Revisiting Depression: Part Two (the People)
Posted on February 2, 2020 Leave a Comment
Hallo, darlings. We’re back at it today with this depression topic re-visitation. On last week’s exciting episode, we covered the relationship between depression, anxiety, and anger and how they work together in a positive feedback loop to amplify depression. Afterword, not even Dave’s corner cowering could keep us from diving into the somatic symptoms of depression and how pain and depression work together in a… well, a positive feedback loop that can amplify depression. I’m sensing a pattern here. Anyway, on this week’s emotionally unsettling conclusion, we’re finally going to address the social implications of depression and its role in self-worth. *Spoiler alert* We’re looking at another feedback loop.
The reason I wanted to look at anger and pain in relation to depression is to highlight some of the moving pieces working against the depressed. Anger and pain are both negative experiences that one needs to develop proper coping mechanisms for in order to respond appropriately. Let’s look at two different reactions to a scenario:
Scenario: Dave walks into his living room while texting a friend. Attention divided, he stubs his toe (clumsy bastard).
Reaction one (RO): In the 15 seconds after stubbing his toe:
- Dave experiences a burst of pain
- On the heels of that burst of pain, Dave experiences anger
- Dave’s anger increases as he realizes his toe stubbing was a result of him not paying attention
- Because Dave has no one to blame, he feels a bit stupid and embarrassed (regardless of the fact no one is around)
- Dave doesn’t like to feel stupid or be embarrassed—it makes him angry
- In the midst of the pain and anger, Dave comes to the conclusion that it’s the phone’s fault he wasn’t paying attention
- Dave throws his phone
- Dave begins to feel embarrassment about his behavior (still no one around)
- Dave experiences a decrease in his sense of self-worth
Reaction two (RT): In the 15 seconds after stubbing his toe:
- Dave experiences a burst of pain
- On the heels of that burst of pain, Dave experiences anger
- Having stubbed his toe many times before, Dave realizes the pain will subside quickly, so he should just breathe and ride it out
- Dave sits on his couch and continues texting his friend, experiencing no significant changes in mood or sense of self-worth
Obviously, RT is the ideal reaction—the reasonable reaction. If you read RO and thought, “Well, that’s pretty childish,” you’re right! Spot on! Bravo, you! Individuals unable to learn and incorporate proper coping skills when it comes to negative emotions tend to react childishly to things. I think it’s important to point out here that it’s perfectly normal for anyone to have the occasional outburst. Shit happens, you might overreact, but you regroup and move on and that’s that. For someone with depression, it’s not as easy. There’s too much of a cascade effect. One stubbed toe could lead to a multiple-week-long depressive episode. Thankfully, this is an issue that can be eased with behavioral therapy and/or counseling.
When you get real mad, but you’re still cute as hell.
Seeking Value from Without
Before we get down to it, I just want to say that you, whoever you are reading this… You have value.
Our sense of self-worth is based on several things but can (for ease and brevity) be narrowed down to two categories: The value we place on ourselves (inside value) and the value we see others place on us (outside value). Ideally, there would be a balance between the two. For someone with depression, though, more stock is put into outside value. This is why some individuals with depression seek out the company of friends and family during darker times, which can be immensely helpful if the individual is in happy, healthy relationships. On the other hand, self-worth based on outside value can be crippling without those solid, uplifting relationships.
Some individuals relying on outside value, but who lack healthy relationships, tend to exhibit attention-seeking behavior. This is by no means a negative thing—although it can be. Attention seeking behavior can include: positive emotional outbursts, negative emotional outbursts, withdrawing from social situations, acting helpless, being overly helpful, being the center of conversations, and if I list any more we’re going to fall into a larger mental health topic. So, I’ll stop there. Again, these are all pretty normal behaviors when done sparingly, but it becomes problematic when someone exhibits multiple attention-seeking behaviors on a consistent basis. What’s worse is that these attention-seeking behaviors can lead to socially awkward situations, which leads to embarrassment, and… Hey! We’re back to anger! And after anger comes guilt, depression, and a lowered sense of self-worth. And, of course, how you cope (both inwardly and outwardly) with these negative emotions and situations can further devalue your sense of self-worth.
Do you ever watch water drain and think, “Huh… there’s my self-worth.”
On a Bigger Scope
**Please keep in mind that the following is a very generalized breakdown of some social implications of depression and a low sense of self-worth. While the below statements may apply to some (and in varying degrees), they won’t to others. To get more specific, we’d need to look at the different types of depression and how they affect different personality types and what’s chemical vs behavioral and on and on. You get the idea.
Building and maintaining relationships is integral to being a reasonably well-adjusted adult. How you relate to and with others helps dictate the type and quality of people who want to be around you. It also plays a major role in your career. The problem is that your sense of self-worth tends to be evident to others, whether overtly or on a more subconscious level. It’s a bit harder to like and want to be around a person who doesn’t particularly like his/herself. Because it takes more energy to be in any kind of relationship with that type of person, they’ll have fewer relationships and, likely, more contentious ones. Additionally, people with a lower sense of self-worth are more vulnerable to manipulative personalities and have a higher likelihood of ending up in long-term abusive relationships. A person relying on outside value has to be real fuckin’ careful about the company they keep, but they also have to balance how much they rely on others.
One of the biggest relationships in most people’s lives is their job. We spend a lot of time and energy there, and it’s one of the most logical places to find outside value, whether it’s from work friends, acquaintances, bosses, clients, customers, vendors, whomever. Again, it’s totally normal to desire or seek out praise and/or notice at work. But it becomes a problem when you rely too heavily on your place of work for outside value because it becomes exhausting for others. Furthermore, exhibiting attention seeking behaviors could hurt your credibility as a professional and disrupt those around you. This need for notice, the need for outside value, could end up lowering the outside value you receive, and then? Well, then you have a lowered sense of self-worth.
#FeedbackLoopBitches
It’s a Lot
Over the course of this series, we’ve barely scratched the surface of depression in all its un-glory. If you know someone with depression or are just looking to understand more, I hope this helps. For those of you dealing with depression, reach out for help when you need to. Discover ways to increase inside value. Work with a behavioral health specialist. And, please, if you or anyone you know is or may be contemplating harm to themselves or others, get help immediately.
Revisiting Depression: Part One (the Science)
Posted on January 25, 2020 Leave a Comment
Hallo, you fantastic beauties. I haven’t written for myself—or for you—in a long while. But here we are! Together again! Now, ahead of National Condom Month, I want to talk about depression. I’ll wait while you investigate whether that’s an actual thing. The condom part, I mean, not depression.
All joking aside, I’ve been wanting to talk about depression again for a while. The problem lies in how to address something so large and weighted with so many layers. I want to talk about depression in terms of self-worth and social implications, but to get there I feel like we need to walk through the various psychosomatic effects of depression, and to get there we need to touch on the relationship between depression, anxiety, and anger …
Well, fuck, let’s give it a try! What say you, Dave? Dave? Dave, why are you cowering in the corner?! Sorry, guys, I think Dave is going to sit this one out. Let’s dive in, shall we? And, don’t worry, darlings, this will be a two-parter.
But seriously … February is National Condom Month. Suit up.
The Fanning of the Flame
(or if you’re southern: Adding a Little Lighter Fluid)
If you pop back over to my series on Mood and Anxiety Disorders, you’ll notice that depression and anxiety often go together … But anger? I’ve only recently thought about the relationship between anger and depression, but according to Fredric N. Busch’s article, Anger and Depression, “The oversimplified concept of depression as ‘anger directed inwards’ was a commonly held belief over many years in psychiatry.” Though today anger is more often considered a symptom of depression, there is little denying some type of correlation. Busch goes on to discuss defense mechanisms as applied to the anger-depression relationship. These mechanisms include denial, projection, passive aggression, reaction formation, and identification. Since denial, projection, and (everyone’s favorite) passive aggression are pretty familiar terms, I want to cover the other two in more detail:
- Reaction formation (as presented by Busch citing Freud): The individual denies their anger and instead increases their efforts to help others. Since the underlying issues causing anger aren’t addressed, feelings of rage intensify and can become directed inward, exacerbating depression.
