Paired with everyday stresses, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the world around us. Many find that a more intentional wellness and self-case focus provides relief.
As the wellness world has gained mainstream traction, cannabis has followed a similar path. Today, we recognize the plant’s array of benefits and the diverse range of consumers who use it as a means to be well.
We know more about cannabis than ever. The modern cannabis industry reflects this, with products tailored to a collection of unique needs. When used correctly, cannabis can be a valuable way to optimize self-care.
In this article, we’ll explain how cannabis fits into wellness. You’ll also find tips and tricks to incorporate it into your self-care/wellness routines.
How Cannabis Helps Self-Care and Wellness
Stress Relief
Well before legalization, most people knew that cannabis was used to ease the mind and embrace a more mellow vibe. Now we know why… Cannabis interacts with receptors in our body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS).
Cannabinoids produce anxiolytic and mood-elevating effects, regulating our mood and stress responses. Your dose matters! Too much THC may cause elevated anxiety and stress. However, low doses can effectively encourage relaxation and stress relief. CBD is another key player, given its ability to reduce stress without a high.
When combined, studies suggest CBD can help balance out the more anxiety-inducing effects of THC. Researchers also recognize the entourage effect, which explains the synergistic relationship between THC and CBD. Combined, they may produce more profound benefits, potentially extending to stress relief.
Sleep and Rest
Taking things a step further, cannabinoids and strains can encourage better sleep and rest. The ECS plays a role in regulating sleep cycles, and cannabis can support this.
Dispensaries (like Fine Fettle) categorize cannabis strains by sativa, hybrid, or indica. But these classifications aren’t the only way to determine effects.
Still, they provide a solid foundation to work from. Sativas tend to be stimulating and heady. Indicas and indica-dominant strains lend themselves to sedative, body-specific effects. If you’re after better sleep, indicas are usually your best option.
Cannabinoids are another important element.
While THC alone may help, frequent use may cause daytime sleepiness and a less pronounced circadian rhythm. CBD can act as a promising sleep aid, especially in medium to high doses. CBN is also gaining prominence for its sleep-related benefits. Research shows that CBN reduced nighttime awakening and overall sleep disturbances.
Keep in mind that studies on cannabis, cannabinoids, and sleep are in their infancy. Use these guidelines as a starting point to find your own unique cannabis solutions for sleep.
Mindfulness
Cannabis can also assist with mindfulness practices like yoga, meditation, or journaling. The proper dose and strain can act as a helpful tool to remain grounded and present.
These activities are incredibly personal. Individuals may have preferences best suited to their unique minds, bodies, and practices. Indica-leaning strains help relax the body, which could be useful for more physical practices like yoga. Sativa-leaning strains are mentally invigorating, potentially an ideal fit for journaling. You can also turn to a hybrid for an even-keeled mix of heady and body-focused effects.
Using cannabis can help you slow down to notice sensations, emotions, and thoughts with increased clarity. When combining cannabis and mindfulness practices, start with low and balanced doses. You’ll work up to that sweet spot to enhance mindfulness without being overstimulating.
Relaxation and Recovery
A key element of many wellness and self-care practices is physical activity and fitness. Exercise releases endorphins and increases dopamine. It’s a healthy coping mechanism with its own collection of mental and physical health benefits.
The medical cannabis industry often focuses on cannabis benefits that encourage physical recovery. Specific cannabinoid combinations (usually including CBD) can:
- Lower inflammation
- Lower muscle tension
- Aid in muscle recovery
- Be used for pain relief
Many find that a balanced ratio of CBD and THC provides relaxation and relief with less psychoactive effects.
Beyond cannabinoids, some products are better suited for physical recovery. Topical and balms are some of the best, offering targeted relief to muscles and joints. Unlike inhalable and consumable products, most topicals don’t lead to psychoactive effects — even those with THC.
Incorporating Cannabis into Your Self-Care Routine
Cannabis isn’t one-size-fits-all. If you’re looking to incorporate it into your wellness regimen, consider the following:
- Decide if your goal is stress relief, mindfulness, or rest. Your goals will determine the strain category, cannabinoids, and products that will be most effective.
- Choose the right product. Inhalable products come with immediate effects and more strain-specific options. However, flower and vapes are often more THC-focused with limited cannabinoid variety. Consumable products like edibles last longer but take more time to kick in. Tinctures and drinks are an exception, kicking in quickly to offer immediate relief. Topicals are ideal for targeted relief for specific parts of the body.
- Timing and Dosage: You may need to experiment to find your own personal balance. Be sure to start low and slow, adjusting your daily cannabis routines to accommodate your wellness as you explore various options.
- Match your product with rituals. The modern cannabis world has a number of innovative products to easily add into your established routines. If you love baths, an infused bath bomb could be a good fit. Anyone who enjoys a sweet treat or calming tea could easily seek out an infused option to add into the mix.
- Track progress with journaling or mindful consumption notes. Wellness and cannabis routines are incredibly personal. When figuring out what works best for you, documenting your experiences is a crucial resource.
Add Cannabis to Your Wellness Routine at Fine Fettle
This is just a small overview of cannabis as it relates to wellness and self-care. We’re learning more about the plant every day. As a result, navigating these topics can be overwhelming. Fortunately, you don’t have to take this journey alone.
Fine Fettle’s knowledgeable budtenders are here to help. Stop into one of our locations in Connecticut, Massachusetts, or Georgia, and our staff will be your guide. Share your self-care and wellness goals, and we’ll help you find the best strains and products to get you there.
