notion that prioritizing self-care and self work is not selfish, but rather a necessary step towards effectively supporting others. It challenges societal norms that discourage individuals from prioritizing their own well-being and encourages listeners to redefine self-care as an act of self-love and care for oneself.
9/14/2023 • 1 hour, 11 minutes, 48 seconds
YogaShield Rx: Bridging the Gap - First Responders and the Healthcare Industry
In this episode, the Olivia and Eric discuss Yoga For First Responders' newest mission called YogaShield RX, which focuses on bringing resilience training to medical professionals. They are joined by a surgeon, Dr. Shawn Diamond, to talk about stress, resilience, and burnout in the medical field. They highlight the overlap between Yoga For First Responders and the needs of medical providers, emphasizing the importance of addressing these issues. The hosts express their excitement for this new venture and the potential impact it can have on the well-being of medical professionals. Overall, this episode provides an insightful look into the challenges faced by medical providers and the role of yoga in promoting resilience.Timestamps[00:00:31] Bringing resilience training to medical professionals.[00:06:34] Growing up with the last name Diamond.[00:09:07] Rating public bathrooms[00:13:38] Evaluation of realistic breast feel.[00:19:29] Medical campus wide initiative.[00:24:15] Constant tipping away creating injuries.[00:28:07] Retaining professionals in healthcare.[00:31:30] Recognizing and managing burnout.[00:37:40] Implementing wellness in first responders.[00:41:19] Patient reviews and hospital administrators.[00:45:03] Lack of sleep for doctors.[00:48:27] Training techniques for optimal performance.[00:54:01] COVID's impact on healthcare.[00:57:16] Wellness in healthcare challenges.[01:03:32] Mental and emotional hardship.[01:06:27] Spouse of a doctor's challenges.[01:11:18] Developing personal identity beyond profession.[01:18:46] Mindfulness in motherhood.[01:21:40] Processing stress hormones for mobility.[01:25:42] Dealing with rule-breaking patients.[01:28:14] Balancing work and vacation.[01:32:36] Overlap between public safety and the medical professional world.
8/4/2023 • 1 hour, 34 minutes, 56 seconds
Crew 1st Culture Part 2: Mental Resilience More Important Than Hose Drills?
Episodes 003 & 004 were recorded in conjunction with Captain Jeremy Sanders and his podcast, Crew 1st Culture.The Crew 1st Culture brand and podcast help the Firehouse Family grow and excel in their careers and lives. Jeremy and his partners and friends on this mission, who we are fortunate enough to be among, are here to discuss their passion for leadership and firehouse culture and use their life experiences to lift each other up.Jeremy is married and has 7 kids. He and his family live on a small farm just outside of Tulsa. He has served for 20 years on a suburban career fire department in central Oklahoma, where he currently holds the rank of Captain.In this second segment, we ask Jeremy how he is the way he is when so many leaders talk about the resilience of their crews but don’t seem to prioritize proactive resilience training. And if firefighters are home on mental or physical disability, what’s the use of training hose drills if their not on the fire ground to use them?
7/4/2023 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 59 seconds
Crew 1st Culture Part 1: Necessity vs. Demand
Episodes 003 & 004 were recorded in conjunction with Captain Jeremy Sanders and his podcast, Crew 1st Culture.The Crew 1st Culture brand and podcast help the Firehouse Family grow and excel in their careers and lives. Jeremy and his partners and friends on this mission, who we are fortunate enough to be among, are here to discuss their passion for leadership and firehouse culture and use their life experiences to lift each other up.Jeremy is married and has 7 kids. He and his family live on a small farm just outside of Tulsa. He has served for 20 years on a suburban career fire department in central Oklahoma, where he currently holds the rank of Captain.In this first segment, we challenge the monotony of typical firefighter training and the necessary training to be resilient.Stay tuned for the second half of our conversation with Jeremy Sanders on the next episode of Yoga For First Responders on air.
6/20/2023 • 48 minutes, 4 seconds
What's with Cognitive Declarations?
In this episode Olivia and Eric discuss how Cognitive Declarations (CDs) became part of the Yoga For First Responders protocol, the incredible science behind why they work, how they are rooted in traditional yoga, and how to get over feeling stupid using them. There conversation takes some wild twists and turns from making each other uncomfortable, to animal sex, yes you read that correctly, to harnessing the power of your mind. You're not going to want to miss this one, so give it a listen today!Instructor School Early Notification List: https://www.yogaforfirstresponders.org/instructor-schoolBlog: https://www.yogaforfirstresponders.org/post/transform-your-mindset-the-secret-tool-to-overcome-stress-and-improve-performanceLancet Psychiatry Study on Meditation: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpsy/article/PIIS2215-0366(18)30384-5/fulltext
5/16/2023 • 1 hour, 13 minutes, 30 seconds
What Is This Going To Be About?
In this teaser episode, Olivia Mead, founder of Yoga for First Responders, and Eric Brenneman introduce the new podcast "On Air by Yoga for First Responders." They explain that the podcast will delve into the topics of yoga, neuroscience, resilience, and public safety in a way that is authentic, educational, and entertaining. Each episode will feature a new topic and often include expert guests. Olivia emphasizes the importance of authenticity and keeping the podcast real. She wants to dispel the stereotype of traditional yoga being a spiritual bypassing practice and make it more relatable for first responders. Eric shares his perspective as a former firefighter and now Executive Member of YFFR. This episode has some important moments and more than a few laughs throughout.Website: https://www.yogaforfirstresponders.orgBlog: https://www.yogaforfirstresponders.org/post/is-this-podcast-worth-it-5-ways-to-know