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The Best Tips To Stay Calm And Avoid An Anxiety Spiral

Anxiety happens to everyone, but more and more are struggling to get it under control…here are some helpful tips.

Anxiety and stress is a factor of life, but for some, anxiety can be more frequent and last longer. It can disrupt day to day life and cause issues long past the actual reason for the anxiety. Roughly 40 million adults in North America have an anxiety disorder.  And for the first time, the new generation of Gen Z is suffering higher anxiety even though all studies show we live in a safer world.  There are way to help prevent it, but sometimes it creeps up and wham, you are in the moment and don’t know what to do.  Here are the best tips to stay calm and avoid an anxiety spiral.

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It can be hard to pinpoint the moment when anxiety gets of out control, which is why anxious people sometimes find themselves going through different scenarios in their heads, each one more unlikely than the next, yet all equally distressing.  There are certain actions to take to minimize the stress level.

Deep breaths

Deep breathing — or diaphragmatic breathing — can help manage anxiety since an early symptom of spiraling is shallow breathing. Deep breaths, especially ones pulled from the diaphragm, will oxygenate the body and ground you in the present.

To learn how to use your diaphragm for breathing, put a hand on your chest and a hand on the stomach and start taking deep breaths. The hand on your stomach should move with each breath, while the hand on your chest should remain relatively static. Try these breathing techniques whenever you’re anxious.

Do a physical chore

If you’re feeling anxious and jittery, try completing a physical chore, like cleaning the dishes, mowing the lawn or organizing your closet. These tasks allow a brief escape from your thoughts, creating some distance between yourself and the story that your brain is working so hard to tell you. Additionally, the actual act of cleaning and decluttering can boost your mood, help you move your body more, improve focus, and help you feel more in control of your surroundings.

netflix reveals most watched tv shows and movies
Photo by Pinho . via Unsplash

Distract yourself

Depending on the type of anxiety, try other types of distractions, like watching a movie or listening to music. If you need something more engaging to keep your thoughts from running away from you, try playing a video game with headphones on. Video games require the use of the you to use your body and your brain simultaneously, which is why so many people find them as ideal distractions.

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CBD

CBD has greater anti-inflammatory properties than THC, so CBD-dominant products could reduce anxiety by quelling inflammation in the brain and nerves. While more research needs to be done, there is evidence pointing towards a calming effect for CBD in the central nervous system.

Try staying present

Experiment with different methods that help you stay in the moment, whether that’s  closing your eyes or contracting and releasing your muscles. These techniques are very common for keeping you grounded and in the moment, something that can put a stop to anxious thoughts that are keen to distance you from what’s going on right now.

benefits of weed journaling
Photo by Thomas Martinsen via Unsplash

Monitor your thoughts

Keeping track of your thoughts can help prevent anxiety spirals by learning what your trigger points are. Try to pay attention to your moods. Are you feeling irritated? Did someone else’s behavior stress you out? Noticing how you’re feeling in the moment will allow you to find what triggers your anxiety. Tracking behaviors is a very common and helpful thing to practice, allowing you to know yourself better and to avoid any sneak attacks by your feelings.

Marijuana-Infused Water To Beautify And Medicate

This is like whipped cream and cookies – it takes enjoyment to a new level – and can reduce stress…

Spas are a $21+ billion in US and Canada not to mention all the home spa candles, music, etc. Everyone needs a little me time and it doesn’t take to much to covert a regular space to an escape from the anxiety of life.  And what better way to relax than add a little marijuana-infused water to beautify and medicate.

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Cannabis in water can make a difference both mentally and physical. Mental it can help you chill and relax and lose yourself in the moment of bliss.  From a beauty view, it can help with moisturization and hydration. It is also a natural anti-inflammatory property calm skin irritation, redness, and inflammation. Cannabis also contains antioxidants to help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals and environmental stressors.

Here is some DIY recipes to turn your home into you own person relaxation station.

