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Cannabis Rescheduling Takes The Next Steps

The Biden administration’s marijuana rescheduling takes the next step

The Department of Justice is moving marijuana rescheduling to the next step. The administration has proposed moving the drug from Schedule I, a strict classification including drugs like heroin, to Schedule III, which is more on the level of Tylenol. It also marks the federal government acknowledgement the plants medical benefits. The industry will watch over the next few months as the process of moving it forward grinds ahead.

RELATED: Americans Want It, Some Politicians Prefer a Nanny State

President Joe Biden announced move on his official account on X (formerly known as Twitter.  In a video Biden shared “This is monumental, It’s an important move towards reversing long-standing inequities. … Far too many lives have been upended because of a failed approach to marijuana, and I’m committed to righting those wrongs. You have my word on it.”

Vice President Kamala Harris also released a video Thursday, hailing the progress. It seems she has progressed in her position over the last 5 years.

Official White House Photo by Andrea Hanks

A key part of the next step is a 60-day comment period. This will allow any and all parties to provide information, opinion, support or random thoughts. Already a group of GOP Senators want to either slow or stop the process. Senator Mitt Romney (R-UT) has started leading an effort to stall the plan if not outright stop it. They are going against the general public opinion with 85%+ believe it should be legal in some form.

The Drug Enforcement Agency is not 100% on board and there are still hurdles to rescheduling. After the comment person, there could be a review from an administrative judge, which could be a drawn-out process.  The total process can take from 3 months to a year, although it is unlikely the issue will not be resolved before the election.

RELATED: California or New York, Which Has The Biggest Marijuana Mess

Considering the stance of the federal government, Senator Mitch McConnell, and certain other opponents, the road is still going to be a bit bumpy.  The industry, in an awkward growth mood, is in need of the government not to be a hindrance.  But only time will tell.

Slovakia And Cannabis

Despite being landlocked – it become a tourist destination for it’s beautiful outdoors – but can you chill in Slovakia?

The Slovak Republic came into being in 1993 after  centuries under Russia, Austria, monarchs and more. Beautiful towns, breathtaking outdoors and affordable prices makes the country a tourist hot spot. They receive as many tourists and they have citizens, so the place is hopping. But what about Slovakia and cannabis? Well, not so breathtaking.

RELATED: Americans Want It, Some Politicians Prefer a Nanny State

Slovakia is a parliamentary democratic republic with Catholics a majority of the population. It ranks the 46th of the richest country in the world. The capital, Bratislava, is the 19th-richest region of the European Union with 90% of citizens owning their homes.  Traditionally more Euro friendly, it has lately become polarized and embracing a backward phase, which has hurt in the way of cannabis use.  The attempted assassination of the Prime Minster, whose government seems to be at least open to listening about the benefits of medical marijuana, is another set back.

Photo by HighGradeRoots/Getty Images

Canada, the United States and some of Europe is taking a more modern approach to cannabis allowing for medical, and increasingly, full recreational.  Bringing a healthy illicit market into the legal sphere has been a boon for tax revenue and has unexpected positive effect for the population. The medical community has embraced the plant for its currently know medical benefits and are pushing for research.  But in Slovakia, marijuana is illegal and possession of even small amounts of the drug (a joint) can lead to lengthy prison terms. Having a small amount can end with the offender spending up to eight years in prison.

RELATED: California or New York, Which Has The Biggest Marijuana Mess

The country was once joined with the Czech Republic, who allows personal possession has  since it was decriminalized in January 2010 with medical cannabis has been legal since 1 April 2013. Unlike Slovakia, which is prominently Catholic, the  Czechs are less religious and have a pragmatic and practical view of the world.

If you are visiting, you should be very careful bringing or buying anything in country.

Does Francis Ford Coppola Consume Weed

His talent created Apocalypse Now, the Godfather movies and now Megalopolis – but does he consume marijuana?

He is a legend in the film industry and directed Apocalypse Now and the Godfather. He burst on onto the scene in the 1960s and 70s and brought in a new generation of movies. Known as one of the greatest directors of all time, he also went on to make a name in the wine industry. Displayed at one of the wineries are some of his five Academy Awards, six Golden Globe Awards, two Palmes d’Or, and his British Academy Film Award (BAFTA). With all the creativity and pressure, does Francis Ford Coppola consume weed?

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The 60s and 70s were when weed came out of the closet and from New York to LA creatives, artists, celebrities and every day people tried a little. “Turn on, tune in, drop out” was the counterculture-era phrase popularized by Timothy Leary in 1966. The talented director was able to reflect the past and embrace the new with his film.  It was one of his early successes, Apocalypse Now, which  marijuana burst into the open. There are great clips of Dennis Hopper stoned on set.

Megalopolis could be the last major project film for the director, and it has taken him 40 years to get it made.  His unique approach is again make headlines with the team sharing he has spent hours on end smoking plenty of cannabis while everybody waited.

“I never took any drugs in my life at all except for some grass,” Coppola said. “I found that the effect that the grass would have on me is interesting. One, it would make me extremely focused, so if I was trying to evaluate a script or write a script, I wasn’t thinking of all the things where my feelings were hurt about this or I was worried about that.”

He added, “I’m sure grass affects different people in different ways. For me, I tended to be very focused. If I smoked a joint, I couldn’t fall asleep. I’d want to work. And often, I stayed up all night trying to rewrite a script.”

RELATED: How To Microdose Marijuana

A savoy businessman, he turns his passion into money. His love of wine had made him money with two wineries, his love of beauty and travel has brought him a luxury hotels and his love of cannabis has brought him into the industry. Coppola launched Sana Company in partnership with Humboldt Brothers in 2018 and released the brand known as The Grower’s Series.

 

Cannabis Can Help Painful Menstrual Cramps

It can be a miserable time of month – especially for those who suffer extreme pain….but cannabis can help.

It is a fact of life and comes almost like clockwork. Some 60% of woman have mild cramps during their period and about 5% to 15% report period pain that’s so severe that it affects their daily activities. Experts aren’t quite sure why some have more pain others.  Since this is a little research area, some scientist rely on everyone’s body is different. Symptoms include aching, throbbing pain or a feeling of pressure in the abdomen, pain in the hips, lower back and inner thighs along with nausea, dizziness and headaches.  The good news is cannabis can help painful menstrual cramps.

RELATED: Can CBD Help With PMS?

Some simple ways to help reduce the pain is to ensure you have enough rest and avoid caffeine, alcohol and cigarettes. Cannabis is proven to have medical benefits, especially with inflammation and pain relief. Marijuana expands blood vessels which helps reduce cramps, and relieve headaches and other minor pain. It is also fast acting, often quicker than natural or other medicines.

Photo by IRA_EVVA/Getty Images

While edibles and smoking may help, many women are turning to topicals and cannabis suppositories for pain relief. With 50% of the country having access to legal weed, it can be considered a viable option.  While more research needs to be done, anecdotal data indicts it can help and quickly.

Suppositories or cannabis tampons can provide quick pain relief. They take around 15 minutes to work, and directly affect the pelvis muscles and uterus, relaxing the insides and reducing tension. Best to use them right before bed or when you’re going to be laying down for a while. Relax, and be sure to wear something for the sake of your underwear.

Another way is cannabis bath salts. An effective way to combat pain and period cramps is relaxation, which can be facilitated with a nice long bath and some fancy bath salts.  They can provide relief for up to 5 hours but might leave you a little loopy afterwards.

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A cannabis balm can be used anywhere on the body, including the the site of the cramps.  It is an analgesic, so if the cramps are particularly powerful, add a spoonful of the balm to the insides of your vagina and let it melt. Do this when you have time to let the balm do it’s work.

Studies have shown can also lift moods, and more than just temporarily.  Marijuana can also help minimize mood swings and bring overall mood stability. Cannabis can aid in the regulation of our brain’s neurotransmitters which can help us get better control of our emotions.

Signs Your Kid May Be Using Marijuana

Until the 80s – parents worried about alcohol, but is a marijuana concern now? 

The world is changing rapidly with Canada and parts of the US and Europe legalizing weed. And the majority of the public believes it should be legal, should it increase concern from parents?  Everyone agrees, like alcohol, marijuana shouldn’t be used until the early 20s.  Part of the reason is both have an impact on the brain development, and the more use, the more change could happen.

RELATED: Science Says Medical Marijuana Improves Quality Of Life

There has been a slight yet significant decline in marijuana use was seen for eighth, ninth, and 12th graders, which is very positive.  In a general health way, Gen Z is drifting away from alcohol and moving slightly more to weed. Alcohol is more damaging to the brain and general development than marijuana.  Overall, it is a healthy trend and California sober is becoming a thing among all ages. But if you have concern, here are signs you kid my be using marijuana.

Photo by Dương Nhân via Pexels

Look At Eyes/Face

People who have been smoking marijuana often have a difficult time hiding the fact they are stoned. THC helps turn eyes red and squinty and, depending on the magnitude of their buzz, their faces can sometimes more closely resemble a cartoon character. Experienced consumers learn how to hide state. They use eye drops to eliminate the redness, and they’ve learned how much weed they can smoke without getting so blasted that they fall apart at the seams. But teenagers still have a lot to learn about getting high before getting to this level. Changes in their laughter (they are easily amused while alone in their room) could also be an indication.

RELATED: Marijuana Legalization Discourages Teenage Use, Study Finds

This is only a sign, allergies, colds, or over screen use can make for red eyes and happiness  or drinking can be a reason for increased laughter. If you have a concern, pay attention to routine and behaviors. 

Check Laundry For Odors

While smoking is still popular, it tends to be for an older audience. If you notice your kidsclothing smells like weed, this might also be a sign that they are using. Vapes and edibles, do not have the signature odor, making them difficult to detect. Spillage from a vape or unknown gummies can be a clue.

Look for vaping equipment and other smoking devices. It also never hurts to see what’s in their trash. In the mind of a teen, you’d never dig through their garbage to see what the are doing.

Notice Eating Habits

Kids are physical growing, and their metabolisms can go to warp speed. It is the usual reason kids always seem to be in the refrigerator looking for something to eat. They may have had dinner an hour ago, yet they are somehow hungry again. Still, a side effects of marijuana is the munchies, so paying attention to eating habits can sometimes be a tell. If they are making an extra sandwich from time to time, that’s probably nothing to worry about.

THCV: Powerful Appetite-Suppressing Cannabinoid
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But if they start coming out of the kitchen with bizarre culinary creations (we always mixed peanut butter and marshmallow fluff), that may be a clue that they are consuming.. The best way to find out for sure is to just call them out on it. When they sit down with a bowl of ice cream topped with Fruity Pebbles, just say, “What, are you high?” What happens next, the squirming, the paranoid behavior might be all the evidence you need.

RELATED: Teens Are Trying Marijuana Before Alcohol and Tobacco

Have An Open Conversation

The most effective method is to have an open, honest and calm conversation. Teens are smart (although they don’t always act like it), so explaining to them how their actions could have repercussions is not beyond their comprehension. We believe showing teens that we are “on their side” is a better approach to parenting than flipping out.

Everyone makes mistakes, and no one is perfect when it comes to following the rules. Help them understand your aversion to marijuana use is really just about ensuring that they have the best opportunities in life.

How To Figure Out If You Are Boring

It is rare for someone to go through life without running into someone who is dull – but to figure out if you are the boring one!

Nothing is worse than being stuck in a meeting, at a dinner, or in a car with someone who is dull and boring. They can’t help it, but they can make the best topics tiresome and miserable.  But what if you discovered you are the boring one?  At some point, lack of energy, mind somewhere else, and other things can make one temporarily dull. But it is being dull in the long term which is painful for you and others.  Here is how to figure out if you are boring.

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The University of Essex in the UK published a paper on traits of dull people. Published in Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, it covered personal traits and the dullest hobbies (top ones – watching TV, bird watching and smoking). Most people (53%) have 1-4 close friends, (38%) say they have five or more. Some 8% say they have no close friends. You can help not only friendships but family and partner relationships but following this advice.

Listen GIF by The Maury Show - Find & Share on GIPHY

Listening Skills

Boring people are poor conversationalists, and poor conversationalists tend to be the worst listeners. Communication is as much about talking as it is about being silent and listening to what the other person is saying. An engaging conversation isn’t one filled with the funniest jokes and the most interesting stories, it’s one where there is an exchange of ideas and conversations. Discover a curious streak and you will learn and time will become more interesting.  Ask relevant questions and let those in the know express themselves.

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Practice patience

Conversations are not competitions, rather it is a way to learn and engage with others. Basic “your turn, my turn” conversation etiquette is taught from a young age. It is no surprise some people have no self-control and allow themselves to take over conversations without giving the others a chance to speak. Work on controlling impulses and push yourself to listen to others.

On the flip side, if your problem is too shy and have a hard time opening up, try to practice and to find ways of making yourself more accessible and of speaking your mind.  Practice with family or friends making conversation, read information and explore things which of interest.

Bored Cat GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

Pay attention

Keep an eye out for people’s body languages whenever you’re talking. If they look distracted, are avoiding eye contact and keep on trying to change the subject then you are probably acting very annoying and boring. Train yourself to pick up on these hints and social cues and try to avoid overstaying your conversational welcome. It is ok to move on, sometimes it is you, sometimes it is them…but being aware can shorten a tough situation.

RELATED: Beer Sales Flatten Thanks To Marijuana

Break Up Lol GIF by What We Do in the Shadows - Find & Share on GIPHY

Build boundaries

Balance is one of the most important parts of conversations but it’s also pretty hard to define. Vulnerability is needed for a meaningful exchange, but too much of it and it’s kind of disastrous. Think about what you are talking about on consistent basis.

Complaining about how awful your life is and how unfair your job will not gain you any friends, even if this is a common behavior. Always aim for sincerity and get to know your audience; don’t tell a stranger your deepest and darkest secrets.

Can Microdosing Marijuana Help You

Most people think of marijuana in a fun, recreational way – but it can help medically – and for those with anxiety….and microdosing can make a difference.

The imagine of people getting stoned is how most people thing of marijuana, but cannabis offers medical benefits which can change a patients life. From chronic pain to anxiety, it can provide a relief.  And it is one of the reasons the American Medical Association and Health and Human Services support rescheduling. But can microdosing marijuana help you?

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The answer is probably yes, but you should talk to your health professional. The most common reasons including chronic pain and anxiety.  More complex reasons include treatment of cognitive deficits, mental illnesses, and many diseases considered incurable.   But to understand the benefits, you have to understand your situation and microdosing.

Microdosing is taking from 2.5-5 mg to “take off the edge” without getting really high.  It is a point to activate within your system to allow the medical properties to have effect and still allow full functioning abilities. You may do it for a day or longer term depending on how you react and also what your healthcare professional suggests.  Roughly 75% of people have a fear of speaking (glossophobia), you may do it for a day where you have to speak to large crowds, or longer if you anxiety is ongoing concern.

While depression and anxiety treatments have improved dramatically over the course of the past decade, medication and counseling are not equally effective for everyone. In fact, according to NCBI, antidepressants proved just 40-60% effective at managing symptoms. Medical cannabis is now consider a valid treatment option with microdosing being effective.

In regards to chronic pain, medical marijuana has been proven to be much, much less addictive than prescribed painkillers, especially opioids. Microsdoing can help you through post surgery, stomach pains, or other ongoing illness which can have a significant impact on day to day life.

RELATED: Science Says Medical Marijuana Improves Quality Of Life

Gummies and vapes are the easiest way to microdose.  Very controlled small amounts in an easily portable vehicle makes it convenient to use when needed. Since gummies are absorbing differently in the body, it takes longer for them to kick in.  Vaping can hit in within 5-10 minutes. While there could be a hint of initial smell, it quickly fades and doesn’t leave an odor on clothes.

If you or someone you know has anxiety, pain or other issue which alters your daily life, talk to a professional and see if microdosing marijuana help you.

 

The 5 Best Mom’s Love Language Gifts

Take a fresh look at what to get Mom for Mother’s Day using her love language…and you might toss in a green treat!

Sunday is Mother’s Day – the day mom are celebrated for all the extra effort they do to make kids life special.  First celebrated in 1907, it became official in the US in 1914 and Canada in 1915.  Between the two countries, spending is expected to reach an all-time high of $35.7 billion this year.  Some of it will be enjoyed, some may not. Here are the 5 best Mom’s love language gifts (and one might be weed!).

RELATED: People Are Choosing Marijuana Over Sleep Aids

 This love language is all about verbal acknowledgments of affection, compliments, words of appreciation and encouragement.  

6 Cannabis Gifts For Mother's Day: CBD, Pre-Rolls And More
Photo by Annie Spratt via Unsplash

Words of Affirmation

Try a special way to tell her you love her. Make a book (easy to do online) of special pictures of the two of you. Write her a letter about what she means to you. You can get her favorite podcast host or even reality TV star to send her a special Mother’s Day shoutout (check out Cameo and all the celebrities they have available). Or consider compiling a video from all the kids and family answer the question ‘why we love you.’ 

Receiving Gifts 

These people enjoy receiving gifts and symbols of love. Monetary value is usually not important but more so the thought and reflection behind the gift.  

 

You can spoil her with luxury and a gift she would never buy herself. While gifts don’t need to be expensive, treat her to something luxurious that you know she wouldn’t want to spend the money on for herself. Think of what she loves and work around it.  Gift cards for books, music, travel, etc can show you want her to enjoy life.

Another thing, what about giving a gift which could help their sleep, mental health or manage pain.  A gummy or edible would be a perfect gift.  Maybe a CBD cream which could help with muscle soreness?

Quality Time 

People who enjoy this love language want someone to spend uninterrupted time with them, make plans and be fully present in their conversations during these times.  Give a gift of an all-inclusive day.  Give a Saturday which could include brunch, a walk, and more.

Gift a unique experience. Anyone can plan brunch or a wine tasting but what about surprising mom with something special. Some ideas include a picnic or colorful charcuterie board with all her favorite foods, a self-portrait session or a local food tour.  

Acts of Service

This love language includes doing favors or taking the burden off the person you are showing love to.  Will cook a special meal, take them a car trip, doing garden together, anything which your Mom would love to do.

Touch 

These people feel loved when they receive physical signs of affection, including kissing, holding hands, and cuddling, to name a few. 

Spoil her with a gift that will make her senses go crazy. While a spa day may seem obvious here and certainly fits the bill, you can also try something unique such as dance classes or something to make her feel extra cozy such as a weighted blanket, robe or new luxury sheets.   

There are many new and fun ways to spoil mom this year. Take it to the next level this time around by considering what will make them feel most loved.

Can Cannabis Enhance The Northern Lights

The Northern Lights are a visual treat for your eyes and mind – can marijuana make it a bit better?

It isn’t common for them to have a widespread show for millions in Canada and the US.  The mesmerizing visuals are captivating…but can cannabis enhance the Northern Lights? NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center shared during the last solar activity of this magnitude, you can could see the lights as far south as Alabama and northern California.  Viewers have a chance on Friday, Saturday or Sunday nights.

RELATED: Music Is A Turn On Like Sex And Marijuana

Northern lights, or the aurora borealis, are created when energized particles from the sun slam into Earth’s upper atmosphere at speeds of up to 45 million mph (72 million kph).  Earth’s magnetic field protects us but gives us a show.  Our magnetic field redirects the particles toward the poles (yes, there are Southern Lights).  The process transforms into a cinematic atmospheric phenomenon that dazzles and fascinates scientists and skywatchers alike.

Marijuana has a rich history of enhancing music, movies and other visual and audio activities.  So it would make watching the rare occasion even better.  But dosage and timing are key – and maybe add some music to lose yourself in the experience.

The central nervous system is activated when we are stimulated with music and visuals. Cannabinoid receptors are a prominent receptors. With cannabis, CB1 receptors become hyperactive, affecting sensation. It also improves current attention, preventing memory seeking with concentrates your brain on the art, making it appear more fresh and intriguing. It is no wonder there is a strain named after the Northern lights.

RELATED: Marijuana And The Creative/Programmer Set

Considering how rare you have the chance to see the Northern Lights?  Why not go all out.  And sciences seems to indicate found people seemed to process sensations more effectively when high.  It could make for a stronger memory of the experience. 

 

Marijuana Gummies Can Make Weddings Easier

Planning a wedding can highly stressful – causing issues and maybe a Bridezilla.  Weed gummies can come to the rescue

The term Bridezilla started in the mid 90s and, by now, many people have seen the unfortunate cross between a bride and Godzilla in person. TicTok, Redditt and other social media are full of horror stories. And the newer phrase in the Mozilla who wants to recreate the event in her image. And this isn’t to mention other drama which can wrap around the event. According to a bride’s study, 71% believe planning a wedding is more stressful than finding a new job.  Maybe marijuana gummies can make weddings easier?

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Most brides and some grooms have a a concept of their ideal day, and the want the whole event to be perfect. Unfortunately, rarely is anything perfect and you have to roll with mishaps and be in the moment. It also involves, for most people who don’t handle complex events or tasks, a large amount of decisions, energy, and money. It can be overwhelming and not everyone can rise above with a gracious outlook. Low dosages of marijuana can help reduce the “heat” of the process.

A key reason marijuana gummies can help is it can reduce the anxiety. With gummies you can have a low dosage and slow roll so you can be productive, focused and calm while dealing with details, decisions, the wedding party and potential in-laws. THC bring a soothing calm by reducing the activity of the sympathetic nervous system. The nervous system induces a “fight-or-flight” response during stressful situations.  Somewhere around 2.5-5 mg during the process can make months or weeks of planning bearable, even if others are not.

Additionally, it is far better for your body (and maintaining a wedding photo body, than alcohol).  If unfamiliar with cannabis, it is much less addictive than alcohol, And alcohol use can result in significant and potentially fatal physical withdrawal, whereas marijuana has not been found to produce any symptoms of physical withdrawal.

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There are thousands of stories about weddings which went wrong due to over stressed wedding party members.  A little gummy can keep make the planning stage easier and the day of the event much more calm and way more fun.

 

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