2025 First Responder Wellness Pre-Conference Physical and Nutritional Wellness for First Responders

Part of our 2025 First Responder Wellness Conference

Click here for more information about the main conference!

The Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) is pleased to announce the "2025 First Responder Wellness Pre-Conference: Physical and Nutritional Wellness for First Responders" in Norfolk, VA, on September 9, 2025. 

Description:

This course is designed to empower first responders with a comprehensive understanding of their bodies and the profound impact of stress on their longevity. Through focused exploration of biology, nutrition, and fitness, participants will gain essential knowledge and practical strategies to effectively combat stress. By enhancing their understanding of nutrition and fitness, participants will be equipped to optimize their physical health and performance, ensuring they are prepared to meet the demands of their critical roles with resilience and longevity in mind. 

The first half of the day will focus on fueling resiliency, drawing connections between nutrition, mental acuity, physical recovery, sleep, and more. The instructor will present insights into the impact our foods have on our professional performance and personal health.

The day will conclude with a presentation and practice of modalities such as Yin yoga, breathwork, PMR (Progressive Muscle Relaxation), and iRest© meditation to support first responders on and off the job, while addressing post-traumatic stress, anxiety, sleep disruption, and pain mitigation.

Do not miss this essential training opportunity!

Topics to be Discussed Include:

• Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR)
• IREST Meditation
• Nervous System Regulation to address sleep disruption, pain, and stress management
• Understanding the unique demands faced by first responders in maintaining fitness and nutrition goals
• Fundamentals of nutrition
• Meal planning and preparation strategies
• Managing stress through nutrition and lifestyle
• Rest, recovery, and injury prevention
• Fitness training principles
• Mental health awareness and stress management

Who should attend?

This conference is open to all first responder groups, including, but not limited to, law enforcement, fire/EMS, EMTs, dispatchers, and corrections. It is also open to retired first responders and civilian peer support and mental health clinicians who are culturally competent in first responder wellness.

Partial In-service Credit:

Law enforcement officers who complete this training are eligible to receive partial in-service credit hours.

Meals, Travel, and Lodging:

Lunch will be served on September 10 and September 11 for the main conference. Participants are responsible for all other meals, lodging, and travel expenses.

Conference Time and Details:

Pre-Conference: Please click here to register for the pre-conference
September 9, 2025, from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Main Conference: Please click here for more details and to register for the main conference
September 10 - 11, 2025, from 8:30 am – 4:00 pm 
September 12, 2025, from 8:30 am – 12:00 pm

Participant Cost and Registration:

There is no cost to attend the pre-conference; however, pre-registration is required. Please see the main conference webpage for more information about registration for the main conference.