Photos by Maria Penaloza

Spa Spritz

      • 1 cucumber
      • Rosewater Honey Water
      • Cannabis infused glycerin tincture*

Photos by Maria Penaloza

Optional additives :

      • Hyaluronic acid
      • Omega 7 sea buckthorn oil
      • Collagen
Photos by Maria Penaloza

First skin the cucumber, then blend into a juice using either a juicer, muddler or blonder. If you’re using a blender or muddler add water to help get the nutrients (and liquid) out.

RELATED: Make Your Own Marijuana-Infused Massage Oil Candles

Photos by Maria Penaloza

Add a splash of hot water to some honey to turn it into a quick syrup. Once dissolved add cannabis tincture and mix well. Add cannabis honey syrup to a glass with ice. Pour cucumber juice over ice, add a splash of rosewater, close jar and shake. If you are adding other supplements, add before shaking phase.

Photos by Maria Penaloza

Pour cold still or sparkling water over the mixture, garnish with strips you peeled off the cucumber and some slices with the skin on.

Photos by Maria Penaloza

*Glycerin Cannabis tincture:

In an oven safe container double sealed with foil, decarboxylate 3.5 grams finely ground cannabis at 225 degrees Fahrenheit. Put cannabis in a mason jar or vacuum sealed bag, pour over 2 oz vegetable Glycerin and seal tightly. Place in a water bath at just under boiling for 1 hour. Strain and keep contents in a sterilized container. Stores indefinitely in freezer.

Photos by Maria Penaloza

Try sipping this while holed up in the tub, it will change your experience dramatically. Now you can be high while you kick back and work on your face all in one simple drink. Not to mention it tastes light, fragrant, and incredible.

Photos: Maria Penaloza 

Key Differences Between Gummies And Joints

There is a big change in consumer behavior…here is some key information it things involve.

With the mainstreaming of marijuana, alcohol is taking a dip in use.  Gen Z are embracing the trend of California sober and all generations are taking a second look at cannabis. The American Medical Association and the College of Physicians have recognized cannabis has medical benefits, and a significant portion of users are using it for anxiety and sleep. Microdosing has become a thing to help people manage stress, focus, and more.

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But how people consume has evolved, so has how they have consumed.  Traditionally, people smoke a joint, or a bong or bowl.  Homemade edibles were popular, but not nearly as used as inhaling.  With with legal marijuana, come reliable, flavorful products which have captured the public’s eye – and wallet.  And gummies and vapes are discreet, on-the-go ways to consume with the added benefit of discretion.  In data collected from BDSA, a leading analytical firm who covers cannabis, shared 49% of those who have used marijuana have used a gummy.

While both edibles and flower contain THC, the highs they produce are not exactly the same. Here are the key differences between gummies and joints.

Photo by SageElyse/Getty Images

THC

THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the chemical responsible for most of marijuana’s psychological effects. It is one of many compounds found in the resin secreted by glands of the marijuana plant.  It acts much like the cannabinoid chemicals made naturally by the body, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA).  Cannabinoid receptors are concentrated in certain areas of the brain associated with thinking, memory, pleasure, coordination and time perception. THC attaches to these receptors and activates them and affects a person’s memory, pleasure, movements, thinking, concentration, coordination, and sensory and time perception, according to NIDA.

RELATED: How To Make Your Edibles Taste Less Like Weed

Dosage

With over 50% of the population having access to legal dispensaries, the difficult guess from homemade treats are over. Retail purchased gummies usually have 10mg. Microdosing usually is 2.5-5 mg, so you might want to consider a half if you are a newbie.

Smoking can vary based on the strengthen of the flower and how much you inhale. Dispensary purchased pre-rolled joints usually give an idea of the strengthen, so pay attention to how you are feeling before you toke another time.

Photo by Greg Raines via Unsplash

Timing

Inhaled marijuana takes goes straight to the blood via the lungs. It can take 1 to 15 minutes to kick in, peaking for an hour or so before the effects start to fade. The high can last 6 hours after use.

