by Lisa Hammond

Ten recruits at Fillmore Fire Academy recently completed a 16-week, research-backed curriculum from YogaShield® Yoga For First Responders® (YFFR), marking the first time this full program has been implemented in a fire academy in Ventura County. YFFR is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with instructors worldwide.

Meeting most Sundays—and some Saturdays during their 4-month Academy—at 7 a.m., the recruits participated in 16 one-hour sessions focused on processing stress, building resilience, and enhancing performance. Each class consisted of four key components that correspond to traditional yoga practices but are tailored specifically for first responders: tactical breath work, physical drills, neurological reset, and cognitive declarations.

“This curriculum gives first responders tools they can use throughout their careers, both on and off duty, from recruitment through retirement,” said Lisa Hammond, the certified YFFR instructor who taught the course. She also oversees YFFR’s Virtual Instructor School. “And the best part—no yoga experience is required to get started.”

Grounded in neuroscience, the YFFR program is designed to meet the physical and psychological demands of high-stress careers. It has gained national and international recognition and has been adapted not only for fire service and law enforcement, but also for military personnel, medical professionals—and really, anyone facing stress in their daily lives.

For more information about Yoga For First Responders, visit www.yogaforfirstresponders.org or contact Lisa Hammond directly at lisa@yogaforfirstresponders.org.