In this brave new world we have come to find ourselves in, people all over the UK are experiencing unprecedented levels of stress and anxiety.
Faced with an invisible yet looming threat, many are struggling to deal with the massive uncertainty of the current situation.
However, there is opportunity within this crisis.
An opportunity to accept that which we cannot control, and to take responsibility for that which we can control.
So what do we have control over?
I would suggest that the only things we can have true control over is our mind and body – our thoughts and our actions.
Therefore, if you want to beat anxiety and stress, start by taking responsibility for your own mental and physical health by learning about things like mindfulness, exercise and healthy eating habits.
And CBD. Definitely look into CBD. Let me tell you why
By interacting with certain receptors in the nervous system – notably serotonin receptors and the 5-HT1A receptor- CBD can positively affect many bodily functions, such as our stress response, addictive behaviours, appetite, sleep, pain and nausea.
In short, CBD has been found to…
- reduce anxiety
- reduce inflammation
- have antidepressant properties
- have antipsychotic properties
5 ways to use CBD for health, happiness and sanity
So with all this in mind, now let me explain exactly how I make use of CBD every day in order to stay happy, healthy and sane.
1. Take CBD after meals to control blood sugar levels
There is growing evidence that cannabis can help regulate blood sugar levels, reduce insulin resistance, and even prevent weight gain.
For example, this 2016 study showed that CBD in combination with another cannabis compound, called tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), helped lower blood sugar levels and increase insulin production in people with type 2 diabetes.
I personally vape CBD flower after most meals as CBD flower offers a full range of cannabinoids and various terpenes, while vaping is a very quick way to get the compounds into my bloodstream. Other full spectrum products would also be suitable.
2. Take CBD before meditation or exercise
If exercise and meditation were pills, they would be prescribed to everyone. Their benefits are well established and extensive.
However, both take a lot of focus and discipline to do consistently. Which is where CBD comes in. CBD calms your mind right down, allowing it to focus on the present moment.
By taking, for example, a couple of drops of CBD oil before a workout or your mediation practice, you’ll find it easier to get into ‘the zone’, block out distractions and focus on the task at hand – whether that be training your body or your attention.
3. Put CBD oil in your morning smoothie to kick-start day
Wholesome smoothies, full of natural, nutritious food, are a great way to boost your health. And CBD oil makes the ideal ingredient.
I find that having a CBD-infused smoothie in the morning is an easy way to get a great start to the day. You’ll also feel calmer and better equipped to handle whatever the day brings as your stress response has been subtly relaxed.
4. Use CBD creams and balms to repair old injuries
We all have them. Niggles and old injuries that haven’t healed properly. Knees, shoulders and backs are common sites of discomfort. Well, now’s the time to finally sort these issues out.
Rehab the injuries through stretching, exercise and CBD. There are some incredible CBD creams and balms out there that will help your muscles and joints heal.
CBD cosmetics are also available for treating and healing skin problems.
5. Give CBD edibles it to friends and family who are stressed or worried
One of the most effective ways to increase wellbeing is to help someone else. That’s right, there’re many proven mental and physical benefits to helping others.
So, why not give a family member or friend who may be struggling with the way things are right now a CBD-infused treat.
I recently made some CBD cookies and gifted them to various family members. They went down an absolute treat and people have been telling me how relaxed and carefree they felt.
This article is sponsored by our friends Ice Head Shop, where you can find a huge range of CBD products, as well as smoking accessories, cannabis seeds and vaporisers.