Edible cannabis has to be digested and metabolized via the stomach then to the liver, so it could take up to an hour to kick in and two hours for the high to peak. The high will fade over the next three hours can last 8-12 hours after use.

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marijuana overdose
Photo by PeopleImages/Getty Images

Effects

Timing, dosage and absorption can provide a different high, so the effects are personal to you. Edibles can sometimes induce a more intense, intoxicating high than smoking. But smoking can provide a longer high with the constant puff, puff, puff.

Trial and error help decide the best method for you.

Pizza Bath Bombs Are The Best Soak Topping

Why not marry to fun things to truly relax?

Nothing comforts the worries of your day like a slice of pizza. The melting cheese and delicious topping coat your mouth with a blanket, telling you it’ll be all right, sweet child. A motherly feel, almost, except without any of the familial baggage. Similar is the experience of a good soak in the tub. Why not combine two wonderful things into one relaxing treat.  Well, now pizza bath bombs are a real!

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It makes sense, the bath bomb industry is worth $24 million annually and millions love a good soak. From muscle relaxation and stress reduction to improved sleep quality and skin health, bathing transcends the ordinary, elevating it to a ritual of self-care and luxury.  Why not combine it with pizza – which is a $250 billion food.  Well, someone has created the pizza bath bomb.

Baths have been used for millennia to not only keep clean, but immerse the body in warm, soapy water, which can slow our heart rates, soften the skin, help to open up pores, and generally just make us feel good.  Bath bombs release minerals and emollients into the soapy warm water to refresh and rejuvenate skin while hopefully helping the bather look and feel great. Fragrant oils are put in them to give aromatherapeutic qualities for the bath time also, helping the body unwind after a long day, release stress, reset and refresh in the warm water.

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Stress can be hard on the body. Stress has been connected to a number of ailments, including:

  • Sore muscles
  • Heart disease
  • Hair loss
  • Acid reflux
  • A weakened immune system
  • Weight gain

Some research studies also suggest that a type of warm bath therapy may have positive effects on people living with depression. Warm baths are linked to decreases in stress hormones and more balanced serotonin levels, which help regulate mood.

Marijuana Is A Big Non At The Paris Olympics

Marijuana is a HUGE no for Olympics athletes – and for guests visiting Paris, it is also a French non (wink wink).

Like most sporting organizations, cannabis use, even for medical reasons, is a big no go for athletes. The Olympics are no exception. While the WADA guidance says they can use the cannabidiol (CBD), athletes are prohibited from consuming any natural or synthetic cannabinoids in the time leading up to a competition. US sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson was dismissed from the Tokyo Olympics because she tested positive. So again, marijuana is a big non at the Paris Olympics. And it is still illegal in France, so for visitors, it is also a big French non (well – wink wink)

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Like most major cites including London, Delhi, Tokyo, and Rome, just because it says on things on the books, doesn’t mean the local population adheres to what it says. The illegal black market is a vast multi-billion industry in most of Europe, most of South America and parts of Asia.  Canada is fully legal and the US is a patchwork with both approved and illicit markets. While traveling aboard with marijuana on you can be spotty, in the country you can usually find it pretty easy. Just be careful and go with you gut on trusting people.

Cannabis use is illegal in France. But like it most countries, marijuana continues to a widely used drug for both recreational and medical reasons.  It is not uncommon in the trendy Maris, at football stadiums or even on the famed Avenue des Champs-Élysées to catch a whiff. And with gummies and vapes, it has blended into the Paris scene with hardly anyone noticing or caring. It is reported the country’s population are among the largest consumers of cannabis worldwide. Possession of cannabis has been somewhat decriminalized in France, with minor offenders potentially being served with fines.

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However, prison sentences of up to one year are still possible for people found in illegal possession of cannabis especially those looking to sell.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) technically has no problem with athletes legally having a few drinks. But of course, the focus is on performance, so drinks would come at the end of the games.

While there is reference to the original games in Ancient Greece, the ones we watch really started in 1896 in Athens and are overseen by the International Olympic Committee.

Has Marijuana Become A Political Football

With almost 90% of the country believing it should be legal in some form, especially among younger voters – who is going to be the party make the goal?

The presidential race is heating up and both parties are grappling with changing demographics and a tight race.  Also, there will be 41 million new Gen Z voters who will be able to participate in the election, and they see things different from boomers.  One big issues is causing heartburn on at least one side….has marijuana become a political football?

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Data shows between 85-89% of the country believe cannabis should be legal in some form.  Florida went against their governor to force recreational marijuana to be on the ballot, and have raised $60 million to the Governor’s team which has raised less than $100,000.  But the biggest issues is Gen Z, the generation who is drifting away from alcohol and toward weed.  To them, it is like buying alcohol and they don’t understand why old politicians are so resistant to what has been proven to a medical aide.  While it is behind voter concerns of the economy, public safety and democracy, it is still will play a role in influencing millions of votes. And the party who gets it across the goal line will be a hero.

The current administration has been slow to make a movement and only in the election year has significant progress been made. Following the recommendations of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the American Medical Association (AMA) and the American College of Physicians (ACP) have used science to encourage the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to follow the process and reschedule cannabis to a Schedule III showing it has medical benefits and is classified like Ibuprofen.  But the late start is hurting as the GOP is throwing up roadblocks as the public (by 90%) and the medical community has taken very public stances.  The Biden administration may have waited too long to secure it before ballots drop.  Vice President Harris, who was a vocal, strong adversary of legalization has revered course and embraced the rescheduling mantle and the potential benefits for patients, veterans and voters.

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The Republicans are pulling out all stops to keep it from passing at all. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-KY), long a critic, has allowed votes to stop the process and allowed members to demand the DEA stop, slow, or delay the process. In a letter sent to Attorney General Merrick Garland and Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra GOP members of the House expressed something fishy is going on for the process to move at the usual pace. Part of the change in policy the overwhelming support of the the major medical associations. The Republicans are pushing a policy which is clearly against the public desire, which is somewhat confusing if you want to win.

In addition, Florida Governor DeSantis, despite received donations from some in the industry, has taken a full frontal attack.  Despite dropping out of the race, DeSantis still likes the spotlight. At a Florida Sheriff’s convention, he spoke on the subject of legal weed and was a bit loose on the facts, especially when it comes to the success is in Colorado.  DeSantis has called voters confused and patiently explained his nanny state philosophy is best and has state the will of the voters should be set aside for his personal beliefs.

The voting public has been showing its will with their purchase power. Already Illionis, a key state, has sold over $1 billion in weed this year. The next 100 days will be critical for the  cannabis industry and for rights of voters.

Take These Car Cocktails For A Spin

Some classic autos need to be honored in a special way – and here is an example with these car cocktails named after some great vehicles.  They definitely will put you on the highway to fun!

Take these car cocktails for a spin. Shift into the highway of fun, flavor, and frolicking with a gin Mercury Cougar and more!

Automobiles raced on the scene in the 1920s and people were fascinated. Cocktails named in their honor followed including the sidecar, the La Mans, and more. What better way to kick back and take a relaxing trip by savoring some of this flavorful concoctions.  Some have faded in and out of menus, but all maintain a place in drink history. This weekend take these car cocktails for a spin.

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Cadillac Margarita

The granddaddy of car cocktails is the Cadillac margarita. A go to when you want the sweet, sour power of tequila and sunshine all in a frosted glass. Its history starts at the Cadillac Bar in Nuevo Lardo, Mexico, but hit the big time thanks to a risque lads magazine. The power concoction appeared in the 1979 Playboy Bartender’s Guide, but its premiumization came by way of cranberry liqueur, not Grand Marnier, which pulled in later.

Ingredients

The Sidecar

The famed drink appeared during WWI at a bar in either London or Paris.  Created in honor of a dashing captain and the sidecar he had on his motorbike. This rich drink with a hint of sour has had its ups and downs, but it still a staple in cocktail bars worldwide.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 ounces cognac
  • 3/4 ounce orange liqueur such as Cointreau
  • 3/4 ounce lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • Garnish with an orange twist

Create

  1. Coat the rim of a martini glass or champagne coupe with sugar, if desired, and set aside
  2. Add the cognac, orange liqueur and lemon juice to a shaker with ice and shake until well-chilled
  3. Strain into the prepared glass
  4. Garnish with an orange twist

The Mercury Cougar

A fun classic drink for weddings, anniversaries or just hanging out, this drink will have you on the highway of fun quickly.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 oz gin
  • 1/2 oz Cointreau
  • 1/2 oz fresh cucumber
  • 1/4 oz simple syrup
  • 2 sprigs of rosemary

Create

  1. Muddle stripped rosemary and simple syrup
  2. Combine ice, gin, cointreau, and cucumber juice, shake well
  3. Strain into cocktail or martini glass
  4. Garnish with rosemary sprig

Ferrari

A great auto deserves a cocktail – and Italy did it right with this delicious simple drink. The bitters combination is made for those who live life in the fast lane.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ oz Fernet-Branca
  • 1 ½ oz Campari

Create

  1. Combine in a mixing glass with ice
  2. Stir for at least 20 seconds
  3. Pour into a chilled glass over ice

Enjoy these classic car cocktail, but be careful getting behind the wheel.

The Best Tips For Beating The Heat In Las Vegas

It is another record breaking hot summer in Las Vegas – here are some ideas to escape the heat in Sin City

Las Vegas is a year round circus on fun…but with record breaking temperatures this summer, it is giving people pause. But Vegas can be enjoyable year round, if you know the right things to do to slip into a cool setting. Of course, hydration, being mindful of day drinking, and not over doing it in when the day hits 110+ are all things to watch in Vegas and in other places who are dealing with unusual weather.

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Las Vegas offers a myriad of chill and exciting places to beat the heat during the scorching summer months. The casinos on and off the Stip are nice and an eager to help you stay comfortable away from the blazing sun.  And another main attraction the city is the shopping, whether for M&Ms or Hermes, the retail scene can fit any budget…even an unlimited one. Here are the best tips for beating the heat in Las Vegas, from insider Michael Stratton, general manager of CANNABITION, an elevated immersive experience, soon to open inside the Planet 13 Entertainment Complex.

Vegas is known for their pools and pool parties. Marquee Dayclub at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas offers a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment. This rooftop pool area features multiple pools, cabanas and daybeds, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Las Vegas skyline. With a lively party scene, top-notch DJs and refreshing cocktails, Marquee Dayclub provides an ideal spot to beat the heat and enjoy the summer vibes.

If you prefer to cool off with some outdoor beach fun, Mandalay Bay Beach is the place to be. This aquatic playground features a wave pool, lazy river and real sand beaches. Lounge in the shade of a cabana, take a dip in the refreshing pools or ride the waves in the wave pool. With plenty of water activities and relaxation options, Mandalay Bay Beach offers a perfect escape from the heat while enjoying some sun and surf.

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Step into a world of Italian elegance at The Venetian’s Grand Canal Shoppes. This indoor shopping and dining destination offers a cool and luxurious escape from the summer sun. Stroll along the cobblestone walkways, enjoy a gondola ride on the indoor canals and explore a variety of high-end boutiques, bars and restaurants. The Venetian’s beautifully designed interiors and soothing ambiance make it an ideal spot to relax and unwind while staying cool.

For a serene and scenic escape, head to Lake Las Vegas. This picturesque lake, located just a short drive from the Strip, offers a variety of water activities such as paddleboarding and kayaking. The surrounding area features lush green spaces, upscale resorts and waterfront dining options, making it an ideal spot to relax and cool off. Spend the day enjoying the tranquil waters, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or dine at one of the lakeside restaurants while taking in the beautiful views. Lake Las Vegas provides a refreshing and peaceful retreat from the summer heat.

