{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/culture-and-lifestyle/5","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_2655-markdown","title":"Tips on How to Get Your Parents to Try Cannabis","slug":"tips-on-how-to-get-your-parents-to-try-cannabis","content":"Talking to your parents about cannabis can feel like a daunting task. For many middle-aged and older folks, the misconceptions about cannabis bred during the height of the War on Drugs are still firmly planted in their minds. This can be very frustrating, especially if you know that your parent might benefit from the medical applications of cannabis. \n\nIf you’re hoping to persuade your parent to try marijuana for a medical condition, general health maintenance or even as a healthier alternative to alcohol and prescription drugs, we’ve compiled a few tips to help you navigate the conversation.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### How to Talk To Your Parents About Marijuana\n\n#### 1. Manage Your Expectations When it Comes to Cannabis Bias\n\nUndoing a couple decades’ worth of misinformation about marijuana might take more than one conversation—and that’s OK. Before you initiate the discussion, manage your expectations and entertain the fact that the first conversation on the topic may not be the breakthrough you’re hoping for. Patience and persistence are key if you plan to change your parents’ minds. \n\n#### 2. Start With Your Story About How Marijuana Helps You\n\nStarting with a personal anecdote can go a long way when talking to your parents. Why? Well, hopefully your parents love you and support a natural remedy that makes you feel better. Your own positive experience with cannabis can be the trusted first-person account your parent needs to feel comfortable trying it for themselves. Explain why you choose marijuana, whether for medical reasons, mental health reasons or simply as an alternative to more harmful substances like drugs and alcohol. \n\n#### 3. Bust Cannabis Myths With Facts\n\nBefore you jump into the conversation, brush up on some facts about cannabis. It’s important to have some solid knowledge about recent scientific research and products in case they have questions. If your parent is suffering from a specific medical condition like arthritis or cancer, the chances are very good that HelloMD has an article about treating a specific condition’s symptoms with cannabis. Use our articles to brush up on your marijuana knowledge so you can be a source of trusted information for your parent. Better yet, print out a few relevant articles to show your parent.\n\nRELATED: [LOW DOSES OF THC MAY IMPROVE MENTAL CAPACITY IN THE ELDERLY](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/low-doses-of-thc-may-improve-mental-capacity-in-the-elderly)\n\n#### 4. Introduce Your Parents to the New World of Cannabis  \n\nThe world of cannabis today is drastically different than it used to be. When your parent grew up, marijuana was whatever type you could get from whoever you could get it from. There was no wide array of products, no lab testing or state-of-the-art production facilities, no legal and medical dispensaries tracking every piece of product that comes in and out of the store. Explain to your parents how legal and medical marijuana programs work in this new era. Helping them understand the safety measures states have put in place may help them feel more comfortable about the idea of trying cannabis. \n\n### Introductory Cannabis Products That Your Parents Can Try\n\n#### Non-Psychoactive CBD\n\n[The cannabis compound CBD](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-thc-vs-cbd) can be a great way to introduce marijuana to a parent who’s uncomfortable with the idea of trying cannabis or being high. First and foremost, CBD isn’t intoxicating. This cannabinoid has been shown to be effective against pain, inflammation, stress and more. \n\nCBD-only marijuana products are available in a wide variety of consumption methods, from vaporizer cartridges to tinctures, so your parent will have their choice of how to consume. Being able to get the pain-relieving and relaxing properties of CBD without the high is a plus for many cannabis newbies. \n\n#### Marijuana Topicals\n\nA great option for parents who are averse to the idea of becoming intoxicated, [cannabis topicals](https://hellomd.com/articles/3-popular-questions-about-marijuana-and-topicals-answered) won’t put them at risk of getting high. Cannabis topicals, as the name implies, are meant to be applied to the skin. Once absorbed, the cannabis and essential oils get to work easing pain, sore muscles, itchy and irritated skin, headaches and so much more. Topicals don’t enter the bloodstream, but rather provide localized relief. If your parent is particularly wary of trying cannabis, marijuana lotions, oils and salves are probably the path of least resistance. \n\n#### Cannabis Tinctures\n\nFor parents who’ve agreed to try cannabis, but aren’t interested in vaping or smoking, or have medical conditions that limit them to non-smoking options, [marijuana tinctures](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-tinctures-what-they-are-and-why-you-want-them) may be the consumption method they need. Not only do tinctures come in a wide variety of strains as well as cannabidiol (CBD) to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) ratios, it’s also very easy to customize and control the dose. When your parent first starts experimenting with cannabis, they can [microdose](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/microdosing-a-better-way-to-take-cannabis) a tiny bit of the marijuana tincture and then work their way up to higher doses as needed. Cannabis tinctures can also be added to food and drinks. And some can even be used as a topical. \n\n#### Cannabis Flower\n\nMaybe your parent is most comfortable going old school. If that’s the case, get them some high-quality, lab-tested cannabis flower. If they’re most comfortable with a joint or smoking out of a pipe, have them try a nice starter marijuana strain like [Blue Dream](https://hellomd.com/strains/blue-dream) or a high-CBD strain like [Harlequin](https://hellomd.com/strains/harlequin). \n\nJust remember, you can’t force someone to do something they’re not ready for. Even if you know your parent would benefit from cannabis of some kind, be patient and open, and arm them with medical studies and facts. Hopefully, they’ll come around to seeing how the plant could help them live their best life. \n\nPhoto credit: [Matthew Bennett](https://unsplash.com/@mbennettphoto)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/f65bfc020ba9fc19a046a13acc0d03b6/14b42/1391d3da68c87cc4bd7974093017a5ba.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f65bfc020ba9fc19a046a13acc0d03b6/f836f/1391d3da68c87cc4bd7974093017a5ba.jpg 200w,\n/static/f65bfc020ba9fc19a046a13acc0d03b6/2244e/1391d3da68c87cc4bd7974093017a5ba.jpg 400w,\n/static/f65bfc020ba9fc19a046a13acc0d03b6/14b42/1391d3da68c87cc4bd7974093017a5ba.jpg 800w,\n/static/f65bfc020ba9fc19a046a13acc0d03b6/47498/1391d3da68c87cc4bd7974093017a5ba.jpg 1200w,\n/static/f65bfc020ba9fc19a046a13acc0d03b6/0e329/1391d3da68c87cc4bd7974093017a5ba.jpg 1600w,\n/static/f65bfc020ba9fc19a046a13acc0d03b6/eecc5/1391d3da68c87cc4bd7974093017a5ba.jpg 3652w","srcWebp":"/static/f65bfc020ba9fc19a046a13acc0d03b6/58556/1391d3da68c87cc4bd7974093017a5ba.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f65bfc020ba9fc19a046a13acc0d03b6/61e93/1391d3da68c87cc4bd7974093017a5ba.webp 200w,\n/static/f65bfc020ba9fc19a046a13acc0d03b6/1f5c5/1391d3da68c87cc4bd7974093017a5ba.webp 400w,\n/static/f65bfc020ba9fc19a046a13acc0d03b6/58556/1391d3da68c87cc4bd7974093017a5ba.webp 800w,\n/static/f65bfc020ba9fc19a046a13acc0d03b6/99238/1391d3da68c87cc4bd7974093017a5ba.webp 1200w,\n/static/f65bfc020ba9fc19a046a13acc0d03b6/7c22d/1391d3da68c87cc4bd7974093017a5ba.webp 1600w,\n/static/f65bfc020ba9fc19a046a13acc0d03b6/0dca4/1391d3da68c87cc4bd7974093017a5ba.webp 3652w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2611-markdown","title":"5 Feel-Good TV Shows for When You’re Too High ","slug":"5-feel-good-tv-shows-for-when-youre-too-high","content":"While there are many remedies you can try when you’re too high, sometimes the only thing you can do is wait it out. And one of the best ways to pass the time is by watching soothing, low-stakes television. We’ve gathered a few shows you can try out when you need to distract yourself from the effects of consuming too much marijuana. \r\n\r\nYou won’t find “Black Mirror” or “The Handmaid’s Tale” on this list. We’re not trying to blow your mind or send you on a trippy, cerebral experience—that’s the last thing you need. This list is all about easy-to-follow, feel-good TV that’s meant to help get you through tough times. So relax, breathe, drink some water and remember that all of this will pass. \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\n### 1. “The Great British Baking Show”\r\n\r\n![The Great British Baking Show](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5ab2b611f24d1300077ccb95-5ac0cdfd-d8a8-4128-a7b8-9e095c517d1d/original.png)\r\n\r\nIf your mind is scattered, unable to focus and panicking as a result of cannabis over-consumption, an episode of “The Great British Baking Show” is sure to draw you in and lull you into a state of tranquility. This is riveting, low-stakes television at its finest—the perfect distraction.  \r\n\r\nThe show centers on 12 amateur bakers who gather in a tent in the English countryside to partake in a baking competition that involves no cash prizes and very little glory. This might be one of the few—if only—competitive cooking shows where the contestants actually help each other, a mentality that gives you an idea of the show’s aesthetic. \r\n\r\nThe bakers’ trials and tribulations are insignificant, yet inexplicably compelling. Will the mousse set in time? Will the pastry be crisp enough? You’ll be so caught up in whether someone’s cake will be baked all the way through that you’ll forget about feeling too high.\r\n\r\n**Where to watch:** Netflix\r\n\r\nRELATED: [5 TIPS TO REDUCE THE EFFECTS OF HAVING TOO MUCH CANNABIS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a5cfdb5c7e0180007a78273/5-tips-to-reduce-the-effects-of-having-too-much-cannabis)\r\n\r\n### 2. “Hidden Kingdoms”\r\n\r\n![Hidden Kingdoms](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5ab2b611f24d1300077ccb95-bcf011f1-1bc8-41ed-bb15-5a01ee23fef3/original.png)\r\n\r\n“Planet Earth” and marijuana were meant to be paired together—there’s something about witnessing the glory of nature that’s both awe-inspiring and soothing. That’s why this stunning documentary series is on every cannabis enthusiast’s must-watch list—regardless of whether you’re too high or perfectly elevated. But if you’ve already seen every episode of “Planet Earth” and “Planet Earth II,” watching “Hidden Kingdoms” is the way to go.  \r\n\r\nWhile most nature documentaries concentrate on large, charismatic animals and the places they roam, “Hidden Kingdoms” focuses on the earth’s tiniest creatures and the secret worlds they inhabit. If you’re looking for a silly, light-hearted story about chipmunks gathering acorns for the winter, this is the documentary for you. You might also find yourself fixated on the concept of scale or lost in a dense jungle that’s actually made up of blades of grass. Wherever your mind goes, it won’t be thinking about how uncomfortably high you are. \r\n\r\n**Where to watch:** Netflix\r\n\r\n### 3. “Dogs With Jobs”\r\n\r\n![Dogs With Jobs](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5ab2b611f24d1300077ccb95-f08fb4b6-03c0-427b-9465-db3c669b5afb/original.png)\r\n\r\nIf you’re in one of those moods where everything is somehow anxiety-inducing, “Dogs With Jobs,” a wholesome Canadian documentary series about working dogs, might be the thing to calm you down. The show features canines from a variety of professions—from traditional search and rescue dogs to many others who’ve created special niches for themselves, like Kelsey, a rodeo performer and Duncan, a freestyle dancer. \r\n\r\nThis family-friendly series features two to three dogs per 30-minute episode and includes footage of the dogs working, their relationships with their handlers and their various back stories. Film critic Matthew Hays of _The New York Times_ calls the show, “as simple and as slightly absurd as its name.” While the series itself has a bit of a dated look, its heartwarming antics will surely help you relax and realize that everything’s going to be alright. \r\n\r\n**Where to watch:** YouTube \r\n\r\n### 4. “Parks and Recreation” \r\n\r\n![Parks and Rec](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5ab2b611f24d1300077ccb95-f096ed89-6123-46c8-a7c8-bdf5b25a22a6/original.png)\r\n\r\nSitcoms can be hard to watch when you’re too high—following a plot and dealing with the idiosyncrasies of the characters can be overwhelming. However, “Parks and Recreation,” with its never-ending optimism, deserves a place on this list. \r\n\r\nIf you’re looking to be engrossed in a world filled with goofy, loveable characters, you might want to give this show a shot. While the show is episodic, each season can stand on its own and begins with a recap—so you can often jump in at the beginning of a season and follow along. And if you’ve already seen this popular series in its entirety, it’s easy to watch again and again. Overall, “Parks and Recreation” is comfort TV at its finest, which is what you need when you’ve consumed too much tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). \r\n\r\n**Where to watch:** Netflix, Hulu \r\n\r\n### 5. “Slow TV” \r\n\r\n![Slow TV](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5ab2b611f24d1300077ccb95-12c2b131-abf4-4013-a34e-5dd8d8b00297/original.png)\r\n\r\nFor those times when you can’t follow a plot, “Slow TV” has got your back. This Scandinavian television series is dedicated to airing long, minimally edited footage of mundane events in real time. Their first production, “Slow TV: Train Ride Bergen to Oslo” was a surprise hit, ultimately garnering 1.2 million views in Norway—an impressive feat for a country of 5 million people. \r\n\r\n“Slow TV” can give you exactly what you need when you’re on the verge of a marijuana-induced panic attack: tranquility without the need to focus or follow a story. Move over “Seinfeld”; this is truly a show about nothing. There are many options for you to choose from: take an 11-hour journey through Norway’s Telemark Canal, join some folks as they go salmon fishing for the day, or just watch people build a fire. Whatever you decide, no judgment here—we’ve all been there. \r\n\r\n**Where to watch:** Netflix \r\n\r\nMain photo credit: [Parker Byrd](https://unsplash.com/@parkerabyrd)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/01688ec67005401f0038187a0d3b31f0/14b42/102d37aceb5ae5164485bfde3763a1ed.jpg","srcSet":"/static/01688ec67005401f0038187a0d3b31f0/f836f/102d37aceb5ae5164485bfde3763a1ed.jpg 200w,\n/static/01688ec67005401f0038187a0d3b31f0/2244e/102d37aceb5ae5164485bfde3763a1ed.jpg 400w,\n/static/01688ec67005401f0038187a0d3b31f0/14b42/102d37aceb5ae5164485bfde3763a1ed.jpg 800w,\n/static/01688ec67005401f0038187a0d3b31f0/47498/102d37aceb5ae5164485bfde3763a1ed.jpg 1200w,\n/static/01688ec67005401f0038187a0d3b31f0/0e329/102d37aceb5ae5164485bfde3763a1ed.jpg 1600w,\n/static/01688ec67005401f0038187a0d3b31f0/8182b/102d37aceb5ae5164485bfde3763a1ed.jpg 3651w","srcWebp":"/static/01688ec67005401f0038187a0d3b31f0/58556/102d37aceb5ae5164485bfde3763a1ed.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/01688ec67005401f0038187a0d3b31f0/61e93/102d37aceb5ae5164485bfde3763a1ed.webp 200w,\n/static/01688ec67005401f0038187a0d3b31f0/1f5c5/102d37aceb5ae5164485bfde3763a1ed.webp 400w,\n/static/01688ec67005401f0038187a0d3b31f0/58556/102d37aceb5ae5164485bfde3763a1ed.webp 800w,\n/static/01688ec67005401f0038187a0d3b31f0/99238/102d37aceb5ae5164485bfde3763a1ed.webp 1200w,\n/static/01688ec67005401f0038187a0d3b31f0/7c22d/102d37aceb5ae5164485bfde3763a1ed.webp 1600w,\n/static/01688ec67005401f0038187a0d3b31f0/208dd/102d37aceb5ae5164485bfde3763a1ed.webp 3651w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2596-markdown","title":"Why We Still Need Cannabis Doctors in the Adult-Use Market","slug":"why-we-still-need-cannabis-doctors-in-the-adult-use-market","content":"With Western medicine’s propensity to view the human body as a schematic grid, marijuana has only been considered “medicine” when the appropriate symptoms are ticked. In California, obtaining a medical marijuana recommendation card has allowed patients access to cannabis as medicine since 1996. \r\n\r\nToday, California’s legal recreational market overlaps with the medical model, and we’re seeing how it’s influencing consumers’ relationships with cannabis and their doctors. While anyone over 21 can now purchase cannabis products designed to alleviate conditions like anxiety, insomnia and chronic pain, it’s challenging to define boundaries between cannabis for healing and cannabis for pleasure as well as define how each should be treated from a medical perspective.\r\n\r\nBut given that [over 60% of Americans support marijuana legalization](http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2018/01/05/americans-support-marijuana-legalization/), it seems that these ambiguous definitions don’t bother most of us. But should we all simply self-medicate and move on? Or is there still value in having a doctor oversee the use of marijuana for medical purposes? \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\n### Will Prop 64 Have a Positive Affect on Medical Cannabis Patients?\r\n\r\nAs a country with the [worst-rated health care among high-income nations](http://www.newsweek.com/united-states-health-care-rated-worst-637114) and an [escalating opioid crisis](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a3c582c100a820006562f36/the-rise-of-opioids-and-cannabiss-role-in-their-downfall), the room for improvement is vast. In order to better understand marijuana legalization’s impact from a medical perspective, HelloMD spoke with two leading physicians based in California, [Dr. Jeffrey Hergenrather](https://www.drjeffhergenrather.com) and [Dr. Mark Wallace](https://medicalmarijuana.procon.org/view.source.php?sourceID=008050), both of whom treat patients with cannabis.\r\n\r\nBoth doctors stressed the polarity between a growing adult-use marketplace and a lag in cannabis knowledge due to the federal prohibition on medical research. While it’s widely accepted that cannabis is neither addictive nor life threatening, what risks might be posed by consuming without the guidance of a trusted doctor? \r\n\r\nRELATED: [CAN YOU BE ADDICTED TO MARIJUANA?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59c298a24f508a4a9adead74/can-you-be-addicted-to-marijuana)\r\n\r\n### Emphasizing Proper Marijuana Dosing\r\n\r\nA pain management specialist at UC San Diego Health, Dr. Wallace started talking to his patients about cannabis shortly after Prop 215 established a medical marijuana model in California. As more research was conducted, cannabis became integral to the practice that Dr. Wallace runs with his colleague, Dr. Michelle Sexton, ND. As an anesthesiologist, Dr. Wallace says they “see all kinds of pain” at their clinic in San Diego. \r\n\r\nDr. Wallace’s new patients are always given a survey asking about their personal history with cannabis. He explains that patients commonly respond, “Yes, I tried it, and I hated it. I don’t want to do it ever again.” When he asks whether disaffected patients were given any medical guidance about dosing and delivery with their 215 recommendation card, most patients respond with a “no.” \r\n\r\n“They got ahold of some really potent marijuana in college or tried something from a family member,” adds Dr. Wallace. \r\n\r\nWhile Dr. Wallace agrees that bad experiences with marijuana don’t cause harm, he cautions against recreational marijuana’s power to skew a patient’s perception. “You have to guide them on the appropriate dose, starting with very low doses,” explains Dr. Wallace.\r\n\r\nUnpleasant psychological experiences or sleepiness can be attributed to what Dr. Wallace calls the “dichotomy of getting too much.” The paradox of cannabis causing paranoia, when intended to alleviate anxiety is a familiar and frustrating scenario for many. But Dr. Wallace explains that this scenario applies to the pain spectrum as well. He believes that appropriate dosing is critical in order for patients to successfully reduce, rather than increase, their pain.  \r\n\r\n“The same is true with cannabidiol (CBD),” adds Dr. Wallace. Though using CBD cannabis products is on the rise socially and medically, he warns that while low doses are associated with a stimulating affect, high doses are associated with a sedating effect. Patients who have bad experiences using cannabis might need a significantly different product in the morning than before going to bed. \r\n\r\nWhen a patient presents a condition that might positively respond to cannabis, Dr. Wallace stresses that a “knowledgeable health-care professional” is key for successful treatment. In addition to the complex topic of dosage, Dr. Wallace notes that delivery method is another complicating factor.\r\n\r\n“The best way to titrate consumption is with inhalation, but there are many risk factors associated with smoke,” says Dr. Wallace. He cites lab-tested cannabis products, such as tinctures, edibles and vape pens, as the major advantage to the regulated recreational market.\r\n\r\nOverall, Dr. Wallace believes that a medical doctor is essential for monitoring what works for a cannabis patient. But he highlights the tax revenue generated from Prop 64 as the greatest benefit to the recreational market—a large percentage of the funds are earmarked for medical research.\r\n\r\nHowever, as long as marijuana remains a Schedule 1 illegal drug at the federal level, medical research on cannabis is severely fettered. In the meantime, the legalization of recreational cannabis will continue to affect the consumer/patient experience, and increasingly, without the oversight of a doctor. \r\n\r\n### Using Cannabis Therapies to Treat Young People \r\n\r\nDr. Jeffrey Hergenrather went to medical school at Brown University before becoming affectionately known as “Doc” at the “[The Farm](http://thefarmcommunity.com)” in Tennessee in 1976. A working eco-village and sustainable education center today, The Farm was once the nation’s largest hippie commune. When his patients at The Farm started reporting how much marijuana was helping them feel better, Dr. Hergenrather says, “I began my education about its utility and began to extensively study the use of cannabis.” \r\n\r\nMaking his way west following the passage of Prop 215 in 1996, Dr. Hergenrather has treated patients at his practice in Sebastopol, CA ever since, including the plant in his protocols for more than 40 years. \r\n\r\n“I have found enlightening and valuable benefits to using cannabis in treating ADHD, autism, genetic disorders and serious childhood diseases such as cystic fibrosis and pediatric cancer,” says Dr. Hergenrather, who is widely known for his work with children and teens. \r\n\r\nWhen treating kids with “a dismal outlook,” Dr. Hergenrather usually encourages them to stay with conventional medicine and then switch over to marijuana therapies if the family chooses to pursue cannabis as a treatment. Dr. Hergenrather reports that he has seen incredibly positive results in controlling, and even reducing, tumor growth. \r\n\r\n“Natural cannabinoids have a role in reducing abnormal cells,” explains the Sonoma County doctor. Yet, like his colleague in San Diego, Dr. Hergenrather stresses that we “still don’t fully understand the mechanism,” and that federal prohibition is a huge barrier to much-needed medical research. \r\n\r\nGenerally favoring a balance of CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) similar to Dr. Wallace, Dr. Hergenrather emphasizes the need for a medical doctor to dose cannabis appropriately to each patient. “I have a patient who is using 1 mg of CBD per day for anxiety, and it’s changing her life,” the doctor explains. He adds that every treatment plan should be tailored to the needs of each individual. \r\n\r\nWith the passage of Prop 64, Dr. Hergenrather reports that he’s heard of other medical cannabis providers losing patients; assumedly these patients are now self-medicating in the recreational marketplace. But his practice is even busier in 2018, which Dr. Hergenrather attributes to patients who are uncomfortable “self-administering doses.” \r\n\r\n“We have an industry that needs science and laboratories,” concludes Dr. Hergenrather. \r\n\r\nThough many doctors are wary of using cannabis in their practice because of the dearth of scientific studies and research, there are physicians out there who are familiar with the plant and have studied the cannabis data that do exist. If you’re thinking of using cannabis as a medical treatment, it might be worth your while to seek out such a medical professional so they can guide you towards the types of cannabis, consumption method and dosing that will give you the effects you’re after. You wouldn’t plan your own medication protocols with traditional pharmaceuticals, so why do it with cannabis? \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [COM SALUD](https://www.flickr.com/photos/com_salud/)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/14b42/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/f836f/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.jpg 200w,\n/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/2244e/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.jpg 400w,\n/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/14b42/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.jpg 800w,\n/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/47498/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.jpg 1200w,\n/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/0e329/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.jpg 1600w,\n/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/77d93/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.jpg 3600w","srcWebp":"/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/58556/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/61e93/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.webp 200w,\n/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/1f5c5/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.webp 400w,\n/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/58556/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.webp 800w,\n/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/99238/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.webp 1200w,\n/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/7c22d/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.webp 1600w,\n/static/6294b18cc258afeb6a101f45a8d46769/d4378/93dbc749eaa918ad591a72d6af23fb01.webp 3600w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2558-markdown","title":"Does Marijuana Give Athletes an Unfair Advantage? ","slug":"does-marijuana-give-athletes-an-unfair-advantage","content":"As cannabis continues to enter the mainstream, more and more athletes are talking openly about their cannabis use, or deciding to incorporate it into their training regimens because of its various benefits.\r\n\r\nThis increase in use (or increase in talking about use) begs the question: Is cannabis a performance-enhancing drug (PED)? The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), which is responsible for coordinating the fight against drugs in sports across 600 organizations internationally, seems to think so—even if many athletes who use cannabis don’t. \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\n### What’s a Performance-Enhancing Drug? \r\n\r\n2018 is the first year WADA removed cannabidiol (CBD) from its list of banned substances. However, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and the other cannabinoids in marijuana are still “prohibited in-competition.” This means that athletes are normally tested for these substances before a game, fight or meet—but not in the months leading up to or after competition. \r\n\r\nAccording to WADA and its subsidiary the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA), a substance is considered performance enhancing and thus banned in some capacity if it meets at least two of the following criteria: \r\n\r\n1. It has the potential to enhance or enhances sport performance.\r\n2. It represents an actual or potential health risk to the athlete.\r\n3. It violates the spirit of sport.\r\n\r\nOn its website, USADA says that cannabinoids meet all three of these criteria. In terms of enhancement, it cites cannabis’s ability to relax muscles, reduce pain after workouts, decrease anxiety and fear, as well as its tendency to increase focus. It also cites studies that suggest cannabis has negative effects on respiratory, cardiac and mental health. And lastly, it contends that cannabis violates the spirit of sport because its illegal status doesn’t exhibit good moral or ethical judgement. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [WHAT STUDIES SAY ABOUT CANNABIS & SPORTS PERFORMANCE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a79f125f24d1300077ccb31/what-studies-say-about-cannabis-and-sports-performance)\r\n\r\nTo many of those who are familiar with cannabis, USADA’s reasoning behind the last two criteria comes off as dated—especially when we consider the number of athletes (and successful athletes, at that) who say that cannabis helps them recover from injuries, thus contributing to their overall health. \r\n\r\nConsider NFL players, many of whom are in the spotlight, and who must endure injuries that often stick with them for the rest of their lives. \r\n\r\n“I would say there's a clear correlation between my cannabis consumption and my football career,” says [Eben Britton, an NFL veteran who used cannabis during his career in spite of its contraband status](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a724c2ff24d1300077ccb27/ex-nfl-player-eben-britton-cannabis-can-save-the-league-millions). “I played the offensive line—I was knocking heads. I was one of the guys dealing with those sub-concussive hits 80, 90, 100 times a day, five days a week.” \r\n\r\nEben currently advocates for cannabis use in the league because he believes that cannabis’s neuroprotective properties can better the life of NFL players, who are at a higher risk of head trauma than athletes in other sports. \r\n\r\n“So to me, looking back on my career, looking back at my own personal cannabis use, I started consuming more cannabis the more football I played,” he says. “And I believe that was my body intuitively needing to be supported, basically thirsting for some sort of healing, some sort of cellular nourishment which came only from cannabis.”\r\n\r\nWhether cannabis should be included on WADA’s list at all has been debated among governing sports organizations for years. And now, with cannabis’s positive effects in the spotlight, perhaps it’s time to reopen that door for discussion.  \r\n\r\n### Cannabis’s Effects Are Similar to That of Caffeine, Which Isn’t Banned\r\n\r\nIn many ways, cannabis’s effects and the ways its used among athletes bears more resemblance to nutritional supplements than to drugs that are explicitly used to enhance physical performance. \r\n\r\n[Jim McAlpine](https://www.hellomd.com/people/57b786ea066417000be2b3ee/jim420games), founder of the [420 Games](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/567715092829830008000034/the-420-games-celebrates-athletes-healthy-living-and-cannabis), an organization that promotes active lifestyle events to break down stereotypes surrounding cannabis consumers, agrees with that comparison.  \r\n\r\n“PED to me means you are gaining an unfair advantage over your competitors by using a substance that does something for you—that makes you have an unfair competitive advantage,” he says. \r\n\r\nJim says there are obvious PEDs like steroids, which enable athletes to build muscle faster than normal. \r\n\r\n“But you have to look at cannabis differently—it’s a natural herb. The easiest analogy I can use is caffeine,” he says. \r\n\r\nCaffeine, often dubbed the most widely used “drug” in the world, is legal in every sports league. \r\nWhile caffeine works differently than cannabis does in the body, it’s similar to marijuana in terms of the advantages it offers for performance enhancement—and yet it’s allowed in all leagues. Studies show that caffeine can increase airflow to the lungs and widen blood vessels, leading to increased blood flow. \r\n\r\nCannabis can do the same thing, according to the article [_Cannabis in Sport_](https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Marilyn_Huestis/publication/51707508_Cannabis_in_Sport/links/5680792d08aebccc4e07575a.pdf), which is often cited by USADA and others who believe that cannabis is a PED. Moreover, studies show that caffeine can improve mood, mental alertness and provide an energy boost—just like cannabis can. \r\n\r\n“Caffeine is legal in every league. People can drink Red Bull, take powders—do whatever they want,” says Jim. “I don’t like caffeine—it makes me shaky and not perform well, but am I to say, ‘Hey, that's a PED’? I think if you use that direct analogy, marijuana falls into the same category [as caffeine].” \r\n\r\n### Cannabis’s Illegal Status Keeps the Stigma Alive\r\n\r\nSo why is cannabis banned, while caffeine isn’t? There are numerous reasons, but cannabis’s illegal status in most parts of the world is likely the main one, and this prohibition has far-reaching consequences: It greatly affects our ability to study the plant and determine what—if any—detrimental effects on athlete’s health exist, and it promotes a negative stigma against the plant, causing it to violate “the spirit of sport.” \r\n\r\nGiven the growing popularity of cannabis, it’d be in the best interest of both governments and governing sports bodies to promote research on this topic so that athletes who use it in their training regimens can be better informed. \r\n\r\nWhat do you think? Should cannabis qualify as a performance-enhancing drug? Share your thoughts below. \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Rob Wingate](https://unsplash.com/@robwingate)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/c84fa994399eb8cdf7a65565761c470e/14b42/62316d3f83b5b0f27d18acc4c9c249fe.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c84fa994399eb8cdf7a65565761c470e/f836f/62316d3f83b5b0f27d18acc4c9c249fe.jpg 200w,\n/static/c84fa994399eb8cdf7a65565761c470e/2244e/62316d3f83b5b0f27d18acc4c9c249fe.jpg 400w,\n/static/c84fa994399eb8cdf7a65565761c470e/14b42/62316d3f83b5b0f27d18acc4c9c249fe.jpg 800w,\n/static/c84fa994399eb8cdf7a65565761c470e/47498/62316d3f83b5b0f27d18acc4c9c249fe.jpg 1200w,\n/static/c84fa994399eb8cdf7a65565761c470e/0e329/62316d3f83b5b0f27d18acc4c9c249fe.jpg 1600w,\n/static/c84fa994399eb8cdf7a65565761c470e/61e04/62316d3f83b5b0f27d18acc4c9c249fe.jpg 3720w","srcWebp":"/static/c84fa994399eb8cdf7a65565761c470e/58556/62316d3f83b5b0f27d18acc4c9c249fe.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c84fa994399eb8cdf7a65565761c470e/61e93/62316d3f83b5b0f27d18acc4c9c249fe.webp 200w,\n/static/c84fa994399eb8cdf7a65565761c470e/1f5c5/62316d3f83b5b0f27d18acc4c9c249fe.webp 400w,\n/static/c84fa994399eb8cdf7a65565761c470e/58556/62316d3f83b5b0f27d18acc4c9c249fe.webp 800w,\n/static/c84fa994399eb8cdf7a65565761c470e/99238/62316d3f83b5b0f27d18acc4c9c249fe.webp 1200w,\n/static/c84fa994399eb8cdf7a65565761c470e/7c22d/62316d3f83b5b0f27d18acc4c9c249fe.webp 1600w,\n/static/c84fa994399eb8cdf7a65565761c470e/2eea6/62316d3f83b5b0f27d18acc4c9c249fe.webp 3720w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2581-markdown","title":"3 Popular Questions About Marijuana & Edibles Answered","slug":"3-popular-questions-about-marijuana-and-edibles-answered","content":"Recently, [two police officers in Toronto raided an illegal marijuana dispensary and decided to pocket a few edibles for themselves](https://www.cbsnews.com/news/toronto-police-suspended-marijuana-cannabis-edibles-hallucinations/). They thought it’d be a good idea to eat them while still on duty and made the biggest edibles mistake you can make: Because they didn’t feel anything right away, they ate more. And then more.\n\nAnd then the cannabis hit them all at once, and they started to hallucinate. So they called for backup and were subsequently taken to the hospital. They’ve now been suspended while the police force investigates the incident. \n\nCannabis edibles are different from vaping or smoking because the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in edibles has to go through your digestive system and then be metabolized by your liver before you feel any effects. This means that for most people edibles don’t kick in until about 45–60 minutes—and sometimes up to two hours—after consuming.\n\nThe rookie mistake those police officers made was not waiting the appropriate time before seeing if they needed to consume more (and also consuming while on duty—definitely not cool, or professional for that matter). \n\nWe answer the three most popular questions about edibles. We hope that you learn something new about edibles from these Q&As, and if you’re new to edibles, please always follow the golden rule: Start low and go slow. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Q: The difference between edibles and other forms of cannabis consumption?\n**_ I've found a great deal of luck with edibles to achieve a full eight hours of sleep despite my chronic pain and tendency towards insomnia. We also have a major family history of diabetes and a family member is concerned that edibles are not the best option for me considering my family history. How can I explain to her the differences between the different methods of consuming cannabis and why edibles create a longer lasting and more relaxing effect than vaping or topical products?_**\n\nAnswer: [@kivaerica](https://www.hellomd.com/people/57f1be53aa6f01000706e94e/kivaerica) It’s wonderful to hear that you’re getting the relief you need by consuming edibles. Edibles typically take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours to take full effect. It has to work through your digestive system, going through your stomach and then your liver. We recommend that patients enjoy Kiva chocolates, or any other edibles, as a dessert so that the cannabis can process naturally with the rest of your digestive functions. Once it has been processed by your liver it turns that Delta 9 THC into a Delta 11 THC, which can create a more intense and longer-lasting effect.\n\nThat’s why edibles are the preferred method for ailments such as insomnia and pain relief. Smoking and vaping have a much faster onset, almost instantaneous, but the effect also wears off quicker. Some patients may find relief from smoking or vaping and then eating an edible for a more even keel effect. Once the smoke has worn off the edible is kicking in and they won't have to smoke or vape as often. Edibles do produce more of a bodily heavy effect, while vaping is more of a cerebral effect. When you combine the 2 you may get the best of both worlds. \n\nPlease remember that there are many different factors to take in account. Every _body_ is different, that’s why we recommend 5mg of THC as a starting dose until you know how it affects you. On a final note, I would recommend a dark chocolate line of products since they have the least amount of sugar. \n\n[Read more answers to this question](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/57f31dde2274e000072a586a/the-difference-between-edibles-and-other-forms-of-cannabis-consumption).\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dPoVp6Zh0MM`\n\n### Q: How many edibles should I take?\n**_ I have a pretty high tolerance for smoking, I have been smoking every day for the past few months and multiple times a day. I have never taken an edible before and I have a bag of 500mg sour gummies each infused with 10mg of THC. How many do you think I should take?_**\n\nAnswer:[@andrewvanmd](https://www.hellomd.com/people/55d3990c32326600062d0000/andrewvanmd) 5-10mg of THC in a whole plant extract is usually a good starting dose. With oral ingestion, the liver will process many of the compounds and create a more psychoactive compound in Delta 11 THC. On a full stomach, try a small dose, wait several hours and if needed increase the dose. Many people overindulge in edibles, experience severe psychoactive effects, get scared and have a bad time. Some even call 911 or go to the emergency room. Take caution with edibles and don't overdo it! Cannabidiol (CBD) can act as somewhat of an \"overdose\" remedy in that it will decrease the effects of THC and stretch them out over time. But don't worry too much, as no one has ever actually died from a cannabis overdose.\n\nRELATED: [5 CANNABIS EDIBLES TO SATISFY YOUR SAVORY CRAVINGS]( https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a42943d100a820006562f39/5-cannabis-edibles-to-satisfy-your-savory-cravings)\n\n### Q: Why do edibles make me so groggy? Is there any way to counteract this?\n**_When I consume edibles, it makes me very groggy and out of it the next day. Why is this? Is there any way to counteract this?_**\n\nAnswer: [@Perry Solomon, MD](https://www.hellomd.com/people/54cc02df6465320003000000/perry-solomon-md) Great question. When people start to use edibles they often think that the effect should take place as fast as when they smoke bud or use a vaporizer. With smoking or vaping the effects of the cannabis or oil can usually be felt within a few minutes. Edibles can take between one to two hours to take effect depending on how fast your digestive system works and if you've had anything to eat prior to taking the edible.\n\nSometimes the groggy feeling can result from taking too much of an edible product too close to going to sleep, if you're using it to treat your insomnia, for example. You may be still feeling the effects of the cannabis when you awaken. Some people think that they should feel some effect in the same time frame as smoking or vaping, and when that doesn't happen, they ingest more of the edible. The advice of \"go low and slow\", essentially to use a low dose and slowly increase it, applies to any cannabis product that you use to treat your medical condition, but especially to edibles for the reasons above.\n\n[Read more answers to this question](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/571e5e7040f3db000c000004/why-do-edibles-make-me-so-groggy-is-there-any-way-to-counteract-this).\n\nPhoto credit: [Stacy Spensley](https://www.flickr.com/photos/notahipster/)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/0181e4598c184adf1fd2795cf21e4f13/14b42/1ea3a2b93dc79058be56a31f977c8510.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0181e4598c184adf1fd2795cf21e4f13/f836f/1ea3a2b93dc79058be56a31f977c8510.jpg 200w,\n/static/0181e4598c184adf1fd2795cf21e4f13/2244e/1ea3a2b93dc79058be56a31f977c8510.jpg 400w,\n/static/0181e4598c184adf1fd2795cf21e4f13/14b42/1ea3a2b93dc79058be56a31f977c8510.jpg 800w,\n/static/0181e4598c184adf1fd2795cf21e4f13/47498/1ea3a2b93dc79058be56a31f977c8510.jpg 1200w,\n/static/0181e4598c184adf1fd2795cf21e4f13/0e329/1ea3a2b93dc79058be56a31f977c8510.jpg 1600w,\n/static/0181e4598c184adf1fd2795cf21e4f13/25bba/1ea3a2b93dc79058be56a31f977c8510.jpg 2868w","srcWebp":"/static/0181e4598c184adf1fd2795cf21e4f13/58556/1ea3a2b93dc79058be56a31f977c8510.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0181e4598c184adf1fd2795cf21e4f13/61e93/1ea3a2b93dc79058be56a31f977c8510.webp 200w,\n/static/0181e4598c184adf1fd2795cf21e4f13/1f5c5/1ea3a2b93dc79058be56a31f977c8510.webp 400w,\n/static/0181e4598c184adf1fd2795cf21e4f13/58556/1ea3a2b93dc79058be56a31f977c8510.webp 800w,\n/static/0181e4598c184adf1fd2795cf21e4f13/99238/1ea3a2b93dc79058be56a31f977c8510.webp 1200w,\n/static/0181e4598c184adf1fd2795cf21e4f13/7c22d/1ea3a2b93dc79058be56a31f977c8510.webp 1600w,\n/static/0181e4598c184adf1fd2795cf21e4f13/cca17/1ea3a2b93dc79058be56a31f977c8510.webp 2868w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2527-markdown","title":"6 Strengthening Moves for Parkinson’s Disease Patients","slug":"6-strengthening-moves-for-parkinsons-disease-patients","content":"Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement, balance and coordination. Folks with this progressive disease can experience muscle rigidity, tremors and stiffness in the trunk, arms and legs. That said, according to research published in _Movement Disorders_, “[exercise programs may be an effective strategy to delay or reverse functional decline for people with Parkinson’s disease](http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/mds.21922/full).” \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\nPersonal trainer [Jamel Ramiro](https://www.hellomd.com/people/57aa65444059f8000b62a8f7/jamel), who’s also the co-founder of California-based [Moonman’s Mistress](https://www.hellomd.com/biz/56f3650f7bedba000c000019/moonmans-mistress), which creates healthy paleo-centric cannabis edibles, has found regular exercise—along with plenty of sleep and a nutrient-rich diet—has helped improve the quality of life for the clients he works with who have Parkinson’s disease. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO LIVING WITH PARKINSON’S DISEASE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a3c033a100a820006562f35/a-holistic-approach-to-living-with-parkinsons-disease)\r\n\r\nFollowing are six moves that Jamel regularly incorporates into his sessions with Parkinson’s patients demonstrating a higher level of mobility. Most of the moves include progressions to suit different levels of strength—Jamel encourages Parkinson’s patients to further modify any move to match their level of fitness. \r\n\r\nThe exercises focus on building core strength and improving stability, coordination and balance. Have a look at our how-to video featuring Jamel as he takes two folks, Kevin and Jerry, both living with the disease, through each of the moves.\r\n\r\n### 6 Moves to Help Improve Core & Balance in Parkinson’s Disease Patients\r\n\r\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SAT4KHFBbVE?t=22s`\r\n\r\nStart with a warm-up that includes dynamic stretching to help warm up the core and open up the joints—specifically, the ankles, knees, hips and shoulders.\r\n\r\n### 1. Plank\r\n\r\nGet into a push-up position, feet hip-width apart and hands about shoulder-width apart. Keep your abs engaged and glutes firing—looking down, but with chin off the chest; head, neck and shoulders in line. Hold this position for 15–30 seconds (depending on your ability) and then slowly lower your body to the ground. Push yourself back up and repeat 2 more times for a total of 3 reps.\r\n\r\n**Progression:** With a partner, get into a push-up position a couple of feet apart, facing each other. Tap opposite hands—playing “patty cakes”—alternating on each side for a total of 5 taps with each hand. Keep hips square towards the ground and prevent your body from twisting as you tap hands. Repeat 2 more times, resting in between, for a total of 3 sets.\r\n\r\n**Modification:** If full push-up is too challenging, try this move with your knees on the ground.\r\n\r\n**Purpose:** Build core stability and strength.\r\n\r\n### 2. Farmer’s Carry\r\n\r\nWith your body aligned and neck relaxed, hold one heavy kettlebell (or a dumbbell) at your side. Maintain good posture, keeping a stable spine and shoulders away from ears. Walk 20 steps forward, turn and walk 20 steps back. Repeat on the other side.\r\n\r\n**Progression:** Hold one kettlebell directly over your shoulder in the overhead position, keeping your other arm by your side. Walk 20 steps forward, turn and walk 20 steps back. Switch sides. Repeat for a total of 2 sets.\r\n\r\n**Advanced Progression:** Keeping body aligned, hold kettlebells (or dumbbells) in both hands overhead, walk 20 steps forward and back. Repeat for a total of 2 sets.\r\n\r\n**Purpose:** Improve posture and balance; build core stability; promote strong, fluid bipedal locomotion. \r\n\r\n### 3. Standing Single-Leg Raises\r\n\r\nWhile standing with a stable spine and shoulders down and back, raise your arms out by your sides, then lift one leg off the floor in front of you to a 90-degree angle. Lower your leg slowly to the floor and repeat for a total of 10 times while bracing your core. Switch sides and do 10 reps with the other leg, trying to maintain balance and stability.\r\n\r\n**Progression:** Hold a dumbbell in each hand and do a bicep curl each time you raise and lower your leg according to the basic description above. Do this 10 times with each leg. \r\n\r\n**Advanced Progression:**  Hold a dumbbell in each hand and do 10 bicep curls while holding your leg in the 90-degree position, maintaining balance and stability. Repeat on the other side.\r\n\r\n**Purpose:** Improve balance; strengthen core and upper body.\r\n\r\n### 4. Superman\r\n\r\n**Kneeling Superman:** While maintaining a neutral spine, kneel on all fours with your hands under your shoulders and your knees under your hips. Reach your right arm forward and your left leg back, keeping your core tight and a straight line from head to toe. Keep hips square towards the ground and prevent your body from twisting as you lengthen. Lower your arm and leg and repeat on the other side. Do this on each side 5 times.\r\n\r\n**Progression—Superman:** Lie face down, neck relaxed, on your stomach with arms and legs fully extended. Lift your arms and legs up towards the ceiling, as if you’re flying, opening up your chest (lifting it off the ground) and arching your back while keeping your torso on the ground. Hold for a few seconds and slowly lower back down. Repeat for a total of 10 reps.\r\n\r\n**Purpose:** Build and strengthen core and spinal stability.\r\n\r\n### 5. Agility Ladder Drills\r\n\r\n**Hopscotch In-Out Drill:** Stand with feet hip-width apart at the bottom of the ladder. Hop into the first square with both feet, then hop out with both feet on the outside of the second square. Hop back into the third square with both feet, then hop out with both feet on the outside of the fourth square. Repeat this pattern until you reach the end of the ladder.\r\n\r\n**Toe-Tap Drill:** Stand to the left side of the first square, feet at a 90-degree angle to the length of the ladder. Tap the toes of your left foot into the first square and return it back to the outside of the ladder, then quickly tap your right toes into the first square and return your foot back. Continue down the side of the ladder, tapping first your left, then your right toes into each square in quick succession.\r\n\r\n**In-In Out-Out Drill**: Stand with feet hip-width apart at the bottom of the ladder. Step into the first square with your left foot and immediately follow with your right foot. Step back out of the square with your left foot and follow with your right foot. Repeat this pattern, advancing to the second, third and fourth squares, until you reach the end of the ladder.\r\n\r\nDo all 3 drills once as fast _and_ as accurately as possible, with a short rest in between each.\r\n\r\n**Purpose:** Improve coordination and balance; promote cardiovascular endurance.\r\n \r\n### 6. Surrenders\r\n\r\nOn a soft surface, start in a kneeling position and raise your arms out by your sides. Lift your right foot up and plant it in front of you, then bring your left foot forward to stand up, pressing through your heels. Bring your left knee down followed by your right knee so that you’re kneeling, making sure to keep your chest up, torso and pelvis aligned. Start the next rep by leading with your left foot, then following with your right. Complete 3 sets of 10 reps.\r\n\r\n**Progression:** Holding a dumbbell in each hand overhead, complete the basic exercise as described above. Complete 3 sets of 10 reps.\r\n\r\n**Purpose:** Focus on deceleration of the lunge to improve balance and build core stability and strength.\r\n\r\nAs with any fitness program, finish off with a cool-down that includes stretching all of the main muscle groups.\r\n\r\n“To move well is to live well,” says Jamel. Certainly, the research supports this—as does anecdotal evidence pointing to Parkinson’s patients who’ve managed to slow the disease’s progression through moving, eating and sleeping well.\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/d53759b4bf85c58a1deb0d35bd205dc5/14b42/8eb451160e1977a74615da60bf85e1fb.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d53759b4bf85c58a1deb0d35bd205dc5/f836f/8eb451160e1977a74615da60bf85e1fb.jpg 200w,\n/static/d53759b4bf85c58a1deb0d35bd205dc5/2244e/8eb451160e1977a74615da60bf85e1fb.jpg 400w,\n/static/d53759b4bf85c58a1deb0d35bd205dc5/14b42/8eb451160e1977a74615da60bf85e1fb.jpg 800w,\n/static/d53759b4bf85c58a1deb0d35bd205dc5/47498/8eb451160e1977a74615da60bf85e1fb.jpg 1200w,\n/static/d53759b4bf85c58a1deb0d35bd205dc5/87a34/8eb451160e1977a74615da60bf85e1fb.jpg 1461w","srcWebp":"/static/d53759b4bf85c58a1deb0d35bd205dc5/58556/8eb451160e1977a74615da60bf85e1fb.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d53759b4bf85c58a1deb0d35bd205dc5/61e93/8eb451160e1977a74615da60bf85e1fb.webp 200w,\n/static/d53759b4bf85c58a1deb0d35bd205dc5/1f5c5/8eb451160e1977a74615da60bf85e1fb.webp 400w,\n/static/d53759b4bf85c58a1deb0d35bd205dc5/58556/8eb451160e1977a74615da60bf85e1fb.webp 800w,\n/static/d53759b4bf85c58a1deb0d35bd205dc5/99238/8eb451160e1977a74615da60bf85e1fb.webp 1200w,\n/static/d53759b4bf85c58a1deb0d35bd205dc5/37e48/8eb451160e1977a74615da60bf85e1fb.webp 1461w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2524-markdown","title":"Cannabis Use in Sports from Medieval to Modern Times","slug":"cannabis-use-in-sports-from-medieval-to-modern-times","content":"Cannabis use in the athletic world has received a lot of press lately due to many professional athletes coming out of the closet regarding their marijuana use. Athletes who use cannabis say that it helps them train by allowing them to focus and feel less fatigued. Other athletes use marijuana to help them recover—this is especially the case for professionals who rely on their bodies for their livelihoods.\r\n\r\nHowever, the use of marijuana in this manner is nothing new—in fact it’s quite old, tracing its roots far back to soldiers hundreds of years ago. \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\n### Medieval Warriors Were Our First Cannabis-Consuming Athletes \r\n\r\nCannabis was used by warriors in different cultures because of its ability to lower inhibition and boost focus—both valuable in battle. According to the book _Marihuana: The First Twelve Thousand Years_, folk songs from medieval India mention _ganja_ as a “drink of warriors.” It was common for soldiers during this time to consume _bhang_—a cannabis paste often used to make drinks—before battle to calm their nerves and reduce pain during battle.\r\n\r\n_Bhang_ still enjoys widespread use in India today and is [popular among wrestler and body-building castes](https://publishing.cdlib.org/ucpressebooks/view?docId=ft6n39p104;chunk.id=0;doc.view=print) in the country. \r\n\r\nIndians weren’t the only people to use cannabis for battle—south African tribes such as the Zulus, Swazis and Sothos were known to use cannabis to aid in their attacks against the British in the 1800s. According to Ian Wright’s book about the Anglo-Zulu War in 1879, the Swazi army used marijuana to “enhance aggression and stave off fatigue.”\r\n\r\nIt’s also said that [young Zulu warriors smoked _dagga_](https://sencanada.ca/content/sen/committee/371/ille/library/spicer-e.htm#_ftn66)—the south African equivalent of a joint—because it allowed them to accomplish “hazardous feats.” \r\n\r\nRELATED: [HOW CANNABIS AFFECTS SPORTS PERFORMANCE & RECOVERY](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a1df0f2eea891000897e273/how-cannabis-affects-sports-performance-and-recovery)\r\n\r\n### The War on Drugs Criminalizes the Use of Marijuana  \r\n\r\nCannabis use among soldiers during the Vietnam War was quite common for many of the same reasons warriors of the past used the plant—cannabis helped calm anxieties and fears before battle. Doctors at the time validated these claims and argued in favor of the troops’ cannabis use.\r\n\r\nSoldiers who came home from the war brought their habits back with them, contributing to the surge in cannabis’s popularity in the ’60s and ’70s. The prevalence of cannabis use among athletes during this time is unknown but who can forget that iconic seen in the 1977 docudrama “Pumping Iron” of Arnold Schwarzenegger smoking a joint? \r\n\r\nIn the midst of the War on Drugs in the ’80s and ’90s, fines, arrests and repercussions from sports leagues were common. Case in point, Ross Rebagliati won the gold medal for snowboarding in the 1998 winter Olympics, but had his medal revoked after he tested positive for tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)—he was given back his medal a short time later.\r\n\r\nEven into the early 2000s, athletes were still being reprimanded for their cannabis use: In 2004, Ricky Williams retired from the NFL after failing three drug tests and facing a year of suspension for his cannabis use, which he says helped him with pain and his social anxiety disorder.  \r\n\r\n### Attitudes Towards Cannabis Are Finally Changing in the Sports Arena\r\n\r\nFast forward to the mid 2010s and beyond—attitudes towards cannabis are changing rapidly. In 2013, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) increased the amount of THC athletes are allowed to test positive for from 15 nanograms (ng) per milliliter (mL) of urine to 150 ng/mL.\r\n\r\nTo give you an idea of this change, Rebagliati tested positive for THC in 1998 with 17.8ng/mL. WADA says that the change in numbers was to penalize athletes who are using the plant to enhance performance—not to punish use outside of competition. (Whether cannabis is indeed a performance-enhancing drug is still up for debate.) \r\n\r\nToday, a growing number of athletes from all creeds talk about their cannabis use, whether it’s for training, performance and recovery—or simply as part of a healthy lifestyle. Avery Collins, an ultra-marathoner talks freely about his cannabis use and how it enhances his training—though he’s careful to avoid crediting his success to cannabis.\r\n\r\nAnd more recently, UFC champion Nate Diaz strolled into a press conference puffing on a CBD vape pen following his loss to Connor McGregor. Diaz cited the phytocannabinoid’s ability to help with inflammation and healing, saying that he uses it before and after fights.  \r\n\r\nIn America, sports stars are often agents of social change—when Muhammed Ali spoke about civil rights or when Colin Kaepernick took a knee, people paid attention. The growing number of professional athletes advocating for responsible cannabis use bodes well for the plant’s inclusion in sports for years to come. \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Steven Lelham](https://unsplash.com/@slelham)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAPABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAwABAv/EABcBAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAwT/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAVFSlp25h//EABgQAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEQAiEx/9oACAEBAAEFAsFyZC//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQ/9oACAEDAQE/AT//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQ/9oACAECAQE/AT//xAAWEAADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQICH/2gAIAQEABj8CSD//xAAaEAACAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEQAQIVHB/9oACAEBAAE/ISWHUwAtB2vmv//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQ99//xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEP/aAAgBAwEBPxBn/8QAFREBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARD/2gAIAQIBAT8QJ//EABkQAQEBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERADEhof/aAAgBAQABPxA1Ti6xKph2UT5l95qJHmT2watcfIZfd//Z","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/1e959698279c3aba2a66013f08d50767/14b42/2a7a3fe7c0beb8fe876bfb4ed776a375.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1e959698279c3aba2a66013f08d50767/f836f/2a7a3fe7c0beb8fe876bfb4ed776a375.jpg 200w,\n/static/1e959698279c3aba2a66013f08d50767/2244e/2a7a3fe7c0beb8fe876bfb4ed776a375.jpg 400w,\n/static/1e959698279c3aba2a66013f08d50767/14b42/2a7a3fe7c0beb8fe876bfb4ed776a375.jpg 800w,\n/static/1e959698279c3aba2a66013f08d50767/47498/2a7a3fe7c0beb8fe876bfb4ed776a375.jpg 1200w,\n/static/1e959698279c3aba2a66013f08d50767/0e329/2a7a3fe7c0beb8fe876bfb4ed776a375.jpg 1600w,\n/static/1e959698279c3aba2a66013f08d50767/f6493/2a7a3fe7c0beb8fe876bfb4ed776a375.jpg 2605w","srcWebp":"/static/1e959698279c3aba2a66013f08d50767/58556/2a7a3fe7c0beb8fe876bfb4ed776a375.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/1e959698279c3aba2a66013f08d50767/61e93/2a7a3fe7c0beb8fe876bfb4ed776a375.webp 200w,\n/static/1e959698279c3aba2a66013f08d50767/1f5c5/2a7a3fe7c0beb8fe876bfb4ed776a375.webp 400w,\n/static/1e959698279c3aba2a66013f08d50767/58556/2a7a3fe7c0beb8fe876bfb4ed776a375.webp 800w,\n/static/1e959698279c3aba2a66013f08d50767/99238/2a7a3fe7c0beb8fe876bfb4ed776a375.webp 1200w,\n/static/1e959698279c3aba2a66013f08d50767/7c22d/2a7a3fe7c0beb8fe876bfb4ed776a375.webp 1600w,\n/static/1e959698279c3aba2a66013f08d50767/c286b/2a7a3fe7c0beb8fe876bfb4ed776a375.webp 2605w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2539-markdown","title":"How to Add Cannabis to Your Fitness Routine","slug":"how-to-add-cannabis-to-your-fitness-routine","content":"The start of a new year often inspires people to re-commit to a fitness routine—or begin a new one altogether. In either case, there’s something you can add to your workout program that could give you an edge you’ve never had before: marijuana. Adding cannabis to your workout routine can provide a spark of energy, increase focus and performance, and promote healing—a perfect combination to help you succeed with your New Year’s resolution. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Cannabis Can Make Your Workouts More Enjoyable\n\nDespite the long-held stereotype that cannabis and exercise are like oil and water—meaning, they don’t mix, mounting scientific evidence shows that ingesting marijuana can help make your workouts more enjoyable. The elusive “runner’s high” that many feel during prolonged exercise has historically been associated with endorphins, but a study published by the National Academy of Sciences disrupts that idea. The study, conducted on mice, concluded that [a runner’s high is actually more of a result of an endocannabinoid called anandamide](http://www.pnas.org/content/112/42/13105.abstract, the human body’s self-produced version of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). \n\nYou can use THC as a shortcut to kickstarting your runner’s high, making your workout more pleasurable from the very beginning. Assistant Professor of Biology Gregory Gerdeman at Eckerd College said in an interview with _Greatist_, “Runner’s joy—whether natural or marijuana induced—can minimize distraction and help exercise be not just a means to an end but an enjoyment.” \n\nRELATED: [HOW ATHLETES GET A BOOST FROM THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a442705100a820006562f3d/how-athletes-get-a-boost-from-the-endocannabinoid-system) \n\n### Marijuana Can Help Increase Your Airflow When You’re Exercising\n\nOne of the most important parts of an effective workout is [controlled breathing, which can help your muscles relax and lengthen](https://www.livestrong.com/article/114694-importance-breathing-during-exercise/). Temporary bronchodilators, which smooth the airways to allow for better airflow, are often used before workouts to prevent exercise-induced asthma. \n\nA 1973 study published in _The New England Journal of Medicine_ looked into cannabis as a bronchodilator. The study concluded that [unlike cigarette smoke, cannabis smoke does, indeed, cause bronchodilation (expanding of the air passages)](http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJM197305102881902). \n\nA study published in the _British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology_ seems to confirm the claim that [cannabis can be an effective bronchodilator](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1429361/). Tested on five asthmatic patients, the study concluded that the right dose of THC consumed via aerosol is effective at temporarily increasing airflow. \n\n### Make Your Recovery More Effective With Marijuana\n\nTaking time for proper recovery is an important part of any exercise routine. Vigorous exercise can lead to painful inflammation, a natural process initiated by our bodies to battle tissue damage. When we exercise, our muscles incur damage that sparks inflammation. The soreness that comes with inflammation can keep us from going back to the gym for several days. \n\nBut a proper recovery routine can limit inflammation and get you back to your workouts in no time. [Cannabis has extremely effective anti-inflammatory properties](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55a3f31338323000062f0000/medical-marijuana-as-an-aid-against-inflammation), making it a perfect partner for exercise recovery. This helps explain why cannabis topicals focused on muscle pain relief are so popular. \n\n### Here’s How You Can Incorporate Cannabis Into Your Workouts\n\n**Bike With a High-CBD Vape Pen** \n\n![Jetty Extracts High-CBD Vape Pen](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5a550d2ec7e0180007a78265-b4aae51d-7639-40aa-8f27-1233d037d36f/original.png)\n\nIf you’re nervous about being high while exercising, skip the serious psychoactive effects by using a vape pen high in cannabidiol (CBD) instead. [Jetty Extracts’ CBD blend vape cartridge]( https://www.hellomd.com/biz/5890ded5519db3000cf0f665/jetty-extracts/our-story) is an excellent way to consume marijuana during exercise. Jetty Extracts’ blend uses whole plant cannabis to give you all of the benefits of the entire plant, without feeling high. Bring this vape pen on your next bike ride for a nice, mellow workout. \n\n**Hike With A Hybrid Pre-Roll**\n\n![Blue Sage Hybrid Pre-Roll](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5a550d2ec7e0180007a78265-80d92769-e89e-4b01-a95f-96cf95807477/original.png)\n\nDo you like to get out of the gym and exercise in nature? Next time you go for a hike, take a high-quality pre-roll with you, like these Harlequin pre-rolled cones by Blue Sage Boutique. Harlequin is technically a sativa-dominant strain, but its consistent expression of CBD makes for a pretty ideal mixture. This strain is known for having the pain relief of a high-CBD strain, the relaxation of an indica, and the focus of a sativa all in one. You’ll be able to relax and really enjoy being present in the great outdoors without feeling too sedated to finish your hike. \n\n**Lift Weights With a Low Dose of a High-THC Tincture**\n\n![Emerald Alchemy High-TCH Tincture](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5a550d2ec7e0180007a78265-17887967-6c74-485f-8b60-8ced43fcbd1e/original.png)\n\nLifting weights already requires focus; your form needs to be perfect to get maximum benefit from each rep—and to reduce your chance of injury. Despite the stereotype of the spaced-out stoner, there’s anecdotal evidence that [cannabis, especially sativa-based strains, can actually be effective in increasing focus](https://www.mensjournal.com/health-fitness/get-high-train-harder-20141113/). Next time you need to lift weights, reach for a high-THC tincture like this one from Emerald Alchemy. Try taking a low dose (about a third of a dropper) 30 minutes before your workout. \n\n**Recover With a Cannabis-Infused Bath Soak**\n\n![Om Cannabis-Infused Bath Soak](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5a550d2ec7e0180007a78265-6e3a3ba4-0809-4f71-b5e7-a61f06a8bdc0/original.png)\n\nEnding your workout with a long soak in the bathtub can work magic on sore muscles. Try infusing your bath with Om’s Epsom Mineral Soak: Athletic Formula. Epsom salt has long been a recovery tool for athletes, helping to draw out the toxins from muscles that are associated with the soreness and pain of a hard workout. Combined with cannabis to relieve inflammation, this duo is pretty unstoppable. Just toss the entire contents of one container in a bath of your preferred temperature and let the medicine do its magic. \n\nIf you’re already using cannabis in your regular fitness routine, we’d love to read your tips and tricks in [HelloMD’s Answers section](https://www.hellomd.com/answers).\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/976bde28a9b9a7abd015c36c35caf605/ee604/a5f39ec413ea65bed240c0535aa38605.png","srcSet":"/static/976bde28a9b9a7abd015c36c35caf605/69585/a5f39ec413ea65bed240c0535aa38605.png 200w,\n/static/976bde28a9b9a7abd015c36c35caf605/497c6/a5f39ec413ea65bed240c0535aa38605.png 400w,\n/static/976bde28a9b9a7abd015c36c35caf605/ee604/a5f39ec413ea65bed240c0535aa38605.png 800w,\n/static/976bde28a9b9a7abd015c36c35caf605/f3583/a5f39ec413ea65bed240c0535aa38605.png 1200w,\n/static/976bde28a9b9a7abd015c36c35caf605/f1545/a5f39ec413ea65bed240c0535aa38605.png 1293w","srcWebp":"/static/976bde28a9b9a7abd015c36c35caf605/58556/a5f39ec413ea65bed240c0535aa38605.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/976bde28a9b9a7abd015c36c35caf605/61e93/a5f39ec413ea65bed240c0535aa38605.webp 200w,\n/static/976bde28a9b9a7abd015c36c35caf605/1f5c5/a5f39ec413ea65bed240c0535aa38605.webp 400w,\n/static/976bde28a9b9a7abd015c36c35caf605/58556/a5f39ec413ea65bed240c0535aa38605.webp 800w,\n/static/976bde28a9b9a7abd015c36c35caf605/99238/a5f39ec413ea65bed240c0535aa38605.webp 1200w,\n/static/976bde28a9b9a7abd015c36c35caf605/7a972/a5f39ec413ea65bed240c0535aa38605.webp 1293w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2505-markdown","title":"Meet 3 Artists Who Use Cannabis to Spark Their Creativity ","slug":"meet-3-artists-who-use-cannabis-to-spark-their-creativity","content":"Artists and those familiar with cannabis have long known about this plant’s ability to promote creativity. And with the start of a new year, now might just be the best time for the uninitiated to partake in marijuana’s pleasant, mind-altering effects. We sat down with three artists to get a sense of how cannabis contributes to their creative practice—and what advice they have for those who’ve yet to try marijuana for this purpose.    \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\n### 1. Anjelica Colliard, Drawing & Printmaking \r\n\r\n![iAnjelica Colliard uses cannabis to help create her drawings and prints](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5a53b186100a820006562f54-99ef6599-a106-41d8-86d5-81d60bfeac97/original.png)\r\nOakland-based artist Anjelica Colliard specializes in drawing, printmaking and zine production. For the past four years, her work has been centered around what she calls “fantastical plant and jungle worlds.” Her current work is a way to explore 2D concepts—such as patterns and visual contrast—she’s interested in.  \r\n\r\nSays Angelica, “[Cannabis] has definitely helped me let go of some of the anxieties that I have around art-making. … You worry less about something being perfect.”\r\n\r\nFor Anjelica, marijuana has become a tool to reinvigorate her mind—especially when she needs to look at concepts in a different way. However, she also cautions that cannabis can be a hindrance for work that requires precision, so when it comes to technical or dexterous tasks, she skips cannabis altogether. \r\n\r\n“I'm a little joint queen—that's what I would call myself,” says Anjelica. “There’s something more luxurious about them, and in turn, more relaxing and indulgent—sort of like drinking beer out of the can versus pouring it into a chilled glass.”\r\n\r\nAnjelica says that sativas or sativa hybrids tend to boost her creativity, and she thinks they could be a good option for those who tend not to get too anxious. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [TOP 5 MARIJUANA STRAINS FOR BEGINNERS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a4bcba8100a820006562f48/top-5-marijuana-strains-for-beginners)\r\n\r\nAnjelica advises newbies to “come into it without huge expectations—just give yourself time and space to do whatever is on your mind. It should be your brainstorming time and your rough draft time.” She notes that these instances are also a great opportunity to make things with your friends. “Try that out and have a little draw party,” she says. \r\n\r\nAnjelica’s website: [www.anjelicacolliard.com](https://www.anjelicacolliard.com/)\r\n\r\nAnjelica’s Instagram: [@jellicore](https://www.instagram.com/jellicore/)\r\n\r\n\r\n### 2. Krusty Wheatfield, Cartoons \r\n\r\n![iCartoonist Krusty Wheatfield says marijuana helps her get in the zone when creating](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5a53b186100a820006562f54-08a1530b-e31b-4aec-8502-4b234a97b37b/original.png)\r\n\r\n“Non-fiction,” “dark humor” and “funny-looking people in weird situations” are just some of the words Krusty Wheatfield uses to describe her work. She enjoys the comic medium for its ability to express “simultaneous, but conflicting circumstances.”\r\n\r\nKrusty’s currently working on a comic biography of counterculture publisher [V. Vale]( https://www.researchpubs.com/about/), collaborating with other artists to put up a show about wills (as in will and testament) and performing in her new band Dingbat Superminx. \r\n\r\nKrusty says that cannabis helps get her in the zone and work through the initial humps that unavoidably come with making art. “In the beginning it’s always like, ‘Oh, this looks stupid. I wanna give up,’” she says. “But if you smoke a little you can keep going. … It makes your ego shut up for a minute so your brain can be more child-like and full of wonder.” \r\n\r\nShe goes on to describe cannabis’s ability to let her brain connect seemingly disparate concepts, a phenomenon that scientists call divergent thinking—and which is often thought of as the foundation of human creativity.\r\n\r\n“[Cannabis] helps you collage and mix the elements of the world more easily. The barriers between ideas don't seem as important—or they show themselves to be limits that you put on what ideas can go together,” she says, adding “I’m a sativa girl.”\r\n\r\nKrusty writes everything down when smoking—her preferred consumption method. “Have a little field note book and a pen that you like to draw with,” she advises. “I literally make a line and follow it and turn it into something. Do a scribble or a blob of paint or two and try to make it into a creature or a scene.”\r\n\r\nFor new consumers, Krusty offers this piece of advice: “Don’t think, ‘Oh, I’m going to get stoned now and wait for my brain to produce these amazing things.’ [Cannabis] is a tool to use on the ideas you already have—to let them free.”\r\n\r\nKrusty’s website: [www.krustywheatfield.com](http://www.krustywheatfield.com/)\r\n\r\nKrusty’s Instagram: [@krustywheatfield](https://www.instagram.com/krustywheatfield/)\r\n\r\n\r\n### 3. Dmitry Bikkinin, Cinematography & Photography\r\n\r\n![Dmitry Bikkinin says marijuana helps him see things he normally wouldn't while filming and editing](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5a53b186100a820006562f54-3ef8493d-13af-4004-b388-a9371097b956/original.png)\r\n\r\nDmitry Bikkinin is a San Francisco-based cinematographer and photographer, who also happens to work for HelloMD. When he’s not at work, he focuses on narrative and documentary film as well as contemporary and black-and-white photography. \r\n\r\nFor Dmitry, incorporating cannabis into his creative process happened naturally because it helped him get “in the zone.” He says, “Cannabis helps me see things I normally wouldn’t see,” and adds that marijuana helps him pick up patterns and reflections in his photographs more easily.\r\n\r\nIn addition, cannabis helps Dmitry block out extraneous concepts in his black-and-white photographs. “Instead of looking and seeing the content of [a picture], you see the shapes,” he explains. \r\n\r\nDmitry’s creative pursuits require technical mastery of various moving elements—consider the different settings required for taking that perfect picture. He says that cannabis allows him to work intuitively, without second-guessing himself. “It gives me this untapped ability of good guessing,” he says. “[Cannabis] helps me slow down the time in my head to get all those [elements] together—expose it this way, frame it over there, get the focal length right—it's like, I know exactly what I’m doing.” \r\n\r\nDmitry prefers to use cannabis concentrates because they work quickly and are convenient. When he’s shooting, he prefers cannabis that’s more energizing. When he’s in the editing or post-production process, he prefers something with more indica characteristics. \r\n\r\nWhile Dmitry is a huge proponent of cannabis and the creative process, he says new users should already know their gear flawlessly in order to be successful.  \r\n\r\nDmitry’s website: [www.dbikk.com](http://dbikk.format.com/#1)\r\n\r\nDmitry’s Twitter: [@dmbikk](https://twitter.com/dmbikk)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.36986301369863,"src":"/static/63e9b5a556458dec4a9184e82eb901ad/14b42/8211cdc3d248cdeb2edc9863480739a2.jpg","srcSet":"/static/63e9b5a556458dec4a9184e82eb901ad/f836f/8211cdc3d248cdeb2edc9863480739a2.jpg 200w,\n/static/63e9b5a556458dec4a9184e82eb901ad/2244e/8211cdc3d248cdeb2edc9863480739a2.jpg 400w,\n/static/63e9b5a556458dec4a9184e82eb901ad/14b42/8211cdc3d248cdeb2edc9863480739a2.jpg 800w,\n/static/63e9b5a556458dec4a9184e82eb901ad/47498/8211cdc3d248cdeb2edc9863480739a2.jpg 1200w,\n/static/63e9b5a556458dec4a9184e82eb901ad/0e329/8211cdc3d248cdeb2edc9863480739a2.jpg 1600w,\n/static/63e9b5a556458dec4a9184e82eb901ad/425d8/8211cdc3d248cdeb2edc9863480739a2.jpg 3251w","srcWebp":"/static/63e9b5a556458dec4a9184e82eb901ad/58556/8211cdc3d248cdeb2edc9863480739a2.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/63e9b5a556458dec4a9184e82eb901ad/61e93/8211cdc3d248cdeb2edc9863480739a2.webp 200w,\n/static/63e9b5a556458dec4a9184e82eb901ad/1f5c5/8211cdc3d248cdeb2edc9863480739a2.webp 400w,\n/static/63e9b5a556458dec4a9184e82eb901ad/58556/8211cdc3d248cdeb2edc9863480739a2.webp 800w,\n/static/63e9b5a556458dec4a9184e82eb901ad/99238/8211cdc3d248cdeb2edc9863480739a2.webp 1200w,\n/static/63e9b5a556458dec4a9184e82eb901ad/7c22d/8211cdc3d248cdeb2edc9863480739a2.webp 1600w,\n/static/63e9b5a556458dec4a9184e82eb901ad/1eace/8211cdc3d248cdeb2edc9863480739a2.webp 3251w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2506-markdown","title":"4 Ways Marijuana Can Make You a Better Athlete","slug":"4-ways-marijuana-can-make-you-a-better-athlete","content":"As the stigma surrounding cannabis slowly fades and knowledge of its benefits continues to spread, an increasing number of professional athletes are coming out of the closet and admitting to cannabis use for sports performance. \r\n\r\nStudies involving cannabis and exercise science are limited, and those that do exist often serve to discourage marijuana use in sports. However, plenty of anecdotal evidence and some scientific studies vouch for the reasons athletes use cannabis to help them train—among them the ability to enhance focus, reduce anxiety and eliminate feelings of fatigue. There might also be other performance-boosting mechanisms that athletes have yet to widely acknowledge, like marijuana’s ability to act as a bronchodilator and stimulate blood flow. \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\n### 1. Marijuana Can Help Athletes Focus \r\n\r\nMany endurance and combat athletes say cannabis helps them focus during training and competition. [Jim McAlpine](https://www.hellomd.com/people/57b786ea066417000be2b3ee/jim420games), founder of the 420 Games, says cannabis brings him into “flow state,” a psychological term used to describe full immersion in an activity wherein a person experiences feelings of focus and enjoyment in the task at hand—or as Jim puts it, “It’s when your body and mind become one.” \r\n\r\nWhat Jim says makes sense when you consider a more extreme case: Adults with ADHD who medicate with cannabis find that it helps them relax and focus. Some even prefer it over prescription medications. A study earlier this year found [preliminary evidence supporting cannabis use for ADHD](http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0924977X17302377), although the exact mechanism of how cannabis enhances focus in ADHD patients is still not understood.  ADHD/ADD seems to result from a dysfunction in dopamine release and uptake in the brain so it’s likely that cannabis, which is intricately linked to the body’s dopamine signaling system, may be influencing ADHD patients in some way. \r\n\r\nHowever, many people would argue that cannabis has the opposite effect on them, and just because cannabis can enhance focus in those with ADHD, doesn’t mean it can have the same effect across a population of people with a variety of brain chemistries. To address this, VapeXhale Founder [Seibo Shen](https://www.hellomd.com/people/569c5569aadede0008000012/seiboshen/questions/following)—who uses cannabis as part of a training regimen for combat athletes—has his clients establish athletic goals before starting a cannabis training regimen. He then uses cannabis to help them zero in on those goals. \r\n\r\n“Weed brings you back to a child's mind,” he says. “You see something interesting and your attention focuses on that interesting thing. If we make that thing your competition—that's when we increase performance.” Seibo uses cannabis to help his clients become “supple leopards”—calm and focused, yet also dynamic and ready to spring into action.\r\n\r\nRELATED: [3 POPULAR QUESTIONS ABOUT MARIJUANA & SPORTS ANSWERED](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a287acc100a820006562eba/3-popular-questions-about-marijuana-and-sports-answered)\r\n\r\n### 2. Marijuana Can Make Athletes Less Anxious\r\n\r\nReducing anxiety with cannabis can have a number of applications for athletes—whether it’s calming nerves prior to a race or helping them get a good night’s sleep before game day. Anti-anxiety properties are usually associated with cannabidiol (CBD), which has shown much promise in the treatment of mood disorders. However, plenty of people anecdotally state that even cannabis with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) has helped them with anxiety issues.\r\n\r\nWhile research into THC’s anti-anxiety properties is more limited than with CBD, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) thinks that cannabis with THC can help with anxiety, which is why it’s still considered a performance-enhancing drug (PED). In 2013, the agency raised the levels of marijuana athletes were allowed to have in their system so that out-of-competition use wouldn’t necessarily disqualify them.\r\n\r\nWADA was interested in testing for athletes who were using the plant to enhance performance, citing cannabis’s ability to decrease anxiety and fear, as well as improve some types of concentration and oxygenation. Of course, whether cannabis should be classified as a PED, on par with steroids or other drugs, is up for debate. \r\n\r\n### 3. Marijuana May Help Athletes Breathe Better\r\n\r\nA few small studies suggest that THC can act as a bronchodilator—in other words, it can increase airflow to the lungs—a characteristic that can help some athletes perform better. Previous studies in asthmatic patients have found that [THC’s anti-inflammatory properties reverse constriction in the lungs](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/656294). Additionally, a small 12-person study conducted in 1986 found that [smoking cannabis induced bronchodilation during and after exercise](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3097453), leading some to consider cannabis’s performance-enhancing abilities at a physiological level. \r\n\r\n“I think that on some level [cannabis] helps with your ability to take in oxygen and regulate your heart rate,” says Jim. “It’s sad that we don’t have enough data on this.” In spite of the lack of research on this topic, some athletes have already tuned into these possible benefits. Brittney Lusk, a jiu-jitsu fighter began using cannabis to help her have more control over her body when training. \r\n\r\n“I use [cannabis] for mindfulness, breathing and maintaining my heartrate,” she says. “It’s important when you’re in jiu-jitsu that you don’t freak out and increase your heart rate, so being mindful of your breathing very important.”\r\n\r\n### 4. Marijuana Can Help Athletes Work Out Longer & Harder\r\n\r\nStudies suggest that our bodies’ own endocannabinoids play a role in the “runner’s high” we sometimes experience when exercising—a state that’s usually associated with reduced pain and anxiety, as well as general feelings of contentment. Molecules called endorphins are what are often associated with the “runner’s high,” but endorphins can’t actually pass through the blood-brain barrier, causing some scientists to hypothesize that something else is contributing to this blissful state. \r\n\r\nResearchers have found increased levels of the endocannabinoid AEA in mice after exercise, and scientists at the University of Texas Health Center found that [people had higher levels of the endocannabinoids in their bloodstream after moderate intensity treadmill running](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00421-012-2495-5). This suggests that endocannabinoids play a role in the “runner’s high” that often increases our pain threshold so that we can work out longer and harder. \r\n\r\nTHC mimics our bodies’ own endocannabinoids so it’s not surprising that some athletes use cannabis to help them extend and improve the quality of their workouts. \r\n\r\nCarlos Chavez, an amateur mixed martial arts fighter and participant in [Cannathlete](https://cannathlete.myshopify.com/) uses marijuana when he’s lifting weights because it allows him to push through the pain and do more repetitions. Jim reports similar experiences—in college, cannabis helped motivate him to hit the gym for long training sessions. \r\n\r\n“When I would smoke, I'd stay [in the gym] twice as long…lifting as hard as I could. I began to see that cannabis was the biggest motivator for me to get off the couch and go to the gym,” he says. \r\n\r\n### Tips for Trying Cannabis With a Sport\r\n\r\nCannabis has numerous applications in sports. However, it’s important to remember that using cannabis in this way isn’t for everyone. People who use cannabis to boost performance already tend to be decently athletic, says Jim. In addition, he’s noticed a trend in the type of sports that are more likely to benefit from the increased focus and relaxation that cannabis induces.\r\n\r\n“Where [cannabis] is most prevalent and beneficial are in communities where your brain is a big piece of getting to the finish line—it's more individual,” he says. \r\n\r\nIf using cannabis during a workout is something you’d like to try, Jim recommends recruiting an exercise buddy. He also advises users to “start incredibly slow, always err on the side of caution, take less rather than more.”\r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Dimon Blr](https://unsplash.com/@dimonblr)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/0d4e74f7252905368d2d4a1a7d9f6a07/14b42/6e357d75be83c5f980fa88ff9beb06ed.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0d4e74f7252905368d2d4a1a7d9f6a07/f836f/6e357d75be83c5f980fa88ff9beb06ed.jpg 200w,\n/static/0d4e74f7252905368d2d4a1a7d9f6a07/2244e/6e357d75be83c5f980fa88ff9beb06ed.jpg 400w,\n/static/0d4e74f7252905368d2d4a1a7d9f6a07/14b42/6e357d75be83c5f980fa88ff9beb06ed.jpg 800w,\n/static/0d4e74f7252905368d2d4a1a7d9f6a07/47498/6e357d75be83c5f980fa88ff9beb06ed.jpg 1200w,\n/static/0d4e74f7252905368d2d4a1a7d9f6a07/0e329/6e357d75be83c5f980fa88ff9beb06ed.jpg 1600w,\n/static/0d4e74f7252905368d2d4a1a7d9f6a07/8915c/6e357d75be83c5f980fa88ff9beb06ed.jpg 2490w","srcWebp":"/static/0d4e74f7252905368d2d4a1a7d9f6a07/58556/6e357d75be83c5f980fa88ff9beb06ed.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0d4e74f7252905368d2d4a1a7d9f6a07/61e93/6e357d75be83c5f980fa88ff9beb06ed.webp 200w,\n/static/0d4e74f7252905368d2d4a1a7d9f6a07/1f5c5/6e357d75be83c5f980fa88ff9beb06ed.webp 400w,\n/static/0d4e74f7252905368d2d4a1a7d9f6a07/58556/6e357d75be83c5f980fa88ff9beb06ed.webp 800w,\n/static/0d4e74f7252905368d2d4a1a7d9f6a07/99238/6e357d75be83c5f980fa88ff9beb06ed.webp 1200w,\n/static/0d4e74f7252905368d2d4a1a7d9f6a07/7c22d/6e357d75be83c5f980fa88ff9beb06ed.webp 1600w,\n/static/0d4e74f7252905368d2d4a1a7d9f6a07/a1970/6e357d75be83c5f980fa88ff9beb06ed.webp 2490w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2522-markdown","title":"Should I Do a Cannabis Tolerance Cleanse?","slug":"should-i-do-a-cannabis-tolerance-cleanse","content":"How many of your friends and family are planning on doing some kind of cleanse as part of their New Year’s resolution? Or are you the one swearing off alcohol or junk food for the month of January? This time of year, it seems like practically everyone is cutting out something in search of a fresh start. Increasingly, people are also choosing to begin the new year with a marijuana tolerance cleanse. \n  \nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### How Does our Tolerance for Cannabis Increase?\n\nDespite limited data, researchers have concluded a few things about cannabis tolerance. The first is that people build up a tolerance to marijuana pretty rapidly, so you’re more immune to the plant’s effects as consumption goes on. \n\nIt’s now known that [genetics play an important role on how immune someone is to cannabis and its effects](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26464454). Studies have also shown that [women build up a tolerance to cannabis faster than men](https://news.wsu.edu/2014/09/03/females-more-sensitive-to-cannabis-males-get-munchies/#.VA8G92RdWcI).  \n\nAccording to [a 2003 study published in the _European Journal of Pharmacology_](http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0014299902028546), chronic cannabis use results in the desensitization of CB1 receptors. [CB1 receptors are part of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and located largely throughout the brain](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16570100); they’re activated by cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The more desensitized these receptors become, the less sensitive you are to THC and its psychoactive effects. \n\n### Benefits of a Cannabis Tolerance Cleanse\n\nWhile we build up a tolerance to cannabis quickly, we lose that tolerance just as rapidly. Abstaining from cannabis for three to seven days at a time can knock a person’s tolerance level down and help generate more sensitivity in their CB1 receptors. This means a person would feel the psychoactive aspects of cannabis more vividly while consuming a smaller amount of product. \n\nIf you’re a daily cannabis user, odds are your tolerance is high, especially if you’re consuming high-quality, high-THC products. Or maybe you’ve noticed it takes a larger dose of cannabis than it used to, to achieve the desired effects. These are two clear signs you might be due for a cannabis tolerance cleanse. \n\nCompleting a three- to seven-day marijuana cleanse every three months can bring all sorts of benefits, including: \n\n* Helping to lower your tolerance level so you can feel all of the effects of cannabis—like pain or anxiety relief—more potently. \n\n* Saving you money because it will take less cannabis to achieve the effects you’re looking for.\n\n* Reminding yourself that you’re not physically addicted to cannabis—that you have control over your consumption patterns. \n\n### Tips for Successfully Completing a Cannabis Tolerance Cleanse\n\nLuckily, [cannabis is not as addictive as its categorization as a Schedule 1 drug might lead you to believe](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59c298a24f508a4a9adead74/can-you-be-addicted-to-marijuana). The withdrawal symptoms associated with cannabis are not nearly as intense as they are with alcohol or hard drugs like heroin, methamphetamines or cocaine. So, a cannabis cleanse may not be as impossible as you imagine. \n\nRELATED: [CAN YOU BE ADDICTED TO MARIJUANA?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59c298a24f508a4a9adead74/can-you-be-addicted-to-marijuana) \n\n### Tips for Successfully Completing a Marijuana Cleanse \n\n* Cut consumption down in the days leading up to the cleanse start date. This can help diminish the shock to your system that going cold turkey can sometimes bring. \n\n* Try to time it so you are out of cannabis product by the time your cleanse starts. Making it more inconvenient to break your commitment can help you succeed. \n\n* Put away all marijuana accessories somewhere you won’t see them on a regular basis—out of sight, out of mind.\n\n* Expect some mild side effects at the beginning of your cleanse, like trouble sleeping or loss of appetite. \n\n* Eat a healthy diet, stay hydrated and exercise. Nourishing your body with wholesome foods and an appropriate amount of water go a long way in making you feel good—plus, exercise is a natural stress reliever. Maintaining healthy habits during your cleanse will help you feel better and more motivated to stay committed to your goals.  \n\n* Substitute your consumption with another activity. This is especially helpful if you take cannabis on a daily regular schedule. During the times you would be most likely to consume, go for a walk, take a shower, enjoy a decaffeinated tea or curl up with a good book. \n\n* Go slow when your cleanse is over. Remember: your cannabis tolerance goes away as quickly as it comes. For the first few days following your cleanse, consume half of your regular dose or start with a low-THC strain. \n\nIf you decide to try a cannabis cleanse in the new year, we’d love to hear about your experience and whether you felt any positive effects from taking a marijuana break. \n\nPhoto Credit: [Brooke Lark](https://unsplash.com/@brookelark) \n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.36986301369863,"src":"/static/88a71f717101d4c677589c4f7ec562a5/14b42/bf6f9fbb6e4961a44431536265200857.jpg","srcSet":"/static/88a71f717101d4c677589c4f7ec562a5/f836f/bf6f9fbb6e4961a44431536265200857.jpg 200w,\n/static/88a71f717101d4c677589c4f7ec562a5/2244e/bf6f9fbb6e4961a44431536265200857.jpg 400w,\n/static/88a71f717101d4c677589c4f7ec562a5/14b42/bf6f9fbb6e4961a44431536265200857.jpg 800w,\n/static/88a71f717101d4c677589c4f7ec562a5/47498/bf6f9fbb6e4961a44431536265200857.jpg 1200w,\n/static/88a71f717101d4c677589c4f7ec562a5/0e329/bf6f9fbb6e4961a44431536265200857.jpg 1600w,\n/static/88a71f717101d4c677589c4f7ec562a5/0110e/bf6f9fbb6e4961a44431536265200857.jpg 3596w","srcWebp":"/static/88a71f717101d4c677589c4f7ec562a5/58556/bf6f9fbb6e4961a44431536265200857.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/88a71f717101d4c677589c4f7ec562a5/61e93/bf6f9fbb6e4961a44431536265200857.webp 200w,\n/static/88a71f717101d4c677589c4f7ec562a5/1f5c5/bf6f9fbb6e4961a44431536265200857.webp 400w,\n/static/88a71f717101d4c677589c4f7ec562a5/58556/bf6f9fbb6e4961a44431536265200857.webp 800w,\n/static/88a71f717101d4c677589c4f7ec562a5/99238/bf6f9fbb6e4961a44431536265200857.webp 1200w,\n/static/88a71f717101d4c677589c4f7ec562a5/7c22d/bf6f9fbb6e4961a44431536265200857.webp 1600w,\n/static/88a71f717101d4c677589c4f7ec562a5/32c4b/bf6f9fbb6e4961a44431536265200857.webp 3596w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2273-markdown","title":"Top Ten Health Benefits of Laughter","slug":"top-ten-health-benefits-of-laughter","content":"One of the most well known side effects of using cannabis is experiencing bouts of endless giggles. While some may perceive the giggles as pure silliness, it turns out that laughing is not only fun—it’s great for our health too. [Dr. Lee Berk](http://www.dr-lee-berk.com/index.html) has spent three decades studying how laughter affects the body and mind, and he has discovered a myriad of both short and long-term health benefits.  He considers regular laughter a healthy lifestyle activity right along with a good night’s sleep, healthy diet and regular exercise.  \n\nAt HelloMD, we believe that laughter truly is the best medicine. It’s one of the reasons we decided to host [Laughter Haven: An Evening of Cannabis and Comedy](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59c1930593afe713363117a3/hellomds-laughter-haven-an-evening-of-cannabis-and-comedy) on October 5th in San Francisco. Come and join us with newly minted Netflix star Mike Winfield and top cannabis brands.\n\n`embed: https://www.instagram.com/p/BZPQgYiAQ3D/`\n\nLaughing can relax your whole body and mind, create social connections and foster uplifting feelings that require no explanation. While many people find inspiration for laughter from a funny movie or comedy show, some explore the path of [Laughter Yoga](https://laughteryoga.org/), which offers guided techniques to encourage more laughter in your life with the goal to build and grow happiness, health and peace for yourself and those around you.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Reduce Stress and Increase Happiness\n\n[According to Berk](http://time.com/3592134/laughing-health-benefits/), our mind, hormone system and immune system are in constant communication, which means our mood and mindset have a real impact on our ability to fight off disease.  In their 2009 [research study](https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/04/090417084115.htm) at Loma Linda University, researchers Dr. Lee Berk and Dr. Stanley Tan found significant health benefits that stem from laughter, including lower stress levels, lower inflammatory response and increased “good” cholesterol levels, all of which point to increased cardiovascular health and immune system response. \n\nRELATED: [HELLOMD’S LAUGHTER HAVEN: AN EVENING OF CANNABIS & COMEDY](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59c1930593afe713363117a3/hellomds-laughter-haven-an-evening-of-cannabis-and-comedy)\n\n### Top Ten Health Benefits of Laughter\n\n**1. Lowers blood pressure**  \n\nLaughing gets our blood pumping, which improves blood flow and works the cardiovascular muscles, reducing the risk of stroke and heart attack.\n\n**2. Reduces stress** \n\nDr. Berk found laughter shuts down the release of stress hormone cortisol and triggers the release of feel-good chemical dopamine. The contraction and release of muscles during laughter also soothes tension and helps your body relax and de-stress.  \n\n**3. Boosts the immune system**  \n\nExperiencing lower levels of stress and anxiety naturally boosts our immune system by taking us out of the fight-or-flight response and activating the parasympathetic nervous system.  Laughter also [boosts our T-cell levels](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2686627/), special immune system cells that help fight illness.  \n\n**4. Relieves pain**  \n\nLaughter releases endorphins, our body’s natural painkillers, easing chronic pain while lowering stress and anxiety.  Endorphins can also be released by other fun activities like cardiovascular exercise, listening to music, eating chocolate and having sex!\n\n**5. Stimulates organs and oxygenates brain**  \n\nWhen we laugh, we expand and contract our ab muscles (toned abs are another side bonus!) and stimulate our heart and lungs. With every snort and guffaw, our deep breaths are sending extra oxygen to our brain, muscles and organs.  The extra stimulation of blood and oxygen circulation helps aid muscle relaxation and eases stress. \n\n**6. Induces a meditative brain state**  \n\nLaughter induces gamma brain wave frequencies, the fastest frequency, usually seen among experienced meditators and associated with “feelings of blessings” among monks. Berk says these gamma waves bolster recall and memory by improving the ‘synchronization’ of your neuronal activity.\n\n**7. Improves your mood**  \n\nIncreasing positive thoughts and decreasing stress helps fight depression and anxiety, resulting in happy vibes and good moods.  \n\n**8. Enhances overall well-being**  \n\nHaving a positive outlook increases overall health and makes it easier to deal with difficult challenges and situations.  Basically laughter creates a positive, upward spiral to health.  \n\n**9. Creates social connection and joy in life**  \n\nNeed we say more?\n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.  \n\nPhoto credit: [Flickr](https://www.flickr.com/photos/cascadelight/33490507856/in/photolist-T2rBcf-mJUgDx-KRZMB-3bnN1e-5YBqeM-4y2GhX-aJLmPP-4KAbbq-gapQdP-bZVU4Y-WuXvnU-fBPc1N-51Q7Dj-7NZwDt-eauNcx-duNACP-4urGHB-51st3g-f9hVs2-rPFerg-9m9TUH-o47Eo8-yBt3zd-4y75A3-eeheUj-6wiuin-4GoXxu-dxdTJP-6h1Pro-8ewiuG-cPo43b-5h7WLW-7TtjTj-4KBYeG-nP7ToW-2VnX3W-6UgpuS-fjvnAT-oqddRS-8qdpgE-X5eFQL-Dt3pH-Uu45uy-ia3wHd-98EiCV-e2X3Ph-bkMv5s-r73BVd-8Jr4Xs-f4GrLG)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/18723d25d6d4c976eedca8d0b5336c7c/14b42/0cf0f6bb671ad11dc18e91417ba3e00e.jpg","srcSet":"/static/18723d25d6d4c976eedca8d0b5336c7c/f836f/0cf0f6bb671ad11dc18e91417ba3e00e.jpg 200w,\n/static/18723d25d6d4c976eedca8d0b5336c7c/2244e/0cf0f6bb671ad11dc18e91417ba3e00e.jpg 400w,\n/static/18723d25d6d4c976eedca8d0b5336c7c/14b42/0cf0f6bb671ad11dc18e91417ba3e00e.jpg 800w,\n/static/18723d25d6d4c976eedca8d0b5336c7c/10d63/0cf0f6bb671ad11dc18e91417ba3e00e.jpg 1080w","srcWebp":"/static/18723d25d6d4c976eedca8d0b5336c7c/58556/0cf0f6bb671ad11dc18e91417ba3e00e.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/18723d25d6d4c976eedca8d0b5336c7c/61e93/0cf0f6bb671ad11dc18e91417ba3e00e.webp 200w,\n/static/18723d25d6d4c976eedca8d0b5336c7c/1f5c5/0cf0f6bb671ad11dc18e91417ba3e00e.webp 400w,\n/static/18723d25d6d4c976eedca8d0b5336c7c/58556/0cf0f6bb671ad11dc18e91417ba3e00e.webp 800w,\n/static/18723d25d6d4c976eedca8d0b5336c7c/54d25/0cf0f6bb671ad11dc18e91417ba3e00e.webp 1080w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":48,"numPages":10,"currentPage":5,"id":5167,"name":"Culture & Lifestyle","slug":"culture-and-lifestyle","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}