
Hello Cannabis Friends 🌱 and Happy New Year!
I don’t know about you, but it feels like I blinked and 2024 was over! With the new year here, one of my goals is to post more frequently on this blog. I’m also thrilled to share updates about my upcoming book, Medical Cannabis: Preparing for Oklahoma’s Dispensaries, which I’m hoping to make available this month.
Since January is traditionally a time for resetting intentions and goals, let’s explore how cannabis can become a meaningful part of your wellness routine.
Why Wellness Routines Matter
A solid wellness routine can be a game-changer in our daily lives, especially in today’s fast-paced society. When we’re constantly on the go, we’re at higher risk for burnout and stress-related health issues. According to the Mayo Clinic, high stress can lead to anxiety, depression, digestive problems, headaches, poor sleep, weight gain, and even serious conditions like heart disease and stroke. None of these are ideal for living a balanced, fulfilling life. The good news? Building and maintaining a wellness routine can help reduce stress and promote overall health. But what does a healthy wellness routine look like?
What Makes a Good Wellness Routine?
There are countless wellness plans online, but navigating them can be overwhelming. Many come with a price tag or focus on unattainable perfection. My approach is simple and practical:
Stay physically active.
Prioritize sleep.
Eat whole, nutritious foods.
Stay hydrated.
Practice self-compassion when I slip up.
If you’re looking for more tips, I recommend this article about creating a wellness routine. It’s a great starting point for building a plan that fits your life. So, how does cannabis fit into all of this? Let’s break it down.
Cannabis and Physical Activity
Getting started with exercise can be tough—physically, mentally, and emotionally—especially if you’re dealing with chronic pain or inflammation. This is where cannabis may lend a helping hand. Research has shown that consuming THC before exercise can lead to less negative emotions, greater feelings of positivity, and an overall more enjoyable workout experience. It also helps enhance the mind-body connection, making activities like yoga or hiking even more rewarding. CBD, on the other hand, has been approved for managing conditions like chronic pain, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis, which can make physical activity more accessible. While the full range of its effects is still being studied, many long-time cannabis consumers report that it helps them focus, enjoy exercise more, and stay motivated. Whether you’re hitting the gym or going for a walk, cannabis might be the extra support you need to get moving and reach your fitness goals.
Cannabis and Sleep
Sleep is another cornerstone of a solid wellness routine, and cannabis has been used for centuries to promote better rest. You may have seen historical images of early 1900s medicine bottles featuring cannabis tinctures for sleep and pain relief. Modern research supports these traditional uses. For example, one study found that medicinal cannabis oil was effective in improving sleep for adults with insomnia. Since sleep directly impacts how we manage stress and physical recovery, incorporating cannabis into your nighttime routine can be a great way to boost overall wellness. If sleep is a challenge for you, consider strains or products high in myrcene or CBN, which are known for their sedative properties.
Bringing It All Together
A healthy wellness routine doesn’t have to be complicated. By focusing on physical activity, prioritizing sleep, and using tools like cannabis to support your goals, you can create a balanced lifestyle that works for you. Remember, wellness is a journey, not a destination—give yourself grace as you explore what works best.
As we kick off this year, I’d love to hear from you! How has cannabis helped your wellness routine? Share your thoughts in the comments below. And don’t forget to keep an eye out for my book, Medical Cannabis: Preparing for Oklahoma’s Dispensaries, coming soon. Let’s make 2025 a year of health, balance, and growth together!
References
1. Chronic stress puts your health at risk. Mayo Clinic. Published 2024. Accessed January 17, 2025. http://mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress/art-20046037
2. Gibson, L.P. and Bryan, A.D. (2024) ‘Running high: Cannabis users’ subjective experience of exercise during legal market cannabis use versus no use in a naturalistic setting’, Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 9(4). doi:10.1089/can.2022.0338.
3. Stone WJ, Tolusso DV, Pancheco G, Brgoch S, Nguyen VT. A Pilot Study on Cannabidiol (CBD) and Eccentric Exercise: Impact on Inflammation, Performance, and Pain. Int J Exerc Sci. 2023;16(2):109-117. Published 2023 Jan 1. doi:10.70252/VWUK7519
4. Stone E. Can cannabis help your workout? Leafly. Published January 6, 2023. Accessed January 17, 2025. https://www.leafly.com/news/health/can-cannabis-help-your-workout
5. Ried K, Tamanna T, Matthews S, Sali A. Medicinal cannabis improves sleep in adults with insomnia: a randomised double‐blind placebo‐controlled crossover study. Journal of Sleep Research. 2022;32(3). doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/jsr.13793
6. Rob Velzeboer, Adeeb Malas, Pierre Boerkoel, Katie Cullen, Michelle Hawkins, Jordanna Roesler, Wayne Wei-Ku Lai, Cannabis dosing and administration for sleep: a systematic review, Sleep, Volume 45, Issue 11, November 2022, zsac218, https://doi.org/10.1093/sleep/zsac218
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