Hopefully. the best tips for beating the heat in Las Vegas will allow you to enjoy your trip to Sin City.

Are Women More Sensitive To THC

It does does with alcohol, but does marijuana effect women differently?

While we can put together people in general categories – men, women, Indian, left-handed, each person is slightly  different…and some categories are different than others.  So are women more sensitive to THC in cannabis?  Reactions to alcohol is different between women and men, some South Asians are effected differently than North Americans with alcohol….so what about with cannabis?

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Science shows biological differences in body structure and chemistry lead most women to absorb more alcohol and take longer to metabolize it. After drinking the same amount of alcohol, women tend to have higher blood alcohol levels than men, and the immediate effects of alcohol usually occur more quickly and last longer in women than men.

While more studies need to be done, current ones trend toward women being more sensitive to THC than men.  Meaning they tend to have a bigger reaction to less. Very similar to alcohol.

Medical Marijuana Users Are Happier Than Non-Users, Study Finds
Photo by Elle Hughes via Pexels

One study, published in the journal Psychopharmacology found women who had consumed less of a cannabis, had lower levels of THC in blood, yet experienced the same acute effects as men.  The key take-away is that women may need a lower dose of THC to get to the same degree of intoxication as men. Females tend to progress to tolerance and dependence faster than males after initiation of regular cannabis use.

One theory researchers posed is estrogen, a primarily female hormone, could influence the metabolism of THC. Levels of estrogen could account for the differences spotted in the study and for the reactions that women experience when consuming THC.

RELATED: How Marijuana Affects Men And Women Differently

Most studies are based on male participants, so the data may not hold true in females.” Historically, subjects in animal and human studies. across all of science have been male. Researchers have claimed that it is too difficult to control for the fluctuating hormones in the female body. It is important for physicians and scientists to recognize past studies have excluded females, leaving our understanding of medicine with a bias towards men. With women representing 50% of the population, it is a critical data point.

Physicians And Public Back Rescheduling In a Big Way

After a rough few weeks, the political change might be a help to the cannabis industry

It has been a wild week when it comes to politics and the cannabis industry is holding its breath. The Biden administration made a promise during the 2020 election to move toward  legalization, but didn’t move on it until late 2023, and no real action happened until 2024, a presidential election year. The administration finally asked to reclassify cannabis to Schedule III, similar to Ibuprofen. Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) did they research and clearly stated it provides medical benefits. HHS and FDA back cannabis being but the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has been more cautious. Now, it has been made clear physicians and the public back rescheduling in a major way.

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In a show of support, the American College of Physicians issued a paper showing support of  rescheduling and perhaps more. This follows support from the American Medical Association.  And the DEA received significant feedback from the public during the public feedback session regarding rescheduling.  The questions are will the DEA follow the medical community, the federal peers, and the public with officially rescheduling?

Photo by Megan Varner/Getty Images

In July, the American College of Physicians issued a paper which serves as a statement regarding their view of cannabis moving forward.  In support of rescheduling, the esteemed organization also encouraged more research, decriminalization for small personal amounts, among other things. With over half of Americans living in a state with legal adult use cannabis and three out of four Americans live in a state that has legalized cannabis for medical use, it makes sense.

RELATED: Science Says Medical Marijuana Improves Quality Of Life

The other big notice for the DEA is the feedback, is where the it sits with public opinion. More than 40,000 comments were submitted by various agencies, organizations, academics, and concerned citizens. An overwhelming 91% of comments were submitted in favor of the rescheduling proposal or making it legal under federal law, according to an analysis of the data conducted by Headset. The analysis found that among those supporting a change 56% advocated for complete descheduling of cannabis and 35% supported rescheduling to a less restrictive category.

Now, the decision is in the hands of the DEA, a federal agency which has shown major reluctance in supporting any type of loosening of marijuana restrictions.  It will be on the administration to act.

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