How cannabis can alter, improve and shape your wellness routine
What does the word wellness mean to you? It is hard to define. According to an article published by the New York Times in 2010, the concept of wellness has its roots in the 1950s. The article states: "New approaches to healthful living were emerging then, inspired in part by the preamble to the World Health Organization’s 1948 constitution: 'Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.'" This describes the current definition of wellness accurately: a consistent state of well-being, encompassing both physical, emotional and mental health.
In recent years, interest in wellness as once again peaked. Folks are interested in taking control of their own health, understanding their bodies and maintaining their health. We understand today that the human body requires tuning like a car—rather than just fixing it when it breaks. We also want to note that wellness is totally attainable, even with different diseases and conditions. Different approaches and perspectives can all contribute to one's wellness—it is not a "one size fits all" model.
Additionally, the increasing popularity and accessibility of cannabis widen this definition even more. Cannabis represents a potent supplement to treat individual symptoms alongside the whole body. It can assist in pain management, stress reduction, and relaxation—all necessary facets of individual wellness.
Let's get physical
You don't have to be an athlete to enjoy the benefits of light exercise. Exercise may encourage the creation of new brain cells and improved mood. Many have discovered cannabis and physical exercise's unique synergy. While some may associate cannabis with sitting on the couch, it has actually been shown to aid athletes. Furthermore, the body actually produces its own cannabinoids—organic chemical compounds that mirror those found in the cannabis plant. These compounds actually increase in our bodies during and after exercise. This represents a similarity between a runner's high and the bliss after ingesting cannabis.
Physical activity doesn't always involve training for a marathon. Going for a run is beneficial, but so is a steady walk through the forest. As discussed in a recent blog post, combining cannabis with a peaceful stroll through the forest can result in a pleasant, inner calm. After a stressful day at work, this may be the perfect remedy to recenter and refocus.
Yoga is another fantastic activity that can pair perfectly with cannabis. Cara Wietstock, the mind behind the cannabis website Carajuana, discussed this combination in a blog post earlier this year. "Herbal medicine works better when we help the body with yoga," she wrote. "Similarly, yoga becomes a more transcendental practice when paired with daily meditation. All of these practices are symbiotic, and one of my favorite connections to explore is that of cannabis and yoga." Furthermore, she explains how cannabis and yoga can reduce inflammation, pain, and stress.
Your mind is powerful
A necessary aspect of wellness is ensuring that, just as our physical bodies are healthy, so is our mind. Our mental states can have a measurable effect on our physical bodies, too.
On one of our Medical Monday features, we discussed the effects of stress on the body: "Even though you may think stress is limited to a psychological condition, it can manifest itself in a variety of physical ailments. According to this article from the American Psychological Association, stress can affect our musculoskeletal system, causing headaches or painful tension. It might affect our cardiovascular system and put us at risk for heart disease and/or stroke. It can cause ulcers, constipation or an absent libido. Chronic stress isn’t good for anyone, and can actually result in you being less productive, more prone to anger or depression and insomnia. With that being said, it is imperative we find ways to take a step back and relax."
Wellness also means taking care of our mental health. Relaxation is key, as illustrated above. Cannabis can undoubtedly play a role in relaxation. Oftentimes, this means finding your favorite strain to end the day with. We can help you discover the perfect strain to relax with at High Mountain Health.