- Identification: The individual links their self-image with someone who is aggressive and has made that person or others feel disempowered, frequently triggering guilty feelings which can exacerbate depression. This mechanism can help the individual with assertiveness, coping with anger, and creating boundaries but also has a lot to do with the idea of perceived power and can lead to abusive and controlling behavior.
While these psychoanalytic mechanisms are dated, more recent studies have also shown a correlation between depression and anger, whether that anger is outwardly expressed or not. According to Depression is More Than Just Sadness: A Case of Excessive Anger and Its Management in Depression: “Previous studies have revealed that patients with anger attacks are significantly more depressed, anxious, and have ideas of hopelessness compared to patients without anger attacks, and they were more likely to meet criteria for [histrionic, narcissistic, borderline, and antisocial] personality disorders in comparison to depressed patients without anger attacks.” The relationship between depression and anger causes a sort of feedback loop wherein anger can lead to depression and depression to anger. And, ultimately—obviously—the Dark Side.
I mean … Hurray for royalty-free images, but damn…
Depression: It’s a Pain in the Ass
Fun fact: not only can depression itself be debilitating, it can also lead to major chronic health issues and be a hindrance to rehabilitation and healing. Okay, okay, so it was a not-so-fun fact. According to Depression and Other Common Mental Disorders: Global Health Estimates released by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2017: “The consequences of [depression and anxiety] disorders in terms of lost health are huge. Depression is ranked by WHO as the single largest contributor to global disability (7.5% of all years lived with disability in 2015); anxiety disorders are ranked 6th (3.4%). Depression is also the major contributor to suicide deaths, which number close to 800,000 per year.” Spoiler alert, the situation hasn’t gotten any better.
Depression can play a role in immune, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal health—among others. According to Depression as a Risk Factor of Organic Diseases: An International Integrative Review, “Depression often predisposes individuals to physical illness and disease.” The review assesses findings from 23 studies that consider depression in relation to various physical illnesses, including cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, anxiety, and asthma. While the review “offers evidence that depression can be a risk factor for physical illness and disease,” even more intriguing is the study of depression-related pain.
Some studies on depression and somatic pain have shown a correlation between the two, although causation proves difficult to identify. In some cases, individuals suffering from depression may experience such issues as low back pain, jaw pain, and acid reflux. While causation is unclear (it’s kind of a “chicken or egg” situation), the Depression as a Risk Factor review states that there is “a strong association […] shown between severe depression and somatization, and the somatic effects of depression were unrelated to organic disease (Aguilar‐Navarro & Avila‐Funes, 2007; Drayer et al. 2005).” If I’m citing something citing something, is that reverse inception? Anyway, the review goes on to say that “depression and pain are independent processes that share a common mechanism that can lead to the onset of each other.” Furthermore, individuals suffering from depression tend to experience a decrease in pain tolerance and increase in origin-less pains.
I almost said “phantom pain,” but I didn’t want to be disrespectful to the Skywalker family members who can’t do this
Next Week’s Titillating Adventure
Now that we’ve covered the relationship between anger and depression and the psychosomatic effects caused by the unholy trinity (just assume anxiety is a habitual lurker), we can dive into the human side next week. While I opted to interview individuals suffering from depression and anxiety for the last series, this time, I want to get into the meat of how depression (and all its accoutrements) can affect an individual’s self-worth and how that might look to the individual’s family, friends, and society in general.
The Use of CBD for Public Speaking
Posted on September 26, 2019 Leave a Comment
This article by Madeleine Taylor was originally published on SundayScaries.
The extreme fear of public speaking is called glossophobia. Yes, it’s actually a phobia. It is a form of social anxiety disorder (SAD). The onset of this phobia often occurs when one is on stage or even when they are simply talking to their own family members or friends (in the most extreme of cases). Many people resort to dealing with this phobia by either avoiding talking completely or being utterly miserable while speaking.
