Keys to "Internal Decon"

"The dose makes the poison" - Paracelsus

Firefighters are aware of gross decon at the fire scene, showering within the hour, and taking time to clean their tools. But today, we're talking about the last step in decon that most skip right past.

With that said, here are 5 keys to internal decon, and why you should be doing it DAILY 👊

1. Minimize exposures

The more you introduce your body to unnecessary chemical toxins, the harder your detox organs have to work. If the exposures are too frequent, the system can easily get congested and sluggish; causing you to recirculate toxins.

2. Don't skip decon

This obviously begins with gross decon at the scene, but also includes personal decon with high quality low-tox self care products. Also be sure to take careful protection of your skin while decontaminating tools and the fire apparatus.

3. Regulate your nervous system

Stress depletes a number of minerals necessary for detoxification support. If you're constantly in fight or flight mode, cortisol is keeping you captive. Some signs your nervous system may be dysregulated: bloating, constipation, diarrhea, no brain "off switch", problems concentrating, irritability, and low energy levels.

4. Support and open detox pathways

Supporting the organs involved in detoxification means opening your detox pathways - or the exit strategies. These pathways are the 3 P's: peeing, pooping, and perspiring. Hydrating correctly and peeing ~6 times per day is typical with a healthy system. Having 1-3 bowel movements per day is considered ideal for supporting detoxification. And sweating daily helps tremendously with eliminating stored toxins in the subcutaneous tissues.

You also want to give the liver the proper materials to neutralize the toxins, and feed the healthy gut bacteria so the toxins that are mobilized actually get eliminated. Foods with added sugars or inflammatory oils only clog the system more. When the system is clogged, toxins are recirculating causing more damage and increased potential for cancer.

5. Getting quality sleep, regularly

Sleep is a multi-factorial component of detoxification. Sleep itself allows for toxins in the brain to be mobilized and removed. The better quality sleep you get, the better your nervous system is regulated. A regulated nervous system allows for better choices in healthier habits throughout the day (nutrition and activity). It is imperative to develop and sleep hygiene routine, at least for the times you're away from the station. Take advantage of the naps in the recliner of the day room. If done right, a nap can really help boost your energy, and help you bank some lost sleep.

Here's one video I really like for relaxation before sleep, or to regulate the nervous system: