CANNABIS in the OUTDOORS FAMILY OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
BY BEN OWENS
Thanks to cannabis, many children are able to experience the proven benefits that nature can have. Try these tips out on your adventures and avoid some of the most common mistakes. As a child, I was all but groomed for outdoor adventures. I spent hours building forts out of dead logs, going camping in a tent with my entire family, and hiking endless trails throughout the Midwest, Southeast, and Southwest. I only attempt to adequately convey the sense of satisfaction, wonder, and awe that is found after a long day’s hike, watching a sunset from the summit of the trail, or getting up early to catch a sun rise while boiling breakfast on a tiny, backpacking stove. Unfortunately, not every child is able to experience the wonders that outdoor adventures offer due to conditions beyond their control. Some are unable to carry heavy items, exert physical energy for sustained periods of time, or even interact with their friends and family due to
incapacitating symptoms such as uncontrollable seizures or chronic pain. Cannabis has allowed these families, and these children, to live “normal” lives, enjoying “normal” activities without the restrictions that come with handfuls of pharmaceuticals. Many treatments can all but sedate children. Cannabis allows them to enjoy a better quality of life and take advantage of outdoor adventures such as hiking, camping and backpacking. This article will discuss the impact that nature can have on a young life, the benefits of encouraging adventures with children, and some tips for avoiding those typical “first timer” mistakes while enjoying the great outdoors.
IMPACT THAT NATURE CAN HAVE ON A YOUNG LIFE
Once you become accustomed to your child’s cannabis treatments, regulating appropriate dosages, and accounting for differences in effects, introducing them to the outdoors can be an eye-opening experience. It may instill a deeper appreciation for nature and the world around them, especially if they’ve never gotten the chance to enjoy a hike through the woods or a campfire on the beach. Studies1 have shown that outdoor environments have a positive impact on our health and may influence how physically active an individual is or becomes. The health benefits of doing so are greater among those who previously did not participate in outdoor or physical activities. Studies have also shown that spending time in nature can help with stress reduction and social cohesion,1 helping your child bond with others in a relaxing environment. Hiking and time spent in nature has also been shown to stop negative, obsessive thoughts,2 which children may have if they feel negatively affected by their conditions or their need for medical cannabis.
MAKE ADVENTURES A FAMILY OUTING
When I was growing up, we spent countless weekends setting up tents, cooking hot dogs over the fire, and going for long hikes. We often set out with no destination in mind—simply to enjoy the breeze, trees, ocean or escape the busy bustle of school, sports, and activities. One of the best ways to enjoy the outdoors is to do so with people who you enjoy. Whether you’re a parent, family member, best friend, scout leader, or any other adult role model, sharing the activities that you enjoy with children in your life helps make that energy contagious. If you love the outdoors, share that love with a child in your life.
Now, not everyone is a huge fan of the great outdoors. My dad, for instance, was not a fan of camping. My mom grew up loving everything about it. Eventually, her enthusiasm for everything outdoorsy caught on, first with my dad and eventually with my sister and I. Since, we’ve spent the last 20+ years camping every year for Thanksgiving. I’ve been to Sleeping Bear Dunes in Michigan, driven up and down the east coast exploring The Outer Banks and the shores of Maine, backpacked for almost two weeks in the backcountry of the Southwest, and explored scallop diving and natural springs in the panhandle of Florida. Every memory that I’ve made has been that much more memorable because I shared it with others. Making time to take a child, teenager, or young adult with you and share your passions—whether it's a day of disc golf or a week in a tent—will offer them years of memories to look back on and share with others when the time comes.
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