On January 29th, Ridge VFD officers LT Scot Best and LT Charlie Russell traveled to Bel Air, MD to attend the “Mental Management and Mindful Movement For First Responders” seminar. The intent of this training was to learn how trauma, crisis events, and stressful working conditions impact the brain that could lead to unwanted behavioral changes in first responders. The instructor, Susan C. Radcliffe, LCSW-C, provided a research-based presentation explaining how trauma-informed yoga and meditation helps first responders overcome the negative effects of job stress and repeat exposure to traumatic situations that may lead to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance abuse, chronic pain, and sleep issues. Following the presentation, Susan led the group in a yoga session. The lessons learned will be brought back the Department for the benefit of the membership.