How CBD Can Help with the Fear of Public Speaking
CBD oil is rich in cannabinoids, which bind to certain receptors in the brain. According to a 2011 study, published in Neuropsychopharmacology, the cannabinoid receptors are CB1 and CB2, which play a significant role in the body and are present in our:
- Liver
- Kidneys
- Lungs and other organs
These receptors are tasked with affecting the immune system and blood cell formation. All these make the endocannabinoid system that influences moods, appetite, pain, reproduction, memory, etc.
CB1 receptors are located in the brain, whereas the CB2 is found in the immune system. These locations help the receptors to fulfill their primary function of stress reduction, balanced immunity, neuroprotection, and homeostatic regulation.
CBD rapidly interacts with your body’s cells since it has a similar chemical composition and generates therapeutic effects that return your body to a state of balance.
Cannabidiol in Anti-anxiety Studies
Studies show that the relationship between adenosine and cannabidiol help treat anxiety. Adenosine receptors play the major role in the cardiovascular system and affect the regulation of myocardial consumption of oxygen as well as blood flow.
So, when CBD stimulates the production of adenosine, there exists a rise of dopamine and glutamate neurotransmitters. Dopamine is tasked with motor control, motivation, perception, and reward, while glutamate affects memory, learning, cognition, and excitatory signals. Because of this, some benefits of CBD include helping with anxiety (with no THC side effects) and lowering resistance to anxious responses, which helps in a social setting—and with public speaking.
This 2012 study outlines CBD’s anxiolytic properties, which help with acute anxiety in humans. The study shows that a person with no stress or anxiety administered with CBD does not experience feelings of relaxation; however, administering when there was acute anxiety showed a significant anxiety-reducing effect. Though being efficient in the management of anxiety, there is no commonly accepted dose of CBD meant for treatment. When administered in animals, the result was a bell-shaped dose-response curve with moderate doses of anxiolytic that is lost at high doses.
CBD vs. THC for Anxiety
When looking for the most ideal anxiety management system between the two compounds, CBD is considered legal and non-psychoactive despite both compounds being of benefit to the patient. A number of people with anxiety cannot use THC because it encourages anxiety and an irrational state of mind.
Some findings suggest that THC also has the potential of reducing the onset of neuropathy and can serve as a treatment for insomnia, depression, nausea and appetite loss just as CBD does.
Management of Anxiety Using CBD
There is overwhelming evidence that shows CBD can effectively manage stress and anxiety—including the stress and anxiety that come with the fear of public speaking:
- Acute Stress-Induced Anxiety: A 2017 study of public speaking related anxiety confirmed the bell-shaped CBD dose-response in humans. The study indicated that a 300mg dose of CBD effectively reduces anxiety but a 100mg or 900mg dose cannot.
- THC-Induced Anxiety: It’s worth noting that anxiety caused by THC can be counteracted by CBD at lower doses than the doses needed when managing anxiety from acute stress. For instance, a dose of 15-60mg and 70mg were able to manage anxiety caused by THC, a dose lower than what is required to manage acute stress-induced anxiety.
- Chronic Anxiety: In cases of chronic anxiety, the doses administered are generally lower. This is attributed to the changes in the endocannabinoid system in people with chronic anxiety. No clinical studies have been undertaken to establish a regular dosing regimen for chronic anxiety.
When using CBD oil yourself, doses and effects may differ.
It is recommended that you try low doses of CBD and see how it works first. You can begin with a dose of 10mg to experiment, unlike the huge doses used in studies, 400mg and 600mg, which are high. It’s better to start with a lower dose to learn its effects rather than diving into the unchartered waters of the unknown high doses or potentially wasting your CBD oil altogether.
From the findings, CBD is highly recommended to be administered to persons with social anxiety. CBD showed a significant reduction of anxiety that seen in speech performance discomforts and cognitive impairment. When administered, