A TOKE OF gratitude

The pace of life today is fast and stress is an inevitable part of that, but it doesn't have to take over your daily experience. Stress can be turned into a helpful ally by cultivating a better relationship with it, thereby increasing resilience, and improving your overall well-being. The article discusses the role of the endocannabinoid system and cannabis in addressing stress, as well as tips for reducing your stress levels and feeling more peaceful every day.

First, we need to understand how stress works in the body. When we perceive a threat, our bodies release stress hormones. This activates the Sympathetic Nervous System, preparing us to fight or flee. In order to protect us from danger, the Sympathetic Nervous System provides energy and strength to overcome the threat. When the threat subsides, the Parasympathetic Nervous System takes over. The system promotes relaxation, rejuvenation and repair. It also reduces the activity of the Sympathetic Nervous System and stimulates digestion and reproductive functions - bringing our bodies back into balance.

The key to building a resilient relationship with stress is to promote the Parasympathetic response so that it can work its magic! There are many tools that we can use to do this, including mindfulness, movement, and plant medicine.

Cannabis + Stress

Cannabis helps manage stress through its interaction with our internal endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS functions like a control center in our bodies that helps keep things balanced and working properly. It does this by using special molecules called endocannabinoids, which connect to receptors in our bodies to regulate things like our mood, hunger, sleep, and how our bodies feel pain.

Consuming cannabis is a great way to promote a Parasympathetic response, initiating our body’s healing state. Cannabis contains powerful compounds called cannabinoids (THC, CBD, CBN, etc.), which bind to our body's endocannabinoid receptors and help calm down the nervous system, control inflammation, promote balance, and ultimately reduce stress.

Double your stress support

Incorporate a gratitude practice into your cannabis consumption! By focusing on what you are grateful for, you can become more mindful and present. This shift in perspective can help to calm the mind and soothe the nervous system, reducing the e ects of stress and promoting feelings of peace and contentment. We call this a “Gratitude Sesh” and here’s how you can try it for yourself…

4 simple steps for your gratitude sesh

Step 1 Set Your Intention

Before you start, take a moment to close your eyes and set a positive intention for how you want to feel.

Step 2 Breathe Deeply

Take a few deep breaths to land yourself into the present moment. Then as you inhale that first pu , imagine breathing in peace and calm. As you exhale, imagine letting go of any tension or stress.

Step 3 Practice Gratitude

Place your hand on your heart and begin to visualize someone or something you love unconditionally, imagine the love and gratitude expanding out of your chest and filling the whole room. Sit in this feeling for a few minutes as you continue to smoke.

step 4 notice how you feel

Take some time to notice the state of your body and how you feel. Don’t assign any stories or ideas to this feeling, just notice.

YOU’RE PREPARED TO SESH intentionally!

At the end of the day we don't have control over what's happening around us, but we do have control over what happens within. By harnessing the benefits of plant medicine and promoting a positive mindset, you create a more balanced relationship to stress and can cultivate a happier, healthier, and more peaceful life.

Written By: Bridget Francis

Bridget is a practicing embodiment coach. She holds certifications from AFPA in holistic nutrition, as well as specializing in herbalism from Herbal Academy. Bridget founded Inner Calm Co., (@innercalmco) a wellness company, with the desire to help her clients find balance and confidence in their wellness journeys.