Episode 08: Applying Mindfulness As A First Responder And Leader With Sgt. John Grillone
In Episode 8 of The Mental Health Mixtape, we sat down with Sgt. John Grillone, he works as a Peer Support Coordinator at the Calgary Police Service, to delve into the transformative power of meditation as a form of self-care, particularly for first responders. John passionately advocates for integrating mindfulness practices into the training of all first responders, emphasizing its crucial role in fostering resilience and well-being.
Drawing from his own experiences as a first responder, Sgt. John underscores the significance of meditation in managing the challenges and stresses inherent in the profession. He shares how mindfulness, particularly through practices such as breath work, loving-kindness meditation, body scans, nature walks, and walking meditation, has been instrumental in regulating the nervous system and promoting emotional balance.
In discussing their participation in the Resiliency Immersion Training on mindfulness for first responders, John and Ryan highlight key insights gained from the program. They explore the importance of embracing discomfort as a pathway to growth and empathy, emphasizing the need to recognize that behaviors do not define individuals entirely.
Furthermore, Sgt. John sheds light on the issue of suicide within the first responder community, advocating for increased awareness and support. He discusses the development of an internal program focused on inward-facing suicidal awareness for police officers, expressing his vision for extending such initiatives to encompass all first responders.
Overall, the episode delves into the practical applications of mindfulness for first responders and leaders alike, offering valuable insights into its profound impact on both professional and personal lives. Through shared experiences and reflections, Sgt. John, Ryan, and Dr. Megan underscore the transformative potential of mindfulness in fostering resilience and promoting well-being within the first responder community.