As one considers attending the Police Academy here at SPC, he or she also considers obtaining one of the most stressful careers in the U.S. According to the Washington Times, police officers are likely to experience depression, insomnia and common physical complications throughout the human body, especially in these areas:

• Upper and Lower back
• Shoulders
• Wrists and ankles

Unfortunately, officers often put themselves at risk with constant wear and tear while on duty. But with some simple yoga training, it is easier for future police officers to protect and serve our country, and also build muscle strength and restore their physical health through the specific body postures.

I’m sure when you hear the word “yoga”, words like relaxation and meditation come to mind and you picture yourself in what most would call the “downward-facing dog” position. Or perhaps you just see yourself laying there motionless. Such positions and movements are key to gaining mental strength and finding a place of peace and serenity. When encountering stressful events on a daily basis, you must be aware of your emotions and also have the ability to control them.  So yoga can be very beneficial when there’s a need to be put at ease or possibly repair one’s mind, body and spirit.

Yoga not only benefits current and future law enforcement, but it can be very rewarding for veterans too. I’m sure most of us are familiar with the negative side effects that come with PTSD or have even heard some personal experiences from veterans. But the right yoga training can help those coping with stress and add comfort when dealing with post-traumatic stress disorders.

So how could you gain access to these programs or training, you ask? Some companies invite yoga teachers into their workplace. There are also affordable studios within your community. Overall, yoga can have a great impact on physical and emotional health and has proven to work for many officers today. Here you can read about the positive experiences officers have had thus far and see how it has made a major influence on their everyday lives.

For more information about joining one of the academies at St. Petersburg College, please visit our website.

This post was written by Breanna Bass, Student Support Assistant.