Stress has fast become the most prevalent mental illness in North America today. Coupled with anxiety, these two conditions negatively affect the quality of life for millions of people. But fear not, for there is a twofold answer which can be used in conjunction to combat such issues: CBD and Yoga. By harnessing the natural power of cannabis, and the body’s own tremendous capacity to heal and balance itself, this combination is fast becoming the method of choice for those seeking a more relaxed life.

THE EFFECTS OF YOGA

Over the past ten years, a multitude of studies have shown that yoga can significantly lower levels of the stress hormone known as cortisol. As such, this traditional practice can be applied for everything from cancer therapy, to drug addiction, eating disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and even those with anger disorders.

Researchers current best estimate is that stress relief from yoga derives from three places: the yogic poses, the controlled breathing (which lowers heart rate) and the sense of mindfulness (yoga is very often accompanied by meditation)

We’ll start with that last one. Mindfulness can be one of the best ways to silence stress. All because it lets us free our minds from worrying about the past or stressing about the future. By allowing the mind to occupy the here and now, our bodies breath better, can focus more and achieve a mental state that won’t allow for panic attacks or anxiety.

USING YOGA IN CONJUNCTION WITH NATURE

Doing yoga in the great outdoors can profoundly effect our sense of spirituality, our feeling of oneness with the Earth. Yoga and being in nature have very similar effects on our bodies and minds – mindfulness, and a profound reduction in stress.

The most up to date studies show us that people who are more in touch with their spiritual side are often happier. By releasing themselves to a greater power, whether some form of God or the power of nature, they are allowing themselves to feel more at peace, knowing that they are a part of something bigger. Yoga can help us to access our innate need for spirituality, while nature can act as a conduit wherein we find our own place among the Earth’s natural forces.

ALTERNATIVE PRACTICES

While yoga is certainly one of the most famous means to achieve mindfulness, it is certainly not the only one. Tai Chi is another. Many people find that Tai Chi also has significant cognitive benefits, including a reduction in depression and anxiety. Even some higher learning institutions, mainly based in far Eastern countries, are incorporating Tai Chi as part of their curriculum, helping them learn to manage the stress of busy student life.

In addition to these mental effects, Tai Chi can also boast positive physical benefits, very similar to yoga. Greater stability, lung capacity and flexibility are enjoyed by those who practice Tai Chi.

CBD AND YOGA

CBD is also frequently in use to fight stress, mainly due to its ability to respond directly with all cell receptors, including dopamine and serotonin receptors. It is very important to not confuse CBD with THC (this cannabinoid is what gives you the ‘high effect’ from marijuana).

While THC may also have special benefits for those who take it, CBD can provide many of the same effects all while leaving the use mentally unchanged.

CBD if very often enjoyed in oil form, but can also be taken as a topical agent, rubbed upon the skin to help treat inflammation and body pain. Some people even consume it as candy treats like gummy bears! CBD is just one of the naturally occurring compounds in marijuana, but research is showing that for benefits found from their interaction with the central nervous system, CBD is the star of the show.

THE BODIES NATURAL CANNABINOIDS AND CBD

Sometime in the early 1990s, scientists found the endocannabinoid system, which is a part of the central nervous system that regulates vital bodily functions such as mood, pain tolerance, memory, sleep, and appetite.

Not only this, but it also helps to regulate homeostasis. This is the self-regulating activity by which the human body can maintain stability while adapting to changing conditions, in an effort to ensure its own survival.

The endocannabinoid system and its receptors can be found all over the body; and are used by vital neurotransmitters called endocannabinoids. CBD can imitate these endocannabinoids, and aid  the body its constant struggle to maintain many vital functions. Because of this, CBD shows benefits that reach further than stress relief; it promotes a healthy heart, fights inflammation, and ensures healthy skin and hair.

By Using CBD and Yoga, we allow our bodies to heal and move towards a more sustainable lifestyle

USING ALL ANGLES TO BATTLE STRESS

If fear you may be struggling with anxiety or depression, it is of great importance that you check in with your doctor. Working with your personal therapist, there are many paths you might take to fight these conditions.

One of these routes might be to fight stress from a multi-layered approach. Ancient holistic practices like yoga, meditation and Tai Chi can be used to great effect in helping you beat stress, along with taking time to spend in nature. A CBD supplement used in conjunction with these options can also be an important tool to keep in mind when battling stress, too.

Whichever path you take, make sure to always take the time to love yourself and know that help is available if you choose to seek it out. At Shop CBD Online, we are always improving our methods and resources for educating Canadians on Cannabidiol and holistic health. With a wide variety of CBD products, you wont have to worry about being with held form the medicine your body deserves.