We’ve all had a holiday (or more than one!) that’s full of undue anxiety. The rushing around, financial burden and all that “family time” can really do a job on your nerves. We’ve got a few tips for reducing stress but our main objective in this article is to show how CBD can help reduce anxiety during the holidays and EVERY day thereafter.
Keep Stress at Bay During Holidays
Mayo Clinic just released their list of tips for how to reduce anxiety and depression during this particular holiday season. We’ve shared our thoughts on the matter below.
- Acknowledge your feelings – Things aren’t easy right now so don’t try to fake it. Sharing your feelings can help you work out those feelings of dread during what should be a happy time.
- Reach out – Even if you must sonically distance, call, text or FaceTime with a friend or family member. Connection is so important, especially now.
- Be realistic – The holidays probably won’t be perfect or just like last year. But although your holiday plans may look different in 2020, you can find ways to celebrate. Give yourself a break and limit your expectations!
- Set aside differences – As always, set aside grievances until after the holidays. There is always a more
appropriate time for heated discussions. - Stick to a budget and cut down on spending- Has there ever been a more perfect time to NOT give expensive gifts or send fancy holiday cards? Sharing heartfelt good wishes instead of actual “things” is very 2020. Donating to a charity in someone’s name, giving homemade gifts or starting a “one gift” Secret Santa exchange is a perfect alternative.
- Plan ahead – This one is kind of easy this year as “popping in” and last minute meet-ups aren’t on the menu. But schedule Zoom calls with friends and family. Anticipation will add to the holiday spirit.
- Learn to say no – Give yourself a break. If you need space and time, take it.
- Don’t abandon healthy habits- Don’t let the holidays become an absolute free-for-all. Overindulgence and lack of self-control only adds to feelings of stress and guilt.
- Seek professional help if you need it – Most everyone could use a helping hand and those who suffers from anxiety and depression are no exception. Now is the time to talk to your doctor or a mental health professional to aid with coping.
- Take Your Daily CBD! – Ok, we added that one. But we mean it. Let’s talk about how CBD can help you keep anxiety at bay.
appropriate time for heated discussions.CBD for Calm
Anxiety comes in many different shapes and forms, but it can drastically alter the quality of a person’s life regardless. Some of the ways that anxiety manifests include:
- Generalized anxiety disorder.
- Panic disorder.
- Social anxiety disorder.
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder.
- Post-traumatic stress disorder.
Environmental stress or general anxiety are two of the main reasons many people take CBD. Outside influences,
especially during holidays, can take a toll even on the most even-tempered and calm individuals. CBD is also used by countless who suffer from general anxiety.
Adding CBD to a daily routine helps in the moment but also, over time, users usually feel an overall decrease in stress and apprehension. Indeed, many people who suffer from anxiety use CBD in addition to prescribed anxiety and/or depression prescription medications. NOTE – Always speak to your doctor before beginning a CBD regimen if you’re currently taking prescription medication for anxiety or depression.
The Endocannabinoid System and Anxiety
But, you may ask, what is the science behind why and how CBD is so effective?
CBD works by interacting with the human Endocannabinoid System (ECS), the system in the body responsible for promoting and maintaining homeostasis. The ECS is commonly referred to as the “master regulator” within the body and plays a huge part in the coordination of numerous bodily processes.
According to research, part of the endocannabinoid system is a signaling system within the brain that acts to control neurotransmitter release. The expression of the endocannabinoid system in the limbic regions of the brain causes it to have control over emotional behavior, mood and stress response.
Research shows that a “growing body of evidence unequivocally demonstrates” that disruptions in endocannabinoid signaling could result in depressive and anxious behavioral responses. It also suggests that manipulating endocannabinoid signaling, as with the consumption of CBD, can cause an anxiolytic (a reduction in anxiety) response.
CBD and the ECS working together
Researchers believe that supplementing the body’s natural endocannabinoids with CBD can ultimately help reduce anxiety and promote a state of homeostasis within the ECS. This could explain why countless users have reported a considerable supply of health benefits when adding cannabinoids like CBD (or THC for full-spectrum users) to their daily routines.
What does the research say about CBD?
Due to CBD’s rising popularity, a number of studies have examined it as a treatment for anxiety.
- This study showed that CBD reduced anxiety and discomfort during public speaking in people with social anxiety disorder.
- This study found that CBD reduced anxiety symptoms in people with social anxiety disorder.
- A This recent review of 49 studies found evidence that “strongly supported” CBD as a treatment for generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- A study in 2019 used CBD to treat people who were struggling with anxiety and sleep. Almost 80% of people’s anxiety improved, and almost 70% reported improved sleep in the first month, but the results for sleep varied over time.
anxiety disorder.While there is much more research to be undertaken, the data we have thus far is encouraging to say the least.
THC, the ECS and Anxiety
At Purelix Wellness we offer THC-free CBD products as a treatment for anxiety. Why do we focus on “broad spectrum” or THC-free CBD only? Here’s why:
THC is the psychoactive element found in the cannabis plant and provides the feeling of “high” associated with marijuana use. When it enters the body THC interacts with your ECS by binding to receptors, just like endocannabinoids and is particularly powerful because it can bind to both CB1 and CB2 receptors.
This allows it to have a variety of effects on your body and mind, some more desirable than others. While THC may help to reduce pain and stimulate your appetite it can also cause additional paranoia and anxiety.
Although scientists are currently studying ways to produce synthetic THC cannabinoids that interact with the ECS in only beneficial ways, Purelix Wellness has chosen to offer CBD products that are THC-free so the possible harmful effects of THC aren’t an issue. Our products offer all of the benefits of the cannabinoids with no chance of undesirable side effects.
How much CBD should I take to treat my anxiety?
Let’s first use our lowest strength oil containing 225mg CBD oil as an example. The bottle is 30ml, meaning each 1ml dropper contains 7.5mg of CBD. If you were just starting out with CBD, this might be a good option for you.
It follows that someone who already uses CBD and has determined that a larger serving size is best for them might purchase a higher strength oil. Our most powerful oil contains 1350mg of CBD. The bottle is 30ml, 
meaning each 1ml dropper contains 45mg of CBD. In this case, taking two 1ml droppers would provide 90mg of CBD, which could be considered a “high” strength of CBD oil. One dropperful would satisfy those looking for a medium strength.
Another thing to keep in mind is cost. More potent CBD oil is more expensive than a lower strength oil but can be more cost efficient in the long run. This depends on all of the factors mentioned above and, over time, you’ll figure out your sweet spot.
Bottom Line
There has never been a better time to begin using CBD to reduce the stress and anxiety you’re feeling. There is plenty to look forward to in 2021. Why not start the year off with a calmer, happier outlook with the help of Purelix Wellness? The future is bright!
