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How To Vape Correctly

How people consume marijuana is changing, maybe you should consider mixing it up.

The classic stoner look is fading and the face of those who consume has changed. Even 10 years ago, the concept of someone using weed was a joint, bong or bowl, but consumer trends have dramatically changed. No longer is smoking the 50%+ way people get high, and it tends to be the 50+ aged crowd who does do it.  No, vaping is hot on the heels and gummies command a huge market.  According to BDSA, an analytic company covering cannabis, of the people who consumer 49% have used a gummy and 45% have used a vape.

RELATED: Marijuana And Gut Health

Vape technology has changed and it is become a go-to discreet cannabis consumption method. For modern users, it easy to take to family events, hiking and more…and it has moved away from the d-bag image and more people use them. Here is how to vape using a pen correctly.

First check the charge. If you’re using a pen with a separate cartridge, make sure the battery is charged and turned on. Make sure the cartridge is tightly connected to the battery. Then set the temperature if possible. Some rechargeable batteries allow temperature control, so set the temperature as desired.

For the big moment inhale. Press the button and inhale, or simply inhale if the device has no buttons. Inhale low and slow to pace yourself and maximize cannabinoid intake. This also ensures you don’t overheat the cannabis oil and damage the concentrate.

leading countries for cannabis investments predictions can go up in smoke
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When smoking weed, the paper goes through a combustion process that creates smoke and toxins associated with cancer and other illnesses. Vape pens heat the marijuana and create a vapor, which can still have an odor, but is much less thick and invasive than smoke. Vape pen vapor usually doesn’t cling to clothes and fabrics, and can be quickly dispersed in a room within minutes.

RELATED: Gen Z’rs upending things including weed and voting

legal marijuana users have stopped buying vapes following illness epidemic
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RELATED: A Field Guide To Picking The Best Vaporizer For You

A lot of people argue that vaping is healthier than smoking flower, primarily because you eliminate the combustion and smoke, which are the most harmful aspects associated with marijuana.

Still, there are some risks associated with vape pens, particularly with the chemicals that are in the devices — the side effects of which remain unknown and largely unresearched. It’s also important to purchase products from trusted sources, especially due to the strange vaping illness that appeared last year that affected hundreds of people.

While vaping marijuana is still vaping marijuana, the highs vape pens produce are slightly different than the ones you’d get from a joint. If you’re not used to vaping, be sure to start off slow and to expect a stronger reaction. Vape pens usually pack a stronger hit than joints, especially if the cannabis comes from a concentrate.

All The Ways To Consume Cannabis

Unlike alcohol – cannabis can be consumed in a ton of different ways – here is a quick overview

Marijuana has become mainstream and popular with over 85% of population believing it should be legal in some form. One of the things as weed “comes out the closet” is a the entry of a bunch of new users and former “closet smokers”. These new consumers  are being more open and curious.  The legal market is also opening a variety of way for more people to try different ways to imbibe.  It is all a journey, some ways are for more experienced veterans, others are ok for you very first time.

Here is all the ways to consume cannabis and the basics around the method.

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Smoking And Vaping

The most popular form of consumption is smoking, vaping, or otherwise inhaling marijuana via the lungs. It is one of the quickest way to feel its effects. Users feel euphoria envelop them within minutes of consumption.  You can do old school with joints or store bought pre-rolls.  Bongs and bowls are options. Vaping is almost rivaling smoking and is just as quick in effects but much more discreet. You can purchase vapes for a one time use or invest in system you can reload time and time again.

RELATED: Differences In Marijuana Highs: Flowers, Edibles and Concentrates

Edibles

Edibles include baked goods, candies, mints, oils, cannabutter, and  some random things like soups, sauces and other. The second most popular edible is chocolate as its fatty content allows it to be absorbed better. Edibles take from 30 to 90 minutes from the time you consume. The reason is the way it is processed by the body. It is advised to wait until you can actually feel the effects before deciding to add more.

While the effects of consuming edibles takes longer to kick in, the feeling also lasts hours longer than smoking cannabis. Like vapes, they have a no smell which is a nice, discreet benefit. And they are easy to transport and store.

Photo by Sarah Pender/Getty Images

Gummies

According to BDSA, an analytical company which covers cannabis, 49% of people who consume cannabis have done a gummy.  Easy to carry and having no smell, they are good for a quick take. Usually in a 5 mg, you can microdose or manage a low level high.  Like most edibles, they take between 20-60 minutes to kick in. Although Wana Brands have premiered Calm which is suppose to hit in under 15 minutes.

RELATED: Marijuana Dabs 101: A Guide to Your First Time

Sublingual

This refers a cannabis-based substance consumed by the placement under the tongue and includes tinctures, sprays, tablets and strips. It has rapid absorption rate with consumers feeling it within 15 minutes.

Beverages

With beer and liquor companies in the marijuana industry, there is a whole slew of cannabis beverages on the market.  Beer like, juices and other flavors are all available. Like other edibles, this can take between 15-60 minutes to take effect.  This is one area were hemp beverages have rivaled marijuana in potency.

Concentrates

Also known as wax, shatter, dabs and more, this form is not for the beginner. It normally contain extraordinarily high THC levels ranging from 40 to 80 percent THC amounts. This can be up to four times stronger in THC content than high grade or top shelf marijuana, which normally measures around 20 percent THC levels.  When consumed through this method,the user can feel the effects immediately.

And

Cannabis suppositories are mainly used by medical patients. Cannabis has been found to be effective at reducing pain, and cannabis suppositories can provide fast-acting relief for menstrual cramps and other types of pelvic pain.

Finding a preferable method to consume cannabis is always a personal choice.

Marijuana MicroDosing Can Improve Mundane Tasks

Some things in life can’t be avoid – and seem to suck the fun out of a day…but maybe a little cannabis can help!

Mowing the grass, brainstorming, exercise, and other everyday tasks just seem to suck the life out of a day – especially the precious weekend Saturday and Sundays. Not only are they mundane, but they have to be done…over and over again over the course of your life. What about making them more fun, engaging and pouring some happiness into every day tasks? Marijuana microdosing can improve mundane tasks to the point of enjoyment.

RELATED: The Most Popular Marijuana Flavors

Microdosing cannabis may be a beneficial way to achieve a relaxed, yet focused high. The sativa strain tends to energize and uplift and can place you into a state of timelessness, effortlessness, euphoria, and single-minded focus. Microdosing cannabis can help boost creativity, mood and productivity.  Consider about 2.5 mg to start – which is about half a gummy or a puff or two from a vape.

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Household Chores

From laundry and folding clothes to cleaning the fridge, these are must do activities to facilitate day to day life.  Sometimes mindless, it is easy to slip into boredom trying to match an endless supply of socks or cleaning the oven.  A little sativa can add not only energy but a bit of creativity in these tasks.  You might be startled by how vacuuming can become fun!

Outdoor Chores

Mowing the grass goes down as the more boring job.  Around 76% report their lawn is mowed at least every other week. What a dull routine and pattern, add in edging, weeding and other garden task and you can find yourself in a bi-weekly loop of boredom. Pop a gummy and you reimagine your garden again and again.  The same for washing and cleaning the car or garage. And you end with a strong sense of satisfaction.

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Exercise

Some people do not get the natural home people who enjoy physical activity enjoy. Some see it as a health or physical appearance reason and it can be a little dull.  Trendmills, stationary bikes, walks, runs and more tend to be a set period of time which can get a bit dull day after day.  Maybe mix it up with a little cannabis and put a little pep into the set.

Additionally, cannabis has been proven to have properties that not only aid in the recovery from working out, but also in the actual performance of certain activities. Studies have shown the plant’s ability to decrease anxiety and act as a bronchodilator increasing airflow to the lungs. Moreover, as one study found, “cannabinoids are potent anti-inflammatory agents.”

Brainstorm

Whether you’re writing a book, managing work project for your team at work, or organizing  your family or friend life, the ability to think strategically and creatively is critical to being productive. Sometimes you can get stuck in a rut, a little time, weed, and space allows you a fresh, creativity perspective.  While 80% may not work – 20% might be something you can build which could make life better.

RELATED: People Who Use Weed Also Do More Of Another Fun Thing

For some, consuming weed allows the brain the work in a different mechanism, fueling creativity and crashing through any persisting roadblocks. So the next time you are stuck, try stepping away for a few minutes to imbibe and return to the situation with a new perspective.

Studying


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There’s no excuse for not taking advantage of the plethora of high quality free education available online these days. Whether you’d like to learn more about computer science or classic literature, the tools are online and in some cities in person.

5 Best Ways to Break The Doomscrolling Habit

It is hard to avoid some of the negative news lately, but too much can be rough for you…here is some help to not get trapped with Doomscrolling

In the past, it was fairly easy to avoid constant bad news.  But in today’s tech  media world, it is difficult. Not only do you have legit news companies, you have clickbait and it seems tons of people feel to share their every thought on everything on social media.  What happened to sharing happy cat photos? Getting trapped in the rabbit hole of doomscrolling can truly mess with your mind.

Doomscrolling is getting trapped in scrolling bad news and not able to break away. Constant or frequent doomscrolling can wreck havoc on your mental health and/or your mood.  It reinforces negative thoughts and feelings. If you already trend toward depression or anxiety or are working through a mental health issue, it can exacerbate the issue.  Doomscrolling can increase these issue far beyond expectations. Often it lead to irritability, lack of productivity, poor concentration and mental fatigue.

Here are the 5 best ways to break the dommscrolling habit.

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Set boundaries

Some people want to see the news, what’s happening and just browse online. The issue is when the boundaries are ignored and you spend large amounts of time in a negative space.  In addition, with algorithms, you are fed more pieces around your focus. Thus, the more bad news you read, the more you will receive. It can make it seem there is nothing doom news.  It is important to set boundaries. Set a limit to scroll news for 20 minutes and look at at least X articles on positive/interesting news during the period.  At first it may seem hard, but it will help with perspective and change up your feed.

Seek good news

If you’re having a tough time staying away from social media, make sure you engage in positive things whenever you’re scrolling. Follow happy, interesting, enlightening accounts which lift you up and puts you in touch with things you enjoy. Start following your hobby or passion.  There seems to be an endless supply on Lego, cooking, pets and more online.

RELATED: 5 Tips That Can Help You Start Meditating Successfully

Limit triggers

If politics are making you anxious, try blocking these topics for a time, at least until you’re in a better headspace to consume them. Use all of the tools at your disposal – block push notifications, mute people who get intense on social media and avoid topics which rile you. One effective method of filtering out news is to subscribe to a newsletter and use it as your main source of information.

RELATED: 8 Ways to Enjoy Marijuana Without Smoking It

Socialize

Live interaction can totally change your mood. Even a 5 minute call or a short walk can lift your spirits and improve your mental health. The interaction engages parts of your mind which can calm your anxiety.  Talking with a live friend promotes a sense of belong and security and helps balance your

Meditate

If you’re feeling too caught up in negative feelings and need something to recenter yourself, try meditating. Use a guided app and disconnect from screens for a session which hopefully makes you feel present and can prevent you from going to an anxious place.

The Best 6 Ways To Increase Creativity At Work

You spend 40 hours there most weeks..why not have fun and make a difference.

Work is part of most people’s life, and some days it can be a chore. But finding a way to make it interesting and engaging can make a huge life difference. Globally, people who enjoy their work are also more likely to be thriving in their lives. Getting creative helps you find way to keep your brain engaged and satisfied. Finding fresh or different ways accomplishing things tends to be personally rewarding. Here are the best 6 ways to increase creativity at work.

RELATED: 5 Morning Activities To Help You Feel Happier

Even in a remote job, or one where you work from home or in a car, creativity inspires employees to work with each other. The creative process encourages collaboration. Continuous learning encouraging people to seek new information, knowledge and different ways to do things.  Many unique ideas come from a person but they are developed by a team to become fully formed. With the ability to think creatively and outside of the box, people are more likely to come up with unique and innovative solutions to obstacles they encounter.

5 Ways To Prevent Your Electronic Device From Overheating
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Take time to think

Even with mundane tasks, there are ways to make it better.  Carve out 5-10 minutes in a walk or taking a break to think about ways to improve you tasks or at least make them more enjoyable.  As you daydream about possiblities or consider outside the box ideas, you are more likely to come up with unique and innovative solutions to problems.  Don’t be afraid of asking questions – frame them with “How did this start”.

Don’t be afraid to fail

One of the biggest hurdles to success is a fear of failure. Every person who has improved their job or built something and then gone on to bigger and better things has failed. If you think something could work, talk with you manager and explain the pluses and minuses and then try to give a go.  You will learn about problem solving and yourself.

Brainstorm more often

We brainstorm ideas constantly, whether we’re alone or with others, sometimes without even noticing it. One small upgrade to make brainstorm sessions more efficient is to add a whiteboard, a notepad or someplace where you can pin ideas down, even if they sound silly or unorthodox. This list doesn’t need to be perfect, it just needs to reflect your ideas so you won’t forget about them.

Follow through on your ideas

While ideas are great, it’s also important to follow through. Find a way of holding yourself accountable, whether by writing it down and pinning it on your board or, in a more extreme move, discussing your idea with your boss and eliminating escape routes. Do what works for you, but remind yourself that it’s often very easy to avoid disrupting your workload by sticking to what works, which can make you feel bored and uninspired.

RELATED: 5 Ways To Schedule Your Day When Working From Home

Shake things up

When working a 9 to 5 job, it’s common for people to find a groove and stick to it. This is good, because it means that you know how to do your job and are comfortable in managing the everyday challenges of your positions. But it’s also something that holds a lot of people back, stopping them from trying out new activities and approaches that can be more fulfilling and result in better work. Don’t be afraid to speak up in your meetings and to pitch your ideas. The more you do it, the more comfortable you’ll become and the more your presence will be valued.

Go for a walk

Outdoor walks, where you get to see and smell the beauty of nature, are some of the most useful routines when channeling creativity, especially if you’ve been spending most of your time working indoors. Ideas can come from the most random interactions and things, especially if you’re actively on the lookout for them and are ready to engage with the world in different ways.

Can CBD Help With An Overactive Bladder

Having to “go” frequently is an issue which causes multiple problems….can CBD help?

From watching a movie, going to live sports or performances to car trip, the frequent need to go can disrupt day to day life in big and little ways. Over 33 million Canadians and Americans live with overactive bladder disease (OAB).  While not as life-threating as other issues, it can make like miserable.  Having OAB, or spastic bladder, is so big over $3 billion is spent annually trying to help those who suffer. The two key medicines often prescribed have rough side effects, so can CBD help with an overactive bladder?

RELATED: Does Smoking Marijuana Decrease The Development Of Bladder Cancer?

Symptoms include frequent urination (8+ times in 24 hours) and a a sudden hard to control urge to go.  Another is getting up more than twice in the night to head to the bathroom. It is normal to go once a night in your 40s and 50s, twice a night in your 60s and 70s and even two to three times a night in your 80s and beyond. But waking up too often in the night can keep you from getting enough sleep and is sometimes a sign of a health condition.

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Photo by Anderson Rian via Unsplash

CBD can help in certain situations.  Aside from the natural aging process, causes of OAB including menopause, an enlarged prostate, neurologic disease and smoking.  Short term causes can include drinking too many fluids, caffeine, and spicy foods.  CBD can help in some of the root issues.

CBD can have an impact on the signals between your brain and bladder. If it’s a signaling disconnect (neurologic) causing the detrusor muscle to spasm and contract erratically, cannabinoids may help reduce the number of misfires that make your bladder run on overdrive.

RELATED: How Medical Marijuana Helps With Overactive Bladder

Researchers have found the body has receptors for the cannabinoids CB1 and CB2 in the brain and bladder, as well as in other parts of the body. CB1, and to a lesser extent CB2, work at various levels on the detrusor muscles. Research is pointing toward the conclusion that CB1 receptors do have an impact on urination, and their manipulation with cannabinoids from marijuana has promise for treating OAB.

CBD can help regulate the body’s inflammatory response and reduce neuroinflammation, thus reducing the need to go. Neuroinflammation, in particular, is associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) and Parkinson’s disease. These conditions can involve an increased risk of overactive bladder.

It is always wise to work with a trained health care provider on frequency and dosage amounts.

Marijuana Dosing For The First Half Of The Week

Monday through Wednesday tends to be a bear before the sweet promise of the weekend – but how to chill without a hangover or adding extra to the belly.

It was common and part of the American myth, guys would come home after work and pop a beer.  Or stop by their “local” for a quick one before heading to the house. But the world has changed and more people are concerned about weight, calories and health impacts. A survey by the American Heart Association found millennials, more than previous generations, are more likely to engage in healthy behaviors, such as regular exercise and maintaining a healthy diet. In addition, Gen Z seems to be the first generation to slowly move away from alcohol, and a portion are moving to marijuana.

RELATED:  Are You Really Ready To Try THC-P

Thanks to anecdotal and hard data, there is now a slow trend where after work instead of a grabbing a beer, people are taking a puff or popping a gummy.  Same relaxation, but with less side effects. But what should be the marijuana dosing for the first half of the week? It is important you don’t rely on anything every day to relax.  To do so could be a sign of addiction. But if you are want a quick, after work cool down.  Here are some suggestions.

cannabis vape
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Consider vaping, gummies or tinctures. These vehicles are easy to consume and you don’t have to commit to a big dosage.   A couple of hits on the vape while unwinding should be enough to release the tension while doing Monday stuff. The same line goes with gummies and tinctures.

RELATED: The Most Popular Marijuana Flavors

A suggested dosage of marijuana for a low key chill is between 5-7.5 milligrams (mg).  A study revealed participants who received 7.5 mg. of THC reported less stress after the psychosocial test than those given a placebo, and stress levels dissipated faster after the test.  This would equal a couple of dose on a vape or about 1.5 gummies.  (with gummies having a bout 5 mg of THC).

Alcohol sales, a predictor of use, shows the first half of have low sale but by Thursday it is has jumped 2.5X. Marijuana should follow in the same footprint.

 

Can Pollen Allergies Be Helped By Cannabis

Pollen season is here and people’s head and noses are clogged and miserable…can cannabis help?

Over 100 million people in the US and Canada have to deal with seasonal allergies. As spring starts and flowers and plants bloom, noses start their annual running.  More than $13.4 billion was spent in 2021 on people seeking relief from the sniffling and sneezing. Typical symptoms including congestion, sneezing, itchy eyes, nose and throat, runny nose and eyes, and post nasal drip. But can pollen allergies be helped by cannabis?  It sort of depends.

RELATED: This Is Why Cannabis Is So Effective At Easing Inflammation

While pollen is a generally an issue when it warm…it can go from spring to fall. For many  this means February onwards for tree pollen, followed by grass pollen, then ragweed in the later summer and autumn. While more research can be done, for a portion of those afflicted, marijuana may help.

green grass field under white sky during daytime

Marijuana is known to be anti-inflammatory and it seems marijuana can lower histamine levels in the body. This suppresses the immune system’s allergic response to pollen and other allergens. By reducing inflammation, marijuana may be able to open up airways and provide relief similar to over-the-counter allergy medications, but without some of the side effects.  In addition, for some, it can be a sleep aide to help get over the loss of sleep/fatigue hump.

However, it’s important to note that marijuana itself can also act as an allergen for some people. The pollen-rich cannabis plant may trigger allergic reactions in those with sensitivities, leading to symptoms like congestion, watery eyes, and itchy nose. There is also a risk of cross-reactivity, where people allergic to things like trees, weeds, or latex may experience reactions to hemp or cannabis products.  If you plan to try cannabis to help, consider gummies as way to consume the distilled plant.

For those exploring marijuana to help, pay attention to actually benefits you may receive.. While it may provide relief for some, marijuana is not a one-size-fits-all solution for seasonal allergies. As with any new treatment, it’s important to work closely with a healthcare provider to find the best approach.

Toast 4/20 With A THC Infused Mocktail

Want to celebrate 4/20 with friends out and about – what about toasting with a THC infused mocktail?

It is the high holiday of marijuana use.  You want to go out and have some fun, so why not toast 4/20 with a THC infused mocktail? Friday and Saturday are the busiest night at bars and sometimes you want something other than a vape or a gummy – so why not have a “cannabis mocktail”?  This way you can indulge with your friends, have a little sugar in your system and chill out.

RELATED: Celebrate With These Simple Classic Cocktails

Non alcoholic cocktails – called the mocktail have been around since the 1860s with the temperance movement. The craft cocktail movement has spurred the cocktail renaissance, characterized by a revival and re-prioritization of traditional recipes and methods in the bar industry.  So why not do what you love and be part of the movement also?

cannabis cocktail
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The easiest way is to add a THC tincture to the mocktails while the staff aren’t looking.  Simply stop at your local dispensary and pick one up. Find something with a bland flavor so it will go with whatever you order. When looking for a mocktail, consider drinks with strong flavors and a little extra ice.  Remember, it will take 15-30 minutes at least for it to kick in (like a real cocktail), so don’t drink too quickly.

RELATED: How To Be Discreet When Using Weed

You can also make your own marijuana simple syrup. It is bit involved but it’s still nothing too crazy if you love creating. You’ll need issome combination of water, fine granulated sugar, vegetable glycerine, marijuana, a bottle or jar, and cheesecloth. If the marijuana is baked before hand in order to encourage decarboxylation if can make a different. There is a bit of trial and error based on the strength of the plant used.

In 1971, 4/20 was born as a code word when five Californian high school students used to to connect.  They had a a treasure map to help them find an abandoned cannabis crop. Since them it has become a universal term used for weed and the date is biggest cannabis day of year.

The Best Tips On How To Avoid Weekend Couchlock

Nothing like kicking back on the weekend – but there is a fine line between chilling and couchlock

Many a Saturday has been spoiled by too much fun on a Friday night.  Hangovers have been a weekend curse for generations. While it is fun to let loose, if you go to far it can spoil part of the weekend.  With marijuana mainstreaming, it is easy to enjoy Friday night after a busy work work and totally relax, but too sometimes you can have too much of a good thing and boom – couchlock!

RELATED: Hangover? Here’s How To Stop It Before It Strikes

Couchlock is a term used to describe a particular state of intense physical relaxation, a stoned feeling, and impaired movement control. This occurs as a result of using certain cannabis strains. It is an experience in which someone feels so overwhelmingly relaxed they literally feel glued to the couch or chair where they are sitting. It becomes mentally difficult to get up or move freely. Here are tips on how to avoid couchlock.

Photo by Wokandapix via Pixabay

Know yourself  You know your tolerance so dose correctly to get to where you want.  Be careful about going bit. Remember it takes a little while for the full effects to kick in so stay patient during the process. It’s easy to over consume if you don’t wait until the peak of your high. If you are prone to couchlock, dial back your indica use and go with a blend or a sativa.

Drink your juice – Drink your juice Shelby has been a meme for yearsIf you are finding yourself nodding off on the couch, consider grabbing a sugary soft drink, energy drink or sweet snack. Sugar-loaded treats are brimming with glucose, which will give you a boost of insulin and energy. Juice, sugar sodas, a milkshake are all good.

Eat – Like drinking, it is always better to start with something on your stomach. Food will help stave off some of the most ardent impacts of weed. Food helps the body as it processes and absorbs the chemicals that you’ve ingested. And it might keep from the munchies if you are already full.

RELATED: What Is California Sober

Move – Couchlock sneaks up on you as you are relaxed and not moving.  Don’t let your body get too comfortable avoid succumbing to the sedative qualities of weed. A quick walk, dance to great music or just change locations – living room, kitchen, dining table can make a bigger impact than you might think. Fresh air can make a difference allowing you stay a bit more alert.

Talk – Making your brain engaging in a little conversation, especially something you enjoy can make a big difference.  Find a friend and enjoy a nice convo while letting your mind open up!  Just don’t overpromise while excited.

Have a great weekend and enjoy yourself.

 

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