It’s the holidays!

For many of us, the holidays are a wonderful time to be with family and friends winding down the year. Decorating the Christmas tree or lighting the menorah are treasured traditions that bring everyone closer together. It’s a time for celebrating, reflecting and looking forward to all good things to come.

It’s a time when you want to be relaxed and present, enjoying the moment.

But unfortunately, instead, you find yourself running around with a to-do list a mile long, overwhelmed at everything you have to get done. Family. Shopping. Wrapping. Preparing. Hosting. Serving. Cleaning.

This is great, you say, but does it ever end? What can you do to make some changes? You want to do it differently this year.

If you are feeling stressed at your current situation you are not alone.

Consider prioritizing self-care and what that means to you. For some that means exercise, journaling, seeing a friend, taking a hot bath, reading a book or a glass of wine. Others find relaxation in low-dose cannabis products.

Cannabis can be a natural solution to many ailments including anxiety, depression and chronic pain. If you are suffering, there is help available for you. You can get relief.

In Maine, any M.D., D.O, C.N.P. or P.A. can recommend cannabis for you. As of Dec. 13, a pre-existing condition isn’t required to obtain cannabis. You can visit your health care provider to obtain a certification or the Wellness Connection of Maine.

relaxing

Lower Your Stress Levels with Cannabis

If you are constantly stressed out, your body will stay in that “flight or fight” response and eventually get worn down. You know, because you feel it. It’s that constant state of stress that can be caused by anything – caring for family, sleep disruptions, finances, work, or pain. Just to name a few examples. Sources of stress are everywhere.

That’s why, it’s helpful to counteract that state with activities such as yoga, exercise and meditation, according to Dr. Carey Clark.

THC, which is one of the most popular cannabinoids found in cannabis, can also be helpful – as it increases dopamine levels that can result in more enjoyment, motivation, memory and attentiveness. CBD, yet another popular cannabinoid in cannabis, has powerful healing properties that can help with anxiety and chronic pain, among other health benefits, without the euphoric effect of THC. In other words, CBD won’t get you high, but it will help you feel better.

The key is to find a strain that works for you. According to Clark, someone with high anxiety may benefit from finding a strain with a high percentage of CBD. Everybody is different. When you talk with your doctor, share openly about what is troubling you and whether you have physical pain. You’ll also want to ask your caregiver what medicines are available and what’s worked for other people describing the same symptoms. But remember, everyone’s body is unique, therefore each individual will have their own response to a particular strain. And your own reaction to strains can differ depending on what you’ve eaten that day, your mood and how you consumed.

If you decide to consume cannabis start low and go slow. A little goes a long way. If you are new to cannabis take less than the recommended starting dose (five to 10 mg). Partake in a comfortable environment, with supportive and nonjudgmental people nearby. Stay focused on the effects and check in with yourself every 15 minutes, especially when trying a new strain or delivery method. You also might want to keep a cannabis journal to document what you are experiencing and to track your reactions.

And remember, cannabis is a healing, sacred plant. You cannot overdose or get addicted to cannabis – unlike antidepressants, benzos or opioids.  Be open to exploring this medicine and allow yourself to enjoy the benefits. Relaxation and feeling good are just some of what the right strain and dose of cannabis provides.

This holiday season, give yourself the gift of health and try a few of the Wellness Connection’s most popular products:

Skywalker Kush Strain– One of our most popular strains, this indica-dominant hybrid is known for its heady, euphoric effects combined with its celebrated pain-relieving qualities.

Chocolate Bars – Handcrafted right in the Wellness Connection kitchen,  each bar – in dark chocolate or milk chocolate flavors – has 60 mg of THC. The onset of effect takes about an hour, and relief can last between four to eight hours.

Vape Cartridges – Our Vape Cartridges are available in a variety of strains to best fit your needs. View our menu to see what is in stock and place a pre-order today!

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