How times have changed! Not too long ago, many people considered cannabis a “gateway drug.” These days—powered by endorsements by stars of the NFL, NBA, and other leagues—our attitudes have done a complete 180. Why? Much of it has to do with the growing understanding and embracing of cannabis for wellness.

How did cannabis go from zero to hero in such a short period of time? A brief look at the current research should help make that clearer.

Cannabis for Wellness: Beyond the High

As far as most people are concerned, the cannabis plant’s distinctive “high” is its most notable feature. But THC, the cannabinoid responsible for that unmistakable euphoria, is only one of many. You’ve probably heard of CBD, the second-most prevalent cannabinoid. It doesn’t get you high, but it does deliver a host of medicinal effects, such as:

• Fighting pain, including sore or overstretched muscles
• Easing anxiety and depression
• Addressing the symptoms of chronic conditions including multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and others

We should note that THC—beyond delivering the “high”—imparts many other benefits, too. If you tolerate the effects of THC well, you’re in good shape to take advantage of the cannabinoid’s other benefits, including powerful anti-inflammatory and pain-fighting effects. And if you don’t, high-CBD / low-THC cannabis products deliver many benefits without noticeable psychoactivity.

What’s more, that “high” can be about much more than, well, being high. Many people find that the euphoria imparted by small to moderate doses of THC helps relieve stress and anxiety. And when we use it mindfully, it can deepen our focus during yoga, meditation, and exercise. Let’s turn to some concrete examples of how you might try using cannabis for wellness.

Cannabis for Wellness: Yoga, Exercise and Working Out

You may have noticed that both THC and CBD are associated with anti-inflammatory effects. This makes cannabis especially useful as a topical treatment before or after a workout. Applied directly to tender muscles, these products deliver potent and lasting relief in a relatively short period of time. Be sure to read the label carefully—or ask us directly—because some topicals deliver THC’s psychoactivity while others do not.

There’s definitely a place for other forms of cannabis in your health and wellness. As we hinted earlier, using cannabis with a small to moderate amount of THC can help us deepen into self-improvement and wellness routines. Many fans find that it sharpens focus and concentration, and allows us to better tune in to the subtle signals our bodies send during exertion. Again, many of us get equal or similar benefits from high-CBD products, too. Check our live menu for products and strains naturally high in this important cannabinoid.

Cannabis for Wellness: Cannabis for Stress and Anxiety

Wellness isn’t just about working out. Especially in the midst of a global pandemic, many of us are grappling with stress and anxiety. And while researchers are still unlocking the secrets of cannabinoids such as CBD, studies point to its promise in fighting anxiety and similar disorders.

In one such study, a high-CBD oil helped treat symptoms of PTSD, which include anxiety. In another study, CBD was shown to exhibit anti-depressant qualities. Finally, one test designed to simulate the anxiety of public speaking found that moderate doses of CBD proved effective in reducing subjects’ anxiety. Moreover, there’s a large body of anecdotal evidence suggesting that many of us get lasting relief from anxiety through CBD. And at lower doses, many experience relief using THC as well.

In conclusion, there’s strong evidence that whether it’s used to boost focus during workouts or to combat stress and anxiety, there are many reasons to try cannabis for wellness. If you need guidance, just ask. We’re always here to help!