{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/culture-and-lifestyle/7","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_2284-markdown","title":"What Is 420 & Where Did It Come From?","slug":"what-is-420-and-where-did-it-come-from","content":"Rejoice. The year’s most anticipated holiday is here. April 20, also known as 420, is a great time to celebrate the recent victories in cannabis legalization both in the United States as well as around the world. Cannasseurs celebrate 420, a day that’s as synonymous with cannabis as the image of the iconic seven-pointed leaf. It’s a day we can appreciate in so many ways; 420 can be spent hanging out with our closest friends, medicating in pride and peace of mind with legal marijuana (in territories where its legal), or even attending an anti-prohibition [Snoop Dogg](http://theknow.denverpost.com/2016/02/16/snoop-dogg-kevin-gates-set-420-show-fiddlers-green/113725/) concert.\r\n\r\nBut, what is 420, and how did it come to be?\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\nWell, 420 is said to have been police code, which means those kids are up to no good behind the high school. That said, my sister’s friend, who knows a chemist, says there are 420 compounds in the cannabis plant. I can’t argue with a chemist. Yet, HelloMD’s own Chris B. says that he knows the real origin story of 420. He attended San Rafael High School, the birthplace of 420, in Marin County, CA.\r\n\r\n### The Origin of 420 at San Rafael High School\r\n\r\nThe phrase 420 came to be back in 1971, in the small town of San Rafael, across the bay from San Francisco. It was when a few high school boys needed a secret code word for cannabis. This group of friends referred to themselves as The Waldos, and they spent their afternoons hanging out by a wall outside San Rafael High. One summer, a friend told the Waldos about several coast guards who grew a cannabis field up north, at Point Reyes Station. \r\n\r\n![420 got its start in 1971](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58f169da36ea3a2293d1ff74/embedded_images/58f169dd36ea3a2293d1ff75/Screen_Shot_2017-04-14_at_5.25.06_PM.png)\r\nThe term 420 as code for marijuana came to be in the early ’70s.\r\n \r\nFearing they would be discovered, the marijuana growers had abandoned the field. A map was produced, and the Waldos picked a time to start their treasure hunt. The most convenient hour of the day for everyone involved was at 4:20 pm. So, they agreed to would outside by the statue of Louis Pasteur at that time.\r\nThus, 420-Louie, the first evolution of the phrase, was born. The phrase was quickly streamlined to 420, and San Rafael High soon buzzed with the new secret code. The Waldos, in a simple effort to conceal a marijuana patch, set off a viral event that would soon span the entire globe.\r\n\r\n### The Grateful Dead & 420\r\n\r\nIn search of the tastiest licks and crunchiest jams, The Grateful Dead moved across the San Francisco Bay just as the Waldos’ slogan was gathering steam in the early ’70s. Soon, a father’s and brother’s business connections, real estate and band management respectively, brought the band within earshot of the buzzword 420. The term rapidly became embedded in the band’s culture. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [420 HELLOMD CELEBRATION: OUR STAFF’S FAVORITE PRODUCTS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58efe42d1fc3e70a07f019c8/420-hellomd-celebration-our-staffs-favorite-products)\r\n\r\nIt was then that 420 went viral as the Grateful Dead hopped from city to city, turning a high school’s secret word into a nationally recognized code for all cannabis enthusiasts. The near infinite Dead tours throughout the years (682 shows to be exact) helped ensure the term 420 would see as many new places as possible.\r\n\r\nAll over the USA, 420 took hold, as a generation identifying itself through counterculture, spirituality and love, also identified itself through a love for cannabis. This term spread globally and finally came to rest as the term modern marijuana lovers most closely identify with. \r\n\r\n![420 for cannabis took off with the Grateful Dead](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58f169da36ea3a2293d1ff74/embedded_images/58f169de36ea3a2293d1ff76/Screen_Shot_2017-04-14_at_5.28.06_PM.png)\r\nThe Grateful Dead helped breathe life into the word 420.\r\n\r\n### _420_ The Movie\r\n\r\nLast week, I was lucky enough to speak with [Michel Shane](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michel_Shane), a well-known Hollywood movie producer. He’s currently producing a movie out of this fantastic story spurred on by thedesire to tell a modern legend. Considering the origin story for 420 contains treasure maps, rock bands and the fight against prohibition, I can’t find fault with his plan. The release date and name of the movie have yet to be announced, but I’m looking forward to the Waldos and 420 making it to the big screen.\r\n\r\nSociety’s growing acceptance of cannabis, both medical and recreational, has many optimistic about the future of this cherished plant. Its true beauty lies in the way that each can enjoy their cannabis on their own terms. Whether your migraines are mitigated, your pain defeated, or you just want a good giggle, cannabis assists with so many different areas of our lives. Here’s to 420—the day we get to remember the cannabis plant and all the relief and joy it brings us. \r\n\r\nHappy 420, everybody!\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/56201c206430320006bb0000/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":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/495d922a337357e051490e1e5910e379/14b42/6b3e32c4b9ffe6582f80796d4ba9baa0.jpg","srcSet":"/static/495d922a337357e051490e1e5910e379/f836f/6b3e32c4b9ffe6582f80796d4ba9baa0.jpg 200w,\n/static/495d922a337357e051490e1e5910e379/2244e/6b3e32c4b9ffe6582f80796d4ba9baa0.jpg 400w,\n/static/495d922a337357e051490e1e5910e379/14b42/6b3e32c4b9ffe6582f80796d4ba9baa0.jpg 800w,\n/static/495d922a337357e051490e1e5910e379/47498/6b3e32c4b9ffe6582f80796d4ba9baa0.jpg 1200w,\n/static/495d922a337357e051490e1e5910e379/54ac5/6b3e32c4b9ffe6582f80796d4ba9baa0.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/495d922a337357e051490e1e5910e379/58556/6b3e32c4b9ffe6582f80796d4ba9baa0.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/495d922a337357e051490e1e5910e379/61e93/6b3e32c4b9ffe6582f80796d4ba9baa0.webp 200w,\n/static/495d922a337357e051490e1e5910e379/1f5c5/6b3e32c4b9ffe6582f80796d4ba9baa0.webp 400w,\n/static/495d922a337357e051490e1e5910e379/58556/6b3e32c4b9ffe6582f80796d4ba9baa0.webp 800w,\n/static/495d922a337357e051490e1e5910e379/99238/6b3e32c4b9ffe6582f80796d4ba9baa0.webp 1200w,\n/static/495d922a337357e051490e1e5910e379/5e0b8/6b3e32c4b9ffe6582f80796d4ba9baa0.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2206-markdown","title":"On 420 Laugh More with Laugh.ly","slug":"on-420-laugh-more-with-laughly","content":"### Seriously...Laugh More\n\nIf you have never heard about [Laugh.ly](http://laughly.com/auth.html#/welcome?_k=tj3dbn), it's time to catch up with some laughter for this 4.20. Called “the pandora of stand-up comedy” by TechCrunch, Laugh.ly launched at the end of last summer with a repertoire of 400 different comedians and over 20,000 individual comedy tracks. The app features comedians ranging from your well-known favorites, like Kevin Hart, Louis CK, and Aziz Ansari, to up and coming acts who are just getting started in the world of stand up comedy. \n\nYou can listen to all of Laugh.ly’s tracks for free, including radio stations, genres and live comedy events that are featured on the app (and website). You can also choose from Laugh.ly’s wide range of stations, including “The Great American Joke” and “Workout Special”, or you can choose from their extensive list of genres. Laugh.ly also allows you to create your own playlists and includes social features, much like Spotify. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nIt’s free to spend you day giggling at the latest jokes by great comedic acts on Laugh.ly, though you can upgrade to a premium subscription if you want to avoid advertisements. We recently met the Founder of Laugh.ly, Dave Scott, at Launch Festival in San Francisco [where he gave an awesome pitch on the main stage](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IHvejxU-Yz8). \n\nDave says, “Laugh.ly was created to give comedy fans the same access to comedy as music fans get through services like Pandora or Spotify. Sometimes, you want to hear some great comedy, but don't want to leave the house. Well Laugh.ly solves that by providing the largest library of stand-up comedy in the world.”\n\n[![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58f1620736ea3a206ad1ff68/embedded_images/58f1620a36ea3a206ad1ff69/Screen_Shot_2017-04-14_at_4.52.40_PM.png)](http://laughly.com/auth.html#/welcome?_k=bymlwk)\nAn image from Laugh.ly's trending feed.\n \n### It’s Good for Your Health\n\nLaughter is a beautiful thing, and it can actually be good for you health too. Laughter does wonders for both your physical and mental health in many different ways. Laughing increases relaxation by releasing physical tension, easing muscles, and reducing anxiety and stress. \n\nLaughing can also help boost your immune system by decreasing stress hormones and increasing the amount of antibodies produced, which can help fight infection. It can also hep stimulate many of your organs because laughing brings in an increased amount of air. Laughing can help improve the functioning of blood vessels and increase blood flow, which can benefit cardiovascular function. \n\nRELATED: [10 ACTIVITIES TO DO WHILE SMOKING MARIJUANA](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58dd99e573edf02ffb523706/10-fun-activities-to-try-when-smoking-marijuana)\n\nPossibly one of the most well known effects of laughter is its connection with the release of endorphins in the body that can help increase happiness and even reduce physical pain. Laughter can also help change your perspective, making stressful events seem less threatening and providing you with a more realistic view of a situation. Laugh.ly can stimulate laughter in your life and provide you with many of the amazing health benefits that laughter can bring to you. \n\n### The Best: Cannabis & Laughter\n\nCannabis and laughter also go hand in hand. Cannabis can help you laugh even harder with the great comedians featured on Laugh.ly. Cannabis can also aid in stress reduction and allows you to be more in the moment. A [study from the journal Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17115869) has found that cannabis increases the blood flow to the left temporal lobe and the right frontal cortex, as well a slight increase to the cerebellum. The areas where blood flow is stimulated by cannabis are also areas of the brain that are related to laughter. Laughter is good for the mind, body, and soul. Cannabis can help you become even more relaxed and more free to giggle uncontrollably to some great stand-up comedy. \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. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAPABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFgABAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAAD/8QAFQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQD/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAATOyxFEaL//EABoQAQACAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIBAwAREiL/2gAIAQEAAQUCg+q6ycBINGlnOq5URP8A/8QAFBEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEP/aAAgBAwEBPwE//8QAFhEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABFB/9oACAECAQE/AdV//8QAGxAAAgIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREAAiExQSL/2gAIAQEABj8CBA1yXYBNtRXTlsdRgSM8z//EABsQAQACAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAESExQWGR/9oACAEBAAE/IbQ1Zqdx0/MMHkOxzU5G6UOtxWANrEpaj2f/2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEHf/AP/EABYRAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERAP/aAAgBAwEBPxC00Hf/xAAWEQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABACH/2gAIAQIBAT8QBmb/xAAcEAEAAgMAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAABESEAMUFRcYH/2gAIAQEAAT8QOYKyHmCcdgVGEmJ8vL5EQdNThAoiUIaS2XrmbY9GIkx5twxgl2ZdrfvP/9k=","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/9486110ad845725cd79cf4c7dde66b72/14b42/593e7d643d2997665f37141af9364cb3.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9486110ad845725cd79cf4c7dde66b72/f836f/593e7d643d2997665f37141af9364cb3.jpg 200w,\n/static/9486110ad845725cd79cf4c7dde66b72/2244e/593e7d643d2997665f37141af9364cb3.jpg 400w,\n/static/9486110ad845725cd79cf4c7dde66b72/14b42/593e7d643d2997665f37141af9364cb3.jpg 800w,\n/static/9486110ad845725cd79cf4c7dde66b72/47498/593e7d643d2997665f37141af9364cb3.jpg 1200w,\n/static/9486110ad845725cd79cf4c7dde66b72/54ac5/593e7d643d2997665f37141af9364cb3.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/9486110ad845725cd79cf4c7dde66b72/58556/593e7d643d2997665f37141af9364cb3.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/9486110ad845725cd79cf4c7dde66b72/61e93/593e7d643d2997665f37141af9364cb3.webp 200w,\n/static/9486110ad845725cd79cf4c7dde66b72/1f5c5/593e7d643d2997665f37141af9364cb3.webp 400w,\n/static/9486110ad845725cd79cf4c7dde66b72/58556/593e7d643d2997665f37141af9364cb3.webp 800w,\n/static/9486110ad845725cd79cf4c7dde66b72/99238/593e7d643d2997665f37141af9364cb3.webp 1200w,\n/static/9486110ad845725cd79cf4c7dde66b72/5e0b8/593e7d643d2997665f37141af9364cb3.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2263-markdown","title":"10 Fun Activities to Try When Smoking Marijuana","slug":"10-fun-activities-to-try-when-smoking-marijuana","content":"Higher amounts of THC put the modern cannabist at greater risk of falling into a state of marijuana-induced couch-lock. Some of my favorite experiences have happened after smoking marijuana, and I know that can be the case for you too. If the compulsion to go full-on couch potato is too real for you, check out one of the following fun activities to do before or after consuming your favorite type of cannabis.\r\n\r\n### 1. Paint Alongside Bob Ross\r\n\r\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCsCatvigtw` \r\n\r\nGet out your paints and lay down some happy trees with Bob Ross. Please, don’t dis it until you try it. Actually, painting along with the late, legendary Bob Ross is a like a meditation in and of itself. Reminding you that “anyone can paint, all you need is a dream in your heart and a little bit of practice.\" R.I.P. Bob Ross.\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### 2. Cook Delicious Food\r\n\r\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=unAOVy92a_8` \r\n\r\nI’m not sure who can say no to good eats after consuming cannabis. When the cravings for food hit, don’t just reach for the nacho cheese Doritos or hit the speed dial (I know it’s the pizza guy—your secret is safe with me). Instead, whip up a tasty stir-fry, or, if you’re more the Gordon Ramsey type, a savory gnocchi with peas and Parmesan to stave off the munchies.\r\n\r\n### 3. Virtual Reality With Cardboard\r\n\r\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9GOyibr5Jn8` \r\n\r\nVirtual Reality, the latest evolution of visual media, is an awe-inspiring technology. Whether you’ve already experienced VR in some form or are completely new to the tech, it’s undeniably entertaining. The headsets are getting cheaper and cheaper, while cellphone setups like [Google’s Cardboard](https://store.google.com/product/google_cardboard?utm_source=en-ha-na-us-sem&utm_medium=desktop&utm_content=plas&utm_campaign=Cardboard&gl=us&gclid=CKmvrvzh9dICFZNafgodU0gMhw&sku=_google_cardboard_single) are just $15. I can think of no better way to peek into the future, than with your favorite strain.\r\n\r\n### 4. Listen to Other People’s Voicemail\r\n\r\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1MrPNrZgWGs` \r\n\r\nI’m not suggesting you do this in a creepy way. Watch this video for some laughs. A truck driver leaves a voicemail on a coworker’s phone when he sees an accident involving four old ladies, an angry driver and an umbrella. I really don’t want to give too much away on this one. Try not to laugh out loud, I dare you. \r\n\r\n### 5. Visit Your Local Planetarium or Observatory\r\n\r\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OUcv3ORj2jc` \r\n\r\nIf you’re more of Carl Sagan’s sort of cannasseur, then check out your local science museums and colleges for observatory hours or planetarium expositions. Learning about the vast expanses of space is one thing, but taking a look at it first hand is a humbling experience. Throw cannabis into the mix and allow your mind to expand right alongside the universe. In an increasingly mad and [dangerous world](http://420tribune.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/marijuana-quote-carl-sagan1-e1303944450131.jpg), I’m sure Carl Sagan would approve. \r\n\r\n### 6. Play With a Pet\r\n\r\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M6_OZb9m4K4` \r\n\r\nWhat could be better than spending time with an adorable animal that loves you with an unconditional fever? Connecting with your best friend—be it cat, dog, squirrel or other—while consuming cannabis is a great way to pass the time and engage with your fur baby in a meaningful way. Cannabis is already known for increasing feelings of empathy and connection. Combine this with a loving mass of furry wiggles, and you’re sure to have a great time.\r\n\r\n### 7. Check Out Some Amazing Live Music\r\n\r\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ASzbEFotwYc`\r\n\r\nHit up your local venues or plan to go to a concert ahead of time. Cannabis affects the way we hear and perceive music in numerous ways. It can help you hear the beauty of each melody and allow you to grasp a more intense feeling of the arrangement as a whole. Rock out to your favorite artist or find a new local band that really gets you moving. Even better, check out a totally fresh genre while consuming your cannabis and connect to new music in a novel way.\r\n\r\n### 8. Try a New Activity\r\n\r\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f92yfPFl9NY`\r\n\r\nI’m not suggesting you take on motocross, but if you’ve been afraid of shooting a basketball or never could get around to Zorbing, cannabis could actually increase your coordination (not for everyone though). Some strains do affect your coordination adversely, so it’s important to pick the right one. A smooth sativa, like Jack Herer, will give you a motivational boost to get out there and try something new, without being too hard on yourself or self-conscious about trying a brand new activity. \r\n\r\n### 9. Get a Thai Massage\r\n\r\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kNVb3XVcxgs`\r\n\r\nRelieve stress on all fronts by using cannabis in combination with a relaxing Thai massage, where they do the stretching for you. It's kind of like the lazy person's yoga. Cannabis has already been shown to relieve muscle tension and reduce inflammation. Add this to an hour with a trained massage therapist and watch as all of your troubles and worries melt away into oblivion. This should almost be mandatory for any serious cannasseur. I know you have time Thursday afternoons; just schedule it in. Thank me later.\r\n\r\n### 10. Get Yourself Some Live Comedy\r\n\r\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xTbrM3ubUDU`\r\n\r\nCheck out your local venues for any comedy shows in the area. It’s hard to beat seeing your favorite act paired with your favorite strain. You can get a lot of mileage out of Netflix specials, though nothing compares to the raw laughs of a live show. Fun almost no matter the occasion. \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 100% online, private and efficient. \r\n\r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/f2ac9d2d3249e3c4e1840702add727d7/14b42/87a1c9349db9d17cbf6cb6894006dccb.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f2ac9d2d3249e3c4e1840702add727d7/f836f/87a1c9349db9d17cbf6cb6894006dccb.jpg 200w,\n/static/f2ac9d2d3249e3c4e1840702add727d7/2244e/87a1c9349db9d17cbf6cb6894006dccb.jpg 400w,\n/static/f2ac9d2d3249e3c4e1840702add727d7/14b42/87a1c9349db9d17cbf6cb6894006dccb.jpg 800w,\n/static/f2ac9d2d3249e3c4e1840702add727d7/47498/87a1c9349db9d17cbf6cb6894006dccb.jpg 1200w,\n/static/f2ac9d2d3249e3c4e1840702add727d7/54ac5/87a1c9349db9d17cbf6cb6894006dccb.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/f2ac9d2d3249e3c4e1840702add727d7/58556/87a1c9349db9d17cbf6cb6894006dccb.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f2ac9d2d3249e3c4e1840702add727d7/61e93/87a1c9349db9d17cbf6cb6894006dccb.webp 200w,\n/static/f2ac9d2d3249e3c4e1840702add727d7/1f5c5/87a1c9349db9d17cbf6cb6894006dccb.webp 400w,\n/static/f2ac9d2d3249e3c4e1840702add727d7/58556/87a1c9349db9d17cbf6cb6894006dccb.webp 800w,\n/static/f2ac9d2d3249e3c4e1840702add727d7/99238/87a1c9349db9d17cbf6cb6894006dccb.webp 1200w,\n/static/f2ac9d2d3249e3c4e1840702add727d7/5e0b8/87a1c9349db9d17cbf6cb6894006dccb.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2373-markdown","title":"Top 10 Videos to Watch While Stoned","slug":"top-10-videos-to-watch-while-stoned","content":"### Lighten Up and Laugh... A LOT\n\nWe give you the top 10 videos to watch while you're stoned. You will laugh until you cry or cry until you laugh. Let's face it, consuming marijuana can make life seem pretty darn funny.  It's pretty simple; vaporizing, taking an edible, and smoking are great ways to help you wind down from your day and put a smile on your face. Note: These are also good for middle of the day office break!\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### 1. Substitute Teacher - Key and Peele\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dd7FixvoKBw` \n\nKey and Peele are two of the kings of sketch comedy and here they demonstrate their skills perfectly. An overly strict and easily riled substitute teacher has a funny way of pronouncing names, that makes him think that all of the students are trying to embarrass him when they correct him. \n\n### 2. Close Encounter - SNL\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PfPdYYsEfAE` \n\nKate McKinnon is a powerhouse on Saturday Night Live and in this video she is at her best. A set of people have been abducted by aliens and, after being returned, are being debriefed by the government, where a description of very different alien encounters comes to light. \n\nRELATED: TOP [10 MARIJUANA INSPIRED INSTAGRAM ACCOUNTS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58b4b02310b47e000bb27b62/the-top-10-marijuana-inspired-instagram-accounts)\n\n### 3. Dogs Who Fail at Being Dogs\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMhw5MFYU0s` \n\nWhen you just need a video to make you laugh, but you don’t want to pay attention too much, this video is the perfect. It is filled with dogs being their silly, lovable selves!\n\n### 4. Haunted Elevator - SNL\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rS00xWnqwvI` \n\nTom Hanks can be funny. This video came from SNL’s halloween themed episode which features David S. Pumpkins, an odd singing and dancing character in a haunted tower amusement ride. David S. Pumpkins has already become a cult character, and after watching this video, you’ll know why. \n\n### 5. Funny Goats Screaming Like Humans\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nlYlNF30bVg`\n\nDid you know goats scream like humans? This video compiles various videos of goats yelling like grown people, and some like babies, as they often make the people filming them laugh like crazy.  \n\n### 6. Animals in Mirrors Hilarious Reactions\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GaMylwohL14`\n\nSome very smart person decided to to put up a mirror in the middle of a jungle and set up a camera. What is caught on camera is an array of interesting and often funny reactions that the animals produce, ranging from charging the mirror like a rival animal to checking out their reflection to scaring themselves. \n\n### 7. Boogie Storm Makes Simon’s Dream Come True\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ax7tmaYObIQ`\n\nThis video has to be seen to be believed, but it features one of the most interesting, impressive, entertaining, and hilarious auditions for Britain’s Got Talent out there. I don’t want to spoil the video, however, so you can get the full effect when you watch it yourself. \n\n### 7. Cacao - Portlandia\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ldQGPwuHhkM`\n\nPortlandia...oh, how funny you can be. In this short, a same sex couple embarking on more adventurous sexual practices adopts a 'safe word' and opts for the 'Cacao'. This had the entire HelloMD staff in tears.\n\n### 8. Is the Chicken Local? - Portlandia\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ErRHJlE4PGI`\n\nLet's roll with Portlandia for awhile and find out how our favorite couple orders an organic chicken named...I don't want to spoil it.\n\n### 9. It’s An Avocado!\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gaoQ5mMRDhg`\n\nThis video may only be 7 seconds, but it is absolutely hilarious. It features a young boy who received a present he is not so happy about, but which he accepts with a smile on his face. It is very easy to watch this video again and again and continue to laugh because it is such an odd, but fantastic video. \n\n### 10. I Ate My Kids Halloween Candy - Jimmy Kimmel\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_YQpbzQ6gzs`\n\nOne of Jimmy Kimmel’s now famous jokes involves him requesting that parents inform their kids that they ate all of their halloween candy while filming their reactions. The kids reactions garner comedy gold in this compilation of the best videos that were submitted back to Kimmel. \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. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.342281879194631,"src":"/static/ba073c7b15c8fbe1ddae381794a1957e/14b42/9d3071a131d23b81a083f702b332e30c.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ba073c7b15c8fbe1ddae381794a1957e/f836f/9d3071a131d23b81a083f702b332e30c.jpg 200w,\n/static/ba073c7b15c8fbe1ddae381794a1957e/2244e/9d3071a131d23b81a083f702b332e30c.jpg 400w,\n/static/ba073c7b15c8fbe1ddae381794a1957e/14b42/9d3071a131d23b81a083f702b332e30c.jpg 800w,\n/static/ba073c7b15c8fbe1ddae381794a1957e/47498/9d3071a131d23b81a083f702b332e30c.jpg 1200w,\n/static/ba073c7b15c8fbe1ddae381794a1957e/3a12e/9d3071a131d23b81a083f702b332e30c.jpg 1375w","srcWebp":"/static/ba073c7b15c8fbe1ddae381794a1957e/58556/9d3071a131d23b81a083f702b332e30c.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ba073c7b15c8fbe1ddae381794a1957e/61e93/9d3071a131d23b81a083f702b332e30c.webp 200w,\n/static/ba073c7b15c8fbe1ddae381794a1957e/1f5c5/9d3071a131d23b81a083f702b332e30c.webp 400w,\n/static/ba073c7b15c8fbe1ddae381794a1957e/58556/9d3071a131d23b81a083f702b332e30c.webp 800w,\n/static/ba073c7b15c8fbe1ddae381794a1957e/99238/9d3071a131d23b81a083f702b332e30c.webp 1200w,\n/static/ba073c7b15c8fbe1ddae381794a1957e/b5697/9d3071a131d23b81a083f702b332e30c.webp 1375w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2264-markdown","title":"Marijuana Drug Testing: What You Need to Know","slug":"marijuana-drug-testing-what-you-need-to-know","content":"### Who Drug Tests and Why\r\n\r\nThe idea of submitting to a drug test is both uncomfortable and scary for many cannabis consumers, whether they use marijuana medically or recreationally. There is still a lot of grey area about how drug testing should be handled in states that allow for medical or recreational marijuana, but ultimately it is up to your employer as to whether or not they find it important to drug test and what they deem as an acceptable amount of cannabis in your system. \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\nAccording to a 2006 survey from the Society for Human Resource Management, 84% of private employers drug test potential applicants before hiring, 39% of companies randomly drug test, 73% of employers conduct drug testing when given probable cause, and 58% drug test after work accidents. Each employer can choose to abide by state or federal law when it comes to cannabis, but many companies that do business across state lines follow federal guidelines. This means the company most often will ban their employees from using cannabis, even medically, which puts many people in a difficult situation between taking medication and losing their jobs. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [DO CANNABIS TOPICALS PASS THE DRUG TEST](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/do-cannabis-topicals-pass-the-drug-test)\r\n\r\n### How Long Does Cannabis Stay in Your System?\r\n\r\nStandard drug tests are far more likely to detect cannabis than more illicit drugs, like cocaine, because of the way it is metabolized by your body. As many people know, cannabis does not dissipate from your system quickly, which can lead to confusion about when the cannabis was consumed. If your employer allows for use of medical marijuana outside of work hours, but does not allow for consumption while on the job, it can be impossible for a test to prove if cannabis was consumed inside or outside of work hours. \r\n\r\nPreviously it was believed that cannabis could stay in your system for 30 days, but it is actually much more variable than that. Ryan Vandrey, a professor of psychiatry at John Hopkins University says, “It is highly variable from person to person and it varies based on the frequency of use and the amount of use. So there is no way of predicting or knowing how long someone would test positive with any kind of certainty.”\r\n\r\nTo complicate matters, there are many different kinds of drug tests. Though a typical drug test by an employer is often conducted using urine, tests can also be conducted using saliva, blood, hair and breath. Hair tests can often detect  cannabis for a far longer time than other tests, up to 90 days after cannabis was consumed. \r\n\r\nWhat drug tests actually test for is not THC, but a THC metabolite called THC-COOH. Most tests do not test for the presence of CBD or metabolites of other cannabinoids. THC-COOH stays in your system far longer than THC itself. A [review of studies](http://www.ndcrc.org/content/marijuana-detection-window-determining-length-time-cannabinoids-will-remain-detectable-urine) published in the Drug Court Practitioner Fact Sheet found that in the case of urine tests, THC-COOH is rarely detected 30 days after consumption. [Another study](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2550702) from the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment in 1984, however, found that some cannabis had been found in the system of participants up to 40 days after consumption. \r\n\r\nThe factors that make THC metabolites detectable in your system longer than usual are chronic usage, dehydration, and body composition. The metabolites store well in fat, meaning that people with lower body fat often rid themselves of cannabis within their system faster. Drinking lots of water, eating a balanced diet with low levels of fat, and exercise can all help boost your metabolism which helps rid your body of the metabolites more quickly, though they are not a guarantee. \r\n\r\nIf you only consume CBD products, you will most likely not test positive for cannabis, unless you consume very large amounts of CBD products with trace quantities THC, which could lead to a positive test result. It is also possible for second hand smoke to trigger a positive test result, though it is very rare and requires very close contact while another person is smoking.  \r\n\r\n### What’s the Future of Drug Testing?\r\n\r\nDrug testing is fairly simple. There is an amount of THC-COOH that can be found in a sample that is deemed acceptable by the company you work for, which is commonly 50ng/ml. If your sample alerts to a higher level than the acceptable amount, then the sample is often retested to confirm the findings. The simple process of drug testing, however, can greatly change the lives of many people who use cannabis as a medication. \r\n\r\nThe main roadblock to eliminating cannabis drug testing as a standard is the federal status of the substance. Many people argue that cannabis consumption for medicinal purposes should be protected under the American’s with Disabilities Act, which says that reasonable accommodations should be made for qualified candidates. \r\n\r\nIn theory, more companies should be tolerant of cannabis use if their employees are registered medical marijuana users, but the whole issue is still a large grey area. Companies are stuck between abiding by federal government law by saying cannabis is an illegal substance and risking repercussions for not providing their employees with the ability to use a viable medication. Sadly, until the federal government changes the way it views cannabis, it will be hard for medical marijuana patients to gain protection during company sanctioned drug tests. It is important that patients stay informed about their employers drug testing policy so they can be prepared for a possible drug test and the potential implications. \r\n\r\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. \r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAPABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAAAAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQFAgP/xAAVAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACA//aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABR3V5oqFQkv/EABoQAAIDAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAESAgMRBBP/2gAIAQEAAQUCFQwUsRzxxh5NFKxsf//EABgRAQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAAhIR/9oACAEDAQE/AaLjcDs//8QAGBEAAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIDERP/2gAIAQIBAT8BaSjc/8QAHxAAAQALAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECEBESMkFhcZHR/9oACAEBAAY/AulYSROxbBdzP//EAB4QAQACAgEFAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAESExUWFxgaHB/9oACAEBAAE/Ia5d9DntBRKc6jjd/j8mcNnvDkTAVVn/2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEHjP/8QAFxEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERIf/aAAgBAwEBPxBOm3IKSxn/xAAYEQEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhQf/aAAgBAgEBPxCqhzYp2if/xAAdEAEBAAICAwEAAAAAAAAAAAABEQAhMVFBYXGh/9oACAEBAAE/ENwK0ky6j133h2QKF8Txy4gtnaMPuOORAgJbRx+GFFVuOdx2365VyA1b4HP/2Q==","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/6c28dd459ffd9bbe3f32f9a386b267df/14b42/fa5f83887107ac2d897e42748cd41db0.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6c28dd459ffd9bbe3f32f9a386b267df/f836f/fa5f83887107ac2d897e42748cd41db0.jpg 200w,\n/static/6c28dd459ffd9bbe3f32f9a386b267df/2244e/fa5f83887107ac2d897e42748cd41db0.jpg 400w,\n/static/6c28dd459ffd9bbe3f32f9a386b267df/14b42/fa5f83887107ac2d897e42748cd41db0.jpg 800w,\n/static/6c28dd459ffd9bbe3f32f9a386b267df/47498/fa5f83887107ac2d897e42748cd41db0.jpg 1200w,\n/static/6c28dd459ffd9bbe3f32f9a386b267df/54ac5/fa5f83887107ac2d897e42748cd41db0.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/6c28dd459ffd9bbe3f32f9a386b267df/58556/fa5f83887107ac2d897e42748cd41db0.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/6c28dd459ffd9bbe3f32f9a386b267df/61e93/fa5f83887107ac2d897e42748cd41db0.webp 200w,\n/static/6c28dd459ffd9bbe3f32f9a386b267df/1f5c5/fa5f83887107ac2d897e42748cd41db0.webp 400w,\n/static/6c28dd459ffd9bbe3f32f9a386b267df/58556/fa5f83887107ac2d897e42748cd41db0.webp 800w,\n/static/6c28dd459ffd9bbe3f32f9a386b267df/99238/fa5f83887107ac2d897e42748cd41db0.webp 1200w,\n/static/6c28dd459ffd9bbe3f32f9a386b267df/5e0b8/fa5f83887107ac2d897e42748cd41db0.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2357-markdown","title":"The Top 7 Marijuana Inspired TV Shows","slug":"the-top-7-marijuana-inspired-tv-shows","content":"Is marijuana now the new normal? It seems to be the case when we look across the TV landscape from Netflix, to CNN to YouTube, cannabis inspired programming and marijuana pop culture references abound.  If we look in the way-way-back-time-machine you might remember the popular comedic duo Cheech and Chong, which reinforced stoner culture on the big screen, and I dare say, kept the general population in the cannabis closet. Some of that Spicoli-type [Fast Times at Ridgemont High](http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0083929/) imagery may linger, but for the most part a new, more nuanced conversation has emerged. \n\nThe new widespread acceptance of cannabis is the result of a plethora of factors, including what might be called the normalization of marijuana within mainstream media. Here are our top 7 television and web programs, some more educational than others, that are changing the dialogue about cannabis on a daily basis. \n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58bda527f1b0a50011ad58db/embedded_images/58bda529f1b0a50011ad58dc/Screen_Shot_2017-03-06_at_9.59.24_AM.png)\nSanjay Gupta single handedly changed the conversation about medicinal cannabis.\n\n### 1. Weed by Sanjay Gupta\n\n[Weed](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z3IMfIQ_K6U) brought cannabis onto television screens all across the country. The three part docu-series, which was aired on CNN, explored many different topics in the medical marijuana world. The series was created by celebrity doctor, Sanjay Gupta, whose personal opinion on cannabis even changed as he learned more about its wide ranging medical efficacy. Gupta, who apologized for some of his previous statements in which he claimed that marijuana had no medical benefit, created the show to teach people about the importance of medical marijuana. To say the least, the airing of this show was a game changer for the industry.\n\nSanjay Gupta used the same scientific information that changed his mind on medical marijuana to change the conversation on medical marijuana around the country. Gupta’s series featured a range of topics, including detailed scientific information like an active brain scan of someone who had consumed marijuana. Weed was a trailblazing mini-series that educated the national audience on the idea that medical marijuana could be greatly beneficial for a wide range of conditions. If you are interested in educating a non cannabis consumer, this is an excellent place to start.\n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58bda527f1b0a50011ad58db/embedded_images/58bda52bf1b0a50011ad58dd/Screen_Shot_2017-03-06_at_10.01.53_AM.png)\nWeediquette delves into the many cultural aspects surrounding cannabis use.\n\n### 2. Weediquette\n\n[Weediquette](https://www.viceland.com/en_us/show/weediquette-id) started as a web series in 2013 and launched on Viceland in February of 2016. Hosted by Krishna Andavolu, who is originally from Princeton, New Jersey, Weediquette explores cannabis across the country and the world, from Rhode Island weed worshippers to cannabis dealers who are trying to get legal to opioid addicts using cannabisin lieu of their more addictive counter parts. \n\nAndavolu (and try not to have a crush on him) doesn’t shy away from controversial topics like medical marijuana and children or the prosecution of long-term non-violent drug offenses. Weediquette provides an extremely educational view of the world of cannabis that engages people in and outside of the industry with new, interesting topics and ideas. \n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58bda527f1b0a50011ad58db/embedded_images/58bda52df1b0a50011ad58de/Screen_Shot_2017-03-06_at_10.03.54_AM.png)\n'They Guy' delivers pot to every hood in NYC and it's like being a fly on the wall within people's lives.\n\n### 3. High Maintenance \n\nLike Weediquette, [High Maintenance](https://vimeo.com/channels/highmaintenance/videos) started as a web series. The first episodes aired in 2012 on Venmo, then it transitioned on to HBO in 2016. The show, which was created by married couple Katja Blienfield and Ben Sinclair, follows the life of an unnamed Brooklyn pot dealer who remains anonymous throughout the whole series. \n\nThe show focuses on the variety of characters that the dealer delivers marijuana to, who remain largely unnamed as well. The show provides an entertaining look into the lives of people who use cannabis, and breaks down stereotypes about who marijuana consumers are in an extremely entertaining way. The show also approaches non-cannabis related topics that face many people across the country, like gentrification. \n\nRELATED: [TOP TEN MARIJUANA INSPIRED INSTAGRAM ACCOUNTS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58b4b02310b47e000bb27b62/the-top-10-marijuana-inspired-instagram-accounts)\n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58bda527f1b0a50011ad58db/embedded_images/58bda52ff1b0a50011ad58df/Screen_Shot_2017-03-06_at_10.05.22_AM.png)\nBong Apetit explores the intersection of food and cannabis.\n\n### 4. Bong Appetit\n\n[Bong Appetit](https://video.vice.com/en_us/show/bong-appetit-tv) is a web series on vice.com that shows the interconnectedness between food and cannabis. Each episode ranges from 10 to 25 minutes and explore topics ranging from a 91 year old grandmother who makes cannabis infused comfort food to high-end cannabis dining. Bong Appetit combines two of the largest trends sweeping across the country now, food and cannabis. \n\nCurrently, there are two seasons that have featured different foods from cannabis coffee to marijuana sundaes in states all across the country. The show is a great introduction into all of the of the different ways that cannabis can be consumed and how it can be incorporated into everyday life. \n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58bda527f1b0a50011ad58db/embedded_images/58bdaaaabf131200158500a5/Screen_Shot_2017-03-06_at_10.25.02_AM.png)\nMary Louise Parker is the star of the popular TV show Weeds.\n\n### 5. Weeds\n\n[Weeds](http://www.sho.com/weeds) is one of the first shows that brought suburban cannabis use into the mainstream through a mix of comedy and real-life situations.  The show, which ran from 2005 to 2012, was about a mother in a fictional suburb of Los Angeles who turned to selling marijuana to support her family after her husband unexpectedly passed away. Weeds won many different awards for its excellent acting and writing and continuously challenged many different norms related to marijuana. Weeds focused on personal moral codes rather than laws and helped normalize cannabis in pop-culture. \n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58bda527f1b0a50011ad58db/embedded_images/58bdaaacbf131200158500a6/Screen_Shot_2017-03-06_at_10.27.41_AM.png)\nMarijuana Man, it just keeps going and going...\n\n### 6. Marijuana Man\n\n[Marijuana Man](https://www.youtube.com/user/2MarijuanaMan) proclaims itself to be the longest running marijuana show in the world. Running on the internet since 1997, Marijuana Man is a pretty simple show, which features one man in British Columbia who enjoys smoking marijuana in his free time. The show features him smoking a variety of marijuana strains everywhere from in his bedroom to the bathtub and has garnered him 92,268 followers on youtube. Now, Marijuana Man is sponsored to smoke weed and brings a sense of levity and casualty to the fact that he is actually consistently filming himself doing something illegal. Marijuana Man points out the dichotomy of cannabis and its grey area between legality and illegality. \n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58bda527f1b0a50011ad58db/embedded_images/58bdaaaebf131200158500a7/Screen_Shot_2017-03-06_at_10.29.08_AM.png)\nLife in a cube is hard, it may drive you to smoke.\n\n### 7. Workaholics\n\n[Workaholics](http://www.cc.com/shows/workaholics) is a comedy about three tele-marketers, Adam, Blake, and Anders, who work and live together in Rancho Cucamonga, California. The show is about the fresh-out-of-college trio and focuses on the causality and normality of drugs in younger generations. Cannabis is no longer something shocking, rather it is now just as much a part of life as alcohol. The show stars their drug dealer who serves them and other “suburban weed consumers”. \n\nWorkaholics is currently on its 7th and final season, and the three stars and writers of the show say their eccentric, party-animal characters are just amplified versions of their real life selves. Comedy Central, where the show is aired, has let the writers explore many different ideas and topics related to cannabis, allowing them to relate to their viewership through the presence of marijuana.\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/56201c206430320006bb0000/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","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/bbb83d421cf52cd7952a2c3e5dab29e3/14b42/1d519ad722953c50f7a07f9ba485ccc4.jpg","srcSet":"/static/bbb83d421cf52cd7952a2c3e5dab29e3/f836f/1d519ad722953c50f7a07f9ba485ccc4.jpg 200w,\n/static/bbb83d421cf52cd7952a2c3e5dab29e3/2244e/1d519ad722953c50f7a07f9ba485ccc4.jpg 400w,\n/static/bbb83d421cf52cd7952a2c3e5dab29e3/14b42/1d519ad722953c50f7a07f9ba485ccc4.jpg 800w,\n/static/bbb83d421cf52cd7952a2c3e5dab29e3/47498/1d519ad722953c50f7a07f9ba485ccc4.jpg 1200w,\n/static/bbb83d421cf52cd7952a2c3e5dab29e3/54ac5/1d519ad722953c50f7a07f9ba485ccc4.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/bbb83d421cf52cd7952a2c3e5dab29e3/58556/1d519ad722953c50f7a07f9ba485ccc4.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/bbb83d421cf52cd7952a2c3e5dab29e3/61e93/1d519ad722953c50f7a07f9ba485ccc4.webp 200w,\n/static/bbb83d421cf52cd7952a2c3e5dab29e3/1f5c5/1d519ad722953c50f7a07f9ba485ccc4.webp 400w,\n/static/bbb83d421cf52cd7952a2c3e5dab29e3/58556/1d519ad722953c50f7a07f9ba485ccc4.webp 800w,\n/static/bbb83d421cf52cd7952a2c3e5dab29e3/99238/1d519ad722953c50f7a07f9ba485ccc4.webp 1200w,\n/static/bbb83d421cf52cd7952a2c3e5dab29e3/5e0b8/1d519ad722953c50f7a07f9ba485ccc4.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2276-markdown","title":"The Top 10 Marijuana-Inspired Instagram Accounts","slug":"the-top-10-marijuana-inspired-instagram-accounts","content":"Lying at the epicenter of art and technology, Instagram keeps millennials, baby boomers, and everybody in-between glued to glowing rectangles for hours on end. I am no exception to this obsession, and with an infinite stream of photos at my finger tips, I admit I could scroll all day. \r\n\r\nWith that in mind, I’ve compiled a list of the top 10 cannabis-inspired Instagram accounts I just can’t resist browsing through. These are not the accounts with the most followers and they don’t have anything to do with Kardashian (Thank God), but they do contain unforgettable memes, insider looks, and even amber sunrises glistening over Mendocino harvests. \r\n\r\nWhether you want to stay up to date on the latest and greatest or are just checking out some fantastic photography, take a look and see the best Instagram has to offer for the discerning cannabist.\r\n\r\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58b4b02310b47e000bb27b62/embedded_images/58b4b02510b47e000bb27b63/Screen_Shot_2017-02-27_at_2.36.11_PM.png)\r\n\r\n### 1. [@absolutextracts](https://www.instagram.com/absoluteextracts/?hl=en) \r\n\r\nAbsolute Xtracts sits at the top of cannabis extract companies, and is committed to giving Californians the best in strain specific CO2 oils. I can’t stress strain specific enough… No “sativa” blends here! Check out their cannabis cartridges in action or even see a few videos from right inside the processing plant itself.\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![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58b4b02310b47e000bb27b62/embedded_images/58b4b02910b47e000bb27b67/Screen_Shot_2017-02-27_at_2.39.19_PM.png)\r\n\r\n### 2. [@weedhumor](https://www.instagram.com/weedhumor/?hl=en)\r\n\r\nThis Instagram dishes out the daily humor with an overarching theme of, well, weed. Go check out some hilarious posts and laugh out loud videos @weedhumor. \r\n\r\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58b4b02310b47e000bb27b62/embedded_images/58b4b02810b47e000bb27b66/Screen_Shot_2017-02-27_at_2.40.18_PM.png)\r\n\r\n### 3. [@erik.nugshots](https://www.instagram.com/p/BPssMn2hd91/?taken-by=erik.nugshots&hl=en) \r\n\r\nErik Christiansen, a self proclaimed “cannabis photographer by day and amateur scientist by night,” has dedicated his time to photographing some truly spectacular buds. His channel evokes the delicate brilliance of the cannabis plant up front and close. Really, just some beautiful work. \r\n\r\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58b4b02310b47e000bb27b62/embedded_images/58b4b02710b47e000bb27b65/Screen_Shot_2017-02-27_at_2.42.16_PM.png)\r\n\r\n### 4. [@frenchycannoli](https://www.instagram.com/frenchycannoli/?hl=en)\r\n\r\nFrenchy Cannoli is an artist first and a hash producer second. He crafts some of the finest solvent-less (not solvent-free) hashes in California. Some may scoff at his prices, but it is undeniable that the industry is lucky to have such a dedicated, skilled craftsman educating and spreading cannabis knowledge throughout the business. You can also check out his feature in [Vice](https://video.vice.com/en_us/video/making-hash-with-frenchy-cannoli/5899f11affc9024e75501fab).\r\n \r\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58b4b02310b47e000bb27b62/embedded_images/58b4b02610b47e000bb27b64/Screen_Shot_2017-02-27_at_2.45.36_PM.png)\r\n\r\n### 5. [@hellomd_com](https://www.instagram.com/p/BQJ7sNUgTKD/?taken-by=hellomd_com&hl=en) \r\n\r\nGet ready for some fantastic brand spotlights and the coolest canna-lifestyle posts you’ll find anywhere. We provide you, not only with great cannabis photos and media specialist Dmitry’s outrageous humor (and accompanying videos), but also in depth looks inside the industry with the voices driving medical cannabis onward into the future. \r\n \r\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58b4b02310b47e000bb27b62/embedded_images/58b4c072fb1baf000d3b1ab0/Screen_Shot_2017-02-27_at_4.09.59_PM.png)\r\n\r\n### 6. [@ngaio420](https://www.weedhorn.com/25-weed-smokers-you-should-be-following-on-instagram-1258198061.html)\r\n\r\nThis guy has some seriously hilarious 420 selfies going on but also has a great eye for the visuals. He has mastered the wide-eyed-surprise-look. From the looks of it, he gets around is always dressed well too.\r\n\r\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58b4b02310b47e000bb27b62/embedded_images/58b4c073fb1baf000d3b1ab1/Screen_Shot_2017-02-27_at_4.11.44_PM.png)\r\n\r\n### 7. [@snoopdogg](https://www.instagram.com/p/BQ8rVMWjFIE/?taken-by=snoopdogg)\r\n\r\nDid you think we were really going to make it through a marijuana top 10 list without D-O-double-G? Snoop’s Instagram is something to behold. A combination of hilarious selfie videos and memes, Snoop’s Instagram doesn’t pretend to be anything other than the life and times of the world’s premier canna-sseur.  \r\n\r\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58b4b02310b47e000bb27b62/embedded_images/58b4c1c9fb1baf00172c54f6/Screen_Shot_2017-02-27_at_4.14.33_PM.png)\r\n\r\n### 8. [@glasspipes420](https://www.instagram.com/p/BQ1JZq0DY2c/?taken-by=glasspipes420) \r\n\r\nGlasspipes420 showcases the fanciful work of various glass blowers. Though I do wish more credit was given to the individual blowers, this page keeps reeling me back in with each new captivating creation. It is also one of the few pages dedicated to glass that does not try to sell you anything. \r\n\r\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58b4b02310b47e000bb27b62/embedded_images/58b4c1cafb1baf00172c54f7/Screen_Shot_2017-02-27_at_4.15.39_PM.png)\r\n\r\n### 9. [@true_farma](https://www.instagram.com/p/BQ8I95EDr3W/?taken-by=true_farma)\r\n\r\nThis medically oriented Instagram by TrueFarma showcases many sides of the cannabis plant, but all with a decidedly medical twist. You may find a few memes here and there, but you are most likely to run into a few mind blowing statistics about how CBD can help epilepsy or how cannabis cuts down on opioid abuse. From product showcases to legalization statements, TrueFarma should be your first stop for an enlightening scroll through your Instagram feed.\r\n\r\n[image/11]\r\n\r\n### 10. [@weedstagram420](https://www.instagram.com/p/BNqWYEyAvON/?taken-by=weedstagram420) \r\n\r\nWeedstagram420 has essentially taken Instagram and compiled a collage of everything cannabis. Here you will find flower snapshots, hilarious memes, heady glass, and just a great collection of funny photos. If you’re just looking for a cannabis related laugh, check out their page!\r\n\r\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.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/3802d8f204cf7fd26663fa84067f7110/14b42/8645a02d2ed0624057e8c292837e0c6f.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3802d8f204cf7fd26663fa84067f7110/f836f/8645a02d2ed0624057e8c292837e0c6f.jpg 200w,\n/static/3802d8f204cf7fd26663fa84067f7110/2244e/8645a02d2ed0624057e8c292837e0c6f.jpg 400w,\n/static/3802d8f204cf7fd26663fa84067f7110/14b42/8645a02d2ed0624057e8c292837e0c6f.jpg 800w,\n/static/3802d8f204cf7fd26663fa84067f7110/47498/8645a02d2ed0624057e8c292837e0c6f.jpg 1200w,\n/static/3802d8f204cf7fd26663fa84067f7110/54ac5/8645a02d2ed0624057e8c292837e0c6f.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/3802d8f204cf7fd26663fa84067f7110/58556/8645a02d2ed0624057e8c292837e0c6f.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/3802d8f204cf7fd26663fa84067f7110/61e93/8645a02d2ed0624057e8c292837e0c6f.webp 200w,\n/static/3802d8f204cf7fd26663fa84067f7110/1f5c5/8645a02d2ed0624057e8c292837e0c6f.webp 400w,\n/static/3802d8f204cf7fd26663fa84067f7110/58556/8645a02d2ed0624057e8c292837e0c6f.webp 800w,\n/static/3802d8f204cf7fd26663fa84067f7110/99238/8645a02d2ed0624057e8c292837e0c6f.webp 1200w,\n/static/3802d8f204cf7fd26663fa84067f7110/5e0b8/8645a02d2ed0624057e8c292837e0c6f.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2242-markdown","title":"How to Tell Your Parents You Use Marijuana","slug":"how-to-tell-your-parents-you-use-marijuana","content":"### \"Mom, Dad, I'm Not a Stoner...Really.\"\r\n\r\nHave you thought about discussing your cannabis use with your parents? Cannabis consumption can be a contentious issue between generations due to the stigma attached to it. It can be hard to break parental perceptions regarding cannabis, because many of our parents grew up at the peak of [reefer madness and marijuana propaganda.](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/the-history-of-marijuana-propaganda). \r\n\r\nIf you remember anything about drug education surrounding marijuana back in your own school, you can  imagine the horror stories your parents were told about cannabis use (or abuse) when they were kids. But, here we sit in the age of legalization and despite what your parents may think today, perceptions of cannabis have changed greatly in recent years. Plus, the majority of Americans agree with legalization, so you have that going for you.\r\n\r\nMaybe now is the time to chat with Mom and Dad about your own marijuana consumption.\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### Parents: My Brain is Not an Egg in a Frying Pan\r\n\r\nMany people lived a large part of their life during the peak of the War on Drugs. Drugs became the scapegoat of all the issues that the country was facing, especially during the 1980s when First Lady Nancy Reagan made it her mission to have every child say “Just Say No.” to drugs, which focused the lens on cannabis. The billions of dollars spent on the War on Drugs since that time resulted in a dismal failure, but the stigma against marijuana remains.\r\n\r\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58b49f05e99d85000ba3172d/embedded_images/58b49f08e99d85000ba3172e/Screen_Shot_2017-02-27_at_10.51.39_AM.png)\r\n The War on Drugs delivered images like this to your parents.\r\n\r\nFast forward to now, and it can be hard to convince your parents that a drug they were once told could turn you into a crazy, lazy, crime-creator could actually help ease their arthritis pain, quell anxiety or even make you a happier person. Yet, an open dialogue is the only way to break down the barrier between misrepresentation and the truth about cannabis. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [CANNABIS 101: THC VS CBD](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-thc-vs-cbd)\r\n\r\n### 1. Help Educate Your Parents\r\n\r\nAs a mid twenties millennial, the way I approached cannabis with my parents was at first extremely matter-of-fact. Though it may seem that an emotional appeal of  other peoples’ success with marijuana-as-medicine may be the best way to change perceptions, I found that a science-first approach works best. \r\n\r\nThere are a numerous well documented scientific studies on cannabis that show its efficacy on a variety of medical conditions and how cannabis itself interacts with the body. To understand how cannabis can be a viable medication, it's best to tell your parents how it does not always produce psychoactive side effects. Instead, I told my parents how cannabis is full of [cannabinoids](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabinoids-and-the-immune-system) other than THC, like [CBD, which provides amazing medicinal benefits](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cbd-cannabidiol-the-medicine-of-the-future), all without even getting me high.\r\n\r\nCannabis is also full of [terpenes](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/what-are-terpenes-and-what-is-their-effect) which are non psychoactive and extremely beneficial to our health. Terpenes create the aromas and flavors within different strains and also deliver medicinal benefits to consumers. A terpene such as limonene can act as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and has even been purported to contain anti-cancer properties. Terpenes are good for us!\r\n\r\nThere are a variety of resources you can look to for scientific, peer-reviewed journal articles on the benefits of cannabis.  Google Scholar can be one of your best friends by providing you access to many journal articles for free with a single click. \r\n\r\nThese studies, which come out of extremely reputable universities, can give your parents an insight into the success of cannabis in a purely scientific form. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/download-our-medical-marijuana-patient-study) also provides you with a searchable platform were you can look at a variety of articles on many different medical conditions. These articles are also full of links to peer reviewed studies that show all of the good that cannabis can do in a condensed platform. \r\n\r\nAfter you have educated your parents on the scientific studies behind cannabis, then personal appeals will become that much more impactful. Focusing on scientific studies first when introducing cannabis to my parents gave them the context to look at [peoples’ personal successes](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/marijuana-insomnia-migraines-liz-s-success-story) as a medical triumph. HelloMD has a full range of interviews, in written and video form, which show how people have greatly benefited from cannabis. These types of personal appeals put scientific information into an even more real and understandable form. \r\n\r\n### 2. Mom, Dad, It's Just a Plant\r\n\r\nCannabis has been demonized for generations now, but in the end, it is just a plant. Cannabis as a healing and spiritual herb has been closely tied with human history for thousands of years, being featured in ancient Chinese and Indian history. Cannabis is also the same plant as hemp, just with different amounts of various cannabinoids that draw the line between a medical product and a food stuff. \r\n\r\nI found that a great way to change my parents perception of cannabis was to have them look at hemp itself. Hemp can now be found in almost any grocery store with a health foods section. Hemp seeds are full of essential fatty acids and important minerals, as well lots of protein. Hemp oil features many of the same important dietary qualities of hemp seeds and is filled with good-for-you fats that keep you full and energized. It’s is a great addition to anyone's diet and it doesn't have any of the negatives that are associated with cannabis. Using hemp can be a great bridge between the many misconceptions of cannabis and can show that the basic parts of the plant can have health benefits, even without large amounts of cannabinoids. \r\n\r\n### 3. Tell Your Parents that Bongs are Retro\r\n\r\nCannabis quality has changed greatly, even just in the last ten years. Cannabis is no longer only rolled up in a joint and smoked and a bong, it almost seems retro. Cannabis comes in many different forms, strengths, and with a variety of different administration methods. I have found that cannabis stigma increases when the consumption method is smoking, especially if you talk to your parents about smoking a spliff or a bong. Try talking to your parents about the multitude of ways it can be consumed discreetly and effectively.\r\n\r\nTo many people, the idea of smoking flower evokes thoughts of a specific smell, and conjures the old stoner image. Let's be honest too, specifically, your parents are probably afraid you will be the stoner they hoped you would not be. Yet, the forms of cannabis today, are most likely completely unrecognizable to your parents and also outside of the realm of the taboo. From topical products, to edibles to tinctures, cannabis can be taken in a variety of ways that do not involve smoking at all, and they need to be made aware of this. \r\n\r\nMany cannabis products today, are specifically curated and bred to target a particular condition or symptom. CBD is all the rage today, and  is an anti inflammatory, an analgesic and an anti anxiety. CBD specific strains are known to help children who struggle with seizures live a more normal life and the intensely autistic calm violent tendencies. \r\n\r\n### You Can Change Perceptions\r\n\r\nThe bottom line is that marijuana is not a demon drug it has been made out to be and your influence and knowledge can help change the perceptions of those around you, even with your parents. With some science to back you up and some anecdotal evidence of medical success stories, even the most conservative of parents may have a change of heart (well maybe not the most conservative). \r\n\r\nStay positive, be who you are and feel empowered to educate your parents on the positive aspects of cannabis, of which there are many. Who knows, maybe one day you will even catch your Mom on the couch enjoying an edible to take the edge off after a stressful day at work. Anything is possible.\r\n\r\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.\r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/d9f3faa049c08d522e4728138776295c/14b42/387afc2c3dece0833f62e29b4372d45b.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d9f3faa049c08d522e4728138776295c/f836f/387afc2c3dece0833f62e29b4372d45b.jpg 200w,\n/static/d9f3faa049c08d522e4728138776295c/2244e/387afc2c3dece0833f62e29b4372d45b.jpg 400w,\n/static/d9f3faa049c08d522e4728138776295c/14b42/387afc2c3dece0833f62e29b4372d45b.jpg 800w,\n/static/d9f3faa049c08d522e4728138776295c/47498/387afc2c3dece0833f62e29b4372d45b.jpg 1200w,\n/static/d9f3faa049c08d522e4728138776295c/54ac5/387afc2c3dece0833f62e29b4372d45b.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/d9f3faa049c08d522e4728138776295c/58556/387afc2c3dece0833f62e29b4372d45b.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d9f3faa049c08d522e4728138776295c/61e93/387afc2c3dece0833f62e29b4372d45b.webp 200w,\n/static/d9f3faa049c08d522e4728138776295c/1f5c5/387afc2c3dece0833f62e29b4372d45b.webp 400w,\n/static/d9f3faa049c08d522e4728138776295c/58556/387afc2c3dece0833f62e29b4372d45b.webp 800w,\n/static/d9f3faa049c08d522e4728138776295c/99238/387afc2c3dece0833f62e29b4372d45b.webp 1200w,\n/static/d9f3faa049c08d522e4728138776295c/5e0b8/387afc2c3dece0833f62e29b4372d45b.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2298-markdown","title":"Cannabis Brings People Together","slug":"cannabis-brings-people-together","content":"More often than not we are bombarded with a daily barrage of news stories which paint a fairly bleak picture of the world we live in. Let's face it, there is a lot of division within our global community today and sometimes it seems to be getting worse, not better. All of the [anxiety](https://www.hellomd.com/search/anxiety) surrounding our global community is stressful, but within the dark, cannabis sheds the light. Cannabis actually brings people together, unlike so many things today that are driving people apart. \r\n\r\nHere are some of the ways that cannabis brings people together. \r\n\r\n### Tradition\r\n\r\nEveryone loves tradition and we are constantly fascinated by learning from the traditions of other cultures and groups of people. Cannabis holds long standing traditions in a wide range of cultures and religions ranging from Hinduism to Rastafarianism. Though the traditions tied to cannabis are widespread, they are all connected by the use of cannabis for the purposes of healing and nourishment, both physical and spiritual. \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\nThe goal of cannabis in almost all traditions is to improve the lives of people and to provide them with comfort and spiritual enlightenment. These ideals are what has made cannabis so appealing to so many people, no matter their personal backgrounds. Cannabis provides people a connection to the greater ideal of nourishment, healing, and personal and spiritual understanding. \r\n\r\n### Learning\r\n\r\nCannabis can make you open and excited to learn about new people and new things. Cannabis allows you to free yourself of external stresses and anxieties and focus on the moment.  Marijuana can also pique your curiosity and creativity, leading you to learn and create new things. When you interact with other people with cannabis, you often absorb new information because you find yourself open to new ideas with an understanding mindset. Cannabis can help you find connections between someone who may have led a completely different life than you, and you can learn from all of their unique experiences. \r\n\r\n### Equality\r\n\r\nCannabis has long been a persecuted plant. Though it is now just gaining its rightful respect as a viable medication and a safe alternative to alcohol, it is still widely misunderstood by many people who have been miseducated about marijuana their whole lives. People who consume cannabis widely understand what it is like to live with a sense of stigma.\r\n\r\nRELATED: [CANNABIS FOR INCREASED PASSION & PLAY](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-for-increased-passion-play-part-1)\r\n\r\nMarijuana consumers know what it is like to be widely accepted in some areas, and demonized in others. Due to this, the cannabis community is most often welcoming of other groups that have felt like they have often been demonized or pushed to the side. Cannabis tradition also prioritizes fairness and sharing, meaning people who use marijuana often approach others with open arms and are willing to share what they have with them. \r\n\r\n### Romance \r\n\r\nHave you ever heard the saying, “Couples that smoke together stay together”? Well there is a nugget of truth to that statement. Cannabis can reduce stress and anxiety that often leads to arguments between two people and can lead to even larger problems when tension mounts. \r\n\r\nMarijuana can also lead to increased bonding between couples, both emotionally and sexually. Cannabis often enhances intimacy and sensuality, as well as increases communication between couples. Couples who smoke cannabis together also often share similar views and ideals, leading to an increase in trust, support, and understanding within the union. \r\n\r\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.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/0587f3c11fbe84fb6ad89118620095b6/14b42/81b3bf717b5b28bc8f7d7b5f41f4b54a.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0587f3c11fbe84fb6ad89118620095b6/f836f/81b3bf717b5b28bc8f7d7b5f41f4b54a.jpg 200w,\n/static/0587f3c11fbe84fb6ad89118620095b6/2244e/81b3bf717b5b28bc8f7d7b5f41f4b54a.jpg 400w,\n/static/0587f3c11fbe84fb6ad89118620095b6/14b42/81b3bf717b5b28bc8f7d7b5f41f4b54a.jpg 800w,\n/static/0587f3c11fbe84fb6ad89118620095b6/47498/81b3bf717b5b28bc8f7d7b5f41f4b54a.jpg 1200w,\n/static/0587f3c11fbe84fb6ad89118620095b6/54ac5/81b3bf717b5b28bc8f7d7b5f41f4b54a.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/0587f3c11fbe84fb6ad89118620095b6/58556/81b3bf717b5b28bc8f7d7b5f41f4b54a.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0587f3c11fbe84fb6ad89118620095b6/61e93/81b3bf717b5b28bc8f7d7b5f41f4b54a.webp 200w,\n/static/0587f3c11fbe84fb6ad89118620095b6/1f5c5/81b3bf717b5b28bc8f7d7b5f41f4b54a.webp 400w,\n/static/0587f3c11fbe84fb6ad89118620095b6/58556/81b3bf717b5b28bc8f7d7b5f41f4b54a.webp 800w,\n/static/0587f3c11fbe84fb6ad89118620095b6/99238/81b3bf717b5b28bc8f7d7b5f41f4b54a.webp 1200w,\n/static/0587f3c11fbe84fb6ad89118620095b6/5e0b8/81b3bf717b5b28bc8f7d7b5f41f4b54a.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2377-markdown","title":"The 3 Top Marijuana Friendly Dating Sites ","slug":"the-3-top-marijuana-friendly-dating-sites","content":"How do you feel if your new love interest smokes marijuana regularly? Though cannabis is becoming increasingly more socially acceptable, for many people it can still be a very decisive issue when it comes to finding a new partner. Whether people abstain from marijuana because they feel uncertain about the legality of it or if they have antiquated idea of cannabis itself, many people who abstain from cannabis themselves prefer that their partners do also. \r\n\r\nA Match.com survey conducted in 2015 of more than 5,500 singles found that 70% of them believed it would be a turn off if their partners smoked marijuana. 38% of men and 24% of women in the same survey said they would be okay with a partner who smoked cannabis regularly. \r\n\r\nOK Cupid, however, found very different statistics when they conducted their own survey. 50% of people in every state but West Virginia, said that they would be okay with a partner who used some form of drugs, including cannabis. The survey also found that career is often the strongest influence on people’s feelings towards their partner using cannabis. People with careers in medicine or law were far less likely to be okay with their partner using cannabis than people in other fields. \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\nPeople who are involved in the cannabis industry or use marijuana on a regular basis may often find it hard to date in a traditional manner. Some may feel judged by individuals they would like to date when they mention that they smoke marijuana, or people find that there isn't an easy way to have a conversation about their own cannabis usage. As a result, cannabis friendly dating sites have been popping up in recent years to give marijuana consumers the freedom to find love with a partner where cannabis consumption is an accepted part of daily life. \r\n\r\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58adb46cccbaa60015a5effb/embedded_images/58adb4eaccbaa6000b9bc0ad/Screen_Shot_2017-02-22_at_7.43.10_AM.png) \r\nMolly Peckler, founder of Highly Devoted, coaches dating clients over Skype.\r\n\r\nCannabis specific dating has even garnered its own companies in the high-end market. [Highly Devoted](http://highlydevotedcoaching.com/), a cannabis friendly life and dating coaching service, was founded by a California based former matchmaker Molly Peckler. She is considered the world’s first Cannabis Friendly Life Coach and Dating Expert and connects with clients globally via Skype.\r\n\r\nHighly Devoted was created as an upscale life coaching service that gives people advice and tips abut how to navigate the world of dating when cannabis is a component of their everyday life. Molly and her husband long shared marijuana together, so she believes it is a great way to bring people closer together and make life-long connections.\r\n\r\nRELATED: [MARIJUANA INCREASES YOUR SEXUAL EXPERIENCE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/marijuana-increases-your-sexual-experience)\r\n\r\n[High There!](http://www.highthere.com/) is another cannabis dating platform that is also a social network which \"promotes uniting cannabis users and enthusiasts with each other in a friendly and judgment-free environment\". Dating is only one component of High There! but the dating platform is set up much like Tinder. Aside from finding dates, the 300,000 users of High There! can also connect with like-minded people and talk about different cannabis and life related topics. Their tagline is \"You've got more friends than you think.\"\r\n\r\n[420 Mate](https://my420mate.com/) is one cannabis specific dating site that has a half a million users in 50 states and 88 countries. 420 Mate was founded by Miguel Lorenzo, a regular cannabis consumer himself who created the digital dating platform with a ‘judgement free zone’ in mind. 420 Mate allows cannabis consumers the ability to connect with people who are accepting of their lifestyle choices.  \r\n\r\nA million people use these different dating sites, which shows that there is a large community of people who desire to find love with acceptance regarding lifestyle choices. People who consumer cannabis face less stigma today but it is still very real. Cannabis specific dating sites provide people with a safe space where they don't have to explain or justify their preferences and marijuana activities. If you find it hard to connect with people who are accepting and understanding of your cannabis use, one of these cannabis dating sites could be a great choice for you. \r\n\r\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.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/4c53c3c82bd23c42aa94830bd9f7c9b1/14b42/94f9b580ef177fbdf02995d686dd590d.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4c53c3c82bd23c42aa94830bd9f7c9b1/f836f/94f9b580ef177fbdf02995d686dd590d.jpg 200w,\n/static/4c53c3c82bd23c42aa94830bd9f7c9b1/2244e/94f9b580ef177fbdf02995d686dd590d.jpg 400w,\n/static/4c53c3c82bd23c42aa94830bd9f7c9b1/14b42/94f9b580ef177fbdf02995d686dd590d.jpg 800w,\n/static/4c53c3c82bd23c42aa94830bd9f7c9b1/47498/94f9b580ef177fbdf02995d686dd590d.jpg 1200w,\n/static/4c53c3c82bd23c42aa94830bd9f7c9b1/54ac5/94f9b580ef177fbdf02995d686dd590d.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/4c53c3c82bd23c42aa94830bd9f7c9b1/58556/94f9b580ef177fbdf02995d686dd590d.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4c53c3c82bd23c42aa94830bd9f7c9b1/61e93/94f9b580ef177fbdf02995d686dd590d.webp 200w,\n/static/4c53c3c82bd23c42aa94830bd9f7c9b1/1f5c5/94f9b580ef177fbdf02995d686dd590d.webp 400w,\n/static/4c53c3c82bd23c42aa94830bd9f7c9b1/58556/94f9b580ef177fbdf02995d686dd590d.webp 800w,\n/static/4c53c3c82bd23c42aa94830bd9f7c9b1/99238/94f9b580ef177fbdf02995d686dd590d.webp 1200w,\n/static/4c53c3c82bd23c42aa94830bd9f7c9b1/5e0b8/94f9b580ef177fbdf02995d686dd590d.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2399-markdown","title":"The Connection Between Yoga & Cannabis","slug":"the-connection-between-yoga-and-cannabis","content":"### A Historic Connection\n\nCannabis has been sacred within Buddhist cultures in India for thousands of years where it has been used as a spiritual and meditative aid. Yoga originated in India, during approximately the same time frame when cannabis appeared. Both yoga and cannabis have been closely tied to meditative processes in India for thousands of years and rose to popularity simultaneously in the United States in the 60s and the 70s. \n\nThe original connection between cannabis and yoga is not exactly known, but different historians have tied the two together in different events, ceremonies, and religious significances. It is believed that the Lord Shiva, the destroyer and creator god in Hinduism, who also happens to be the god of yoga, was rejuvenated from injury after consuming cannabis. Some people believe that this religious connection is what incorporated cannabis into yoga practice in the first place. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nCannabis was also present when many of the modern yoga positions were created. Many of the yoga positions we know of today were created in the 7th century by tantric cultures, who practiced a combination of Shaviaite Hinduism and Tibetan Buddhism. Many of these religious cultures used cannabis regularly as part of their practice while they developed many of the aspects of modern Hatha Yoga. \n\nThe Yoga Sutras, which were compiled in 400 CE, outline the 196 main principles of yoga. The Sutras mention the use of “herbs” to help with subtler attainments. It has been argued by some people that herbs means cannabis, while others refute that fact. Many Sadhu’s today, however, use cannabis for spiritual purposes. These Sadhu’s, or Hindu holy men, believe that cannabis allows them to liberate themselves from perceived existential limits. They use cannabis in all aspects of their prayer, including during yoga. \n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58a38cc01689ad0017e8493b/embedded_images/58a38cc41689ad0017e8493c/Screen_Shot_2017-02-14_at_2.49.37_PM.png)\nCannabis can help you relax and go deeper into your yoga practice.\n \n### Modern Day Cannabis Use\n\nThe idea of cannabis infused yoga was first brought to the United States in 2012. [Dee Dussault], a yoga teacher in San Francisco, opened the [Ganga Yoga](https://www.deedussault.com/) Practice in San Fransisco to provide her clients with a safe space to combine cannabis and their yoga practice. Though cannabis is optional in the classes, it is highly recommended, and the classes are currently only open to patients who have a registered California Medical Marijuana card. \n\nRELATED: [CANNABIS FOR INCREASED PASSION & PLAY PART 1](https://hellomd.com/health-wellness/5887f2c9d88c9d000847c1d0/cannabis-for-increased-passion-and-play-part-1)\n\nCannabis can be used to deepen your yoga practice, whether it is in a cannabis-friendly studio or in the comfort of your own home. Cannabis can help increase your focus and mindfulness during yoga. Sometimes people find it hard to rid themselves of their daily stresses while settling into their yoga practice, but cannabis can help focus the mind and free it from frivolous thoughts. Yoga is all about finding your center within yourself and cannabis can help you achieve that goal. Cannabis helps you to de-stress and prepare yourself to enter a more mediative state. \n\n###  Finding the Right Cannabis Product\n\nAs with all physical activity, it is important to dose cannabis in a way that allows you to still very aware of your body and physical space. First, choose a method of administration that you enjoy and one that helps to relax you. If you prefer to smoke or vaporize, consume a small amount of cannabis. Non-psychoactive high CBD strains such as [ACDC](https://www.hellomd.com/marijuana-strains/acdc) or Electra Tsu are a great choice because they can provide you with a high that allows you to stay relaxed, but alert. \n\nSmall, low dose edibles are also a great choice for your yoga practice. Edibles, when taken in small doses, can provide a good, full body high. Edibles, however, it can be difficult to dose properly since many are packaged in large containers. It is always recommended to go low and slow until you understand your own tolerance level.\n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58a38cc01689ad0017e8493b/embedded_images/58a38cc51689ad0017e8493d/Screen_Shot_2017-02-14_at_2.53.51_PM.png) \nSatori is a HelloMD favorite for cannabis micro dosing.\n\n[Satori bite-sized edibles](https://hellomd.com/brands/5859abb6d50c6c001176da5b) are a great choice for a pre-yoga treat that can bring you into a relaxed, but aware state for your yoga practice. Satori’s bite-sized edible products, which have been referred to as the “sativa of edibles” by our staff, come in 1mg, 3mg, and 10mg doses of THC in delicious chocolate covered treats. \n\nOur HelloMD recommendation for your yoga practice is Satori’s Wild Strawberry bites in Organic Milk chocolate. Each bite has 3mg of THC and is full of simple, wholesome ingredients.  Cofounder of HelloMD Pamela Hadfield, [regularly micro doses low dose edibles](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58797273eb7401000b5ac214/microdosing-cannabis-satori-chocolate-edibles-review) before her yoga practice and says, “It makes me more aware of my breath, my internal rhythm and allows me to go deeper into the poses.” Whatever cannabis product you select the goal is to help you bring your yoga practice beyond where it has ever been before.\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.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/6a81ccfdec634f68daeee9a4cab10db6/14b42/f122b3aa1120f4998d7db10ccfd053b1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6a81ccfdec634f68daeee9a4cab10db6/f836f/f122b3aa1120f4998d7db10ccfd053b1.jpg 200w,\n/static/6a81ccfdec634f68daeee9a4cab10db6/2244e/f122b3aa1120f4998d7db10ccfd053b1.jpg 400w,\n/static/6a81ccfdec634f68daeee9a4cab10db6/14b42/f122b3aa1120f4998d7db10ccfd053b1.jpg 800w,\n/static/6a81ccfdec634f68daeee9a4cab10db6/47498/f122b3aa1120f4998d7db10ccfd053b1.jpg 1200w,\n/static/6a81ccfdec634f68daeee9a4cab10db6/54ac5/f122b3aa1120f4998d7db10ccfd053b1.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/6a81ccfdec634f68daeee9a4cab10db6/58556/f122b3aa1120f4998d7db10ccfd053b1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/6a81ccfdec634f68daeee9a4cab10db6/61e93/f122b3aa1120f4998d7db10ccfd053b1.webp 200w,\n/static/6a81ccfdec634f68daeee9a4cab10db6/1f5c5/f122b3aa1120f4998d7db10ccfd053b1.webp 400w,\n/static/6a81ccfdec634f68daeee9a4cab10db6/58556/f122b3aa1120f4998d7db10ccfd053b1.webp 800w,\n/static/6a81ccfdec634f68daeee9a4cab10db6/99238/f122b3aa1120f4998d7db10ccfd053b1.webp 1200w,\n/static/6a81ccfdec634f68daeee9a4cab10db6/5e0b8/f122b3aa1120f4998d7db10ccfd053b1.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2378-markdown","title":"3 Marijuana Myths Busted","slug":"3-marijuana-myths-busted","content":"### Reefer Madness Marijuana Myths\n\nMarijuana’s reputation has long been sullied by ‘Reefer Madness’ which has kept cannabis from being accepted as a viable form of medicine. As the tide has turned and more people are realizing the medicinal potential of cannabis, it can still be hard to break away from the damaging myths that have been created by anti-cannabis crusaders. Here are some of the most common myths about marijuana that have been proved false time and time again. \n\n### Myth 1: Marijuana Is A Gateway Drug\n\nOne of the most common myths cited by anti-marijuana advocates is that marijuana serves as a gateway to the use of “harder drugs”. The gateway phenomenon, however, has been studied multiple times by different researchers who have all concluded that cannabis is not a gateway drug. \n\nRice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy conducted a [40 year study](http://www.bakerinstitute.org/bennett-charts/) that tracked drug and alcohol usage. Data began being collected in 1975 through the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. The study found that in between the years of 1979 and 2014, the number of people twelve years old and older who used marijuana in their lifetime rose from 28% to 44.2%. \n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/5898c565442dff000825ca0b/embedded_images/5898c566442dff000825ca0c/Screen_Shot_2017-02-06_at_10.40.23_AM.png) \nThe movie Reefer Madness was used as blatant anti-marijuana propaganda.\n\nThe number of people who used marijuana in the last year, however, decreased from 16% to 13.2%, as did the  number of people who had used marijuana in the last month, from 13% to 8.4%. These numbers show low levels of frequent marijuana consumption, as well as a general decrease in semi-consistent marijuana usage. Though marijuana was tried more often by people, they used it less often on average than people did in 1979. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nWhat was found in the study, however, was that alcohol use was far higher than the use of marijuana. The rate of monthly alcohol use is almost six times higher than that of monthly marijuana usage. The study showed that alcohol use had decreased slightly over the course of data collection, but that it was used at a much higher rate than marijuana on average. \n\nAnother study, which used the same data as the Rice University study found that out of  2,800 12th graders from across the country, 54% of them used alcohol before any other drug, compared to only 10% who used marijuana first. The study also found that the earlier teens used alcohol, the more likely they were to try other drugs and use them more frequently. \n\nThe [National Institute of Drug Abuse](https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana/marijuana-gateway-drug) has conclusively reported that majority of marijuana users do not go on to take other drugs and a 2008 study out of the American School Health Association, which also used Monitoring the Future data, found, “that alcohol represented the ‘gateway’ drug, leading to the use of tobacco, marijuana, and other illicit substances.” So, if there is one substance people have to worry about being a gateway for other drug use it is alcohol, not marijuana. \n\n### Myth 2: Legalization Leads to Increased Traffic Deaths\n\nA [study from Columbia University](https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/287489) that was published in the American Journal of Public Health this year found that medical marijuana legalization actually led to a to an immediate reduction in traffic fatalities. The study looked at United States traffic fatalities between 1985 and 2014. There was a reduction of traffic fatalities found in in people between 15 and 44 years of age after the legalization of medical marijuana. The study also found an additional decrease in traffic fatalities where there were open medical marijuana dispensaries. \n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/5898c565442dff000825ca0b/embedded_images/5898c568442dff000825ca0d/Screen_Shot_2017-02-06_at_10.48.32_AM.png) \nMarijuana is not a danger to society.\n\nThere was some variation among the different states and areas in the study, but the overall decrease in traffic fatalities tied with medical marijuana legalization showed that marijuana legalization actually made people far safer. The researchers in the study came to a few potential explanations for the decrease in traffic deaths. One conclusion was that people under the influence of marijuana were far more aware of their impairment than people under the influence of alcohol, and that they often consumed marijuana inside the home rather than out of the house at bars and restaurants. The researchers also pointed to a possible increase in police presence in areas where marijuana is legal as a reason for decreased traffic fatalities. No matter the suspected reasoning, the data speaks for itself when it shows that marijuana legalization is tied to a decrease in traffic deaths, as opposed a rumored increase. \n\n### Myth 3: Legalization Leads to Increased Teen Use\n\nMarijuana is actually harder for teens to purchase nowadays. Data from the [2016 monitoring the future survey](http://www.usnews.com/news/data-mine/articles/2016-12-13/marijuana-is-harder-than-ever-for-younger-teens-to-find) found that 8th and 10th graders had the lowest marijuana availability since data began to be collected on the question in 1992. \n\nIn 2016, 34.6% of 8th graders said that it would be easy to get marijuana, which is a 2.4% drop since 2015. 64% of 10th graders said that marijuana would be easy to get, a slight drop since the previous year. 12th graders, however, did report an increase in ease of accessibility to marijuana, but it was not a statistically significant increase from 2015 when they reported the lowest ever rates of easy access. \n\nOverall teen use of marijuana is down as well as more states legalize cannabis. In 2016, 5.4% of 8th graders reported using marijuana in the past month, down from 6.5% in 2015. The number of 8th graders who reported smoking marijuana daily was also down 0.4% between 2016 and 2015. The number of 12th graders who smoked marijuana in the past month and daily remained stable from 2015 to 2016, which maintains the lowest rates of use in the last two decades.  All of this nationwide information is consistent with the declined use of marijuana by teens in Colorado following recreational legalization in the state. Colorado had a lower than average use of cannabis by teens, and in 2015, the number of teens who used cannabis in the last month had decreased even though the marijuana industry in the state continued to expand. Teens are actually using less cannabis, which is now also harder for them to access, as more states continue to legalize medical and recreational marijuana. \n\n### The Truth About Cannabis\n\nMarijuana is an extremely beneficial medication for millions people who suffer from various conditions. Cannabis has provided a breakthrough for decreasing the use of highly addictive opioids which are being abused at epidemic proportions. The pain relieving factors of cannabis cannot be denied, as well as it’s ability to help people with conditions like anxiety get through their day unimpeded. \n\nAnti-cannabis crusaders, inside and outside of government, often use their stand influence and perpetuate untrue and damaging stereotypes about marijuana. Studies from influential institutions and countless patient testimonies and new research is proving that marijuana is a safe and effective medication that can aid people in finding and alternative source for pain relief.\n\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","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/e5d2cef0de115bfcb49f3284d44740f7/14b42/116ad19a6f74e7d8a5e6bccfa56934a7.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e5d2cef0de115bfcb49f3284d44740f7/f836f/116ad19a6f74e7d8a5e6bccfa56934a7.jpg 200w,\n/static/e5d2cef0de115bfcb49f3284d44740f7/2244e/116ad19a6f74e7d8a5e6bccfa56934a7.jpg 400w,\n/static/e5d2cef0de115bfcb49f3284d44740f7/14b42/116ad19a6f74e7d8a5e6bccfa56934a7.jpg 800w,\n/static/e5d2cef0de115bfcb49f3284d44740f7/47498/116ad19a6f74e7d8a5e6bccfa56934a7.jpg 1200w,\n/static/e5d2cef0de115bfcb49f3284d44740f7/54ac5/116ad19a6f74e7d8a5e6bccfa56934a7.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/e5d2cef0de115bfcb49f3284d44740f7/58556/116ad19a6f74e7d8a5e6bccfa56934a7.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e5d2cef0de115bfcb49f3284d44740f7/61e93/116ad19a6f74e7d8a5e6bccfa56934a7.webp 200w,\n/static/e5d2cef0de115bfcb49f3284d44740f7/1f5c5/116ad19a6f74e7d8a5e6bccfa56934a7.webp 400w,\n/static/e5d2cef0de115bfcb49f3284d44740f7/58556/116ad19a6f74e7d8a5e6bccfa56934a7.webp 800w,\n/static/e5d2cef0de115bfcb49f3284d44740f7/99238/116ad19a6f74e7d8a5e6bccfa56934a7.webp 1200w,\n/static/e5d2cef0de115bfcb49f3284d44740f7/5e0b8/116ad19a6f74e7d8a5e6bccfa56934a7.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":72,"numPages":10,"currentPage":7,"id":5167,"name":"Culture & Lifestyle","slug":"culture-and-lifestyle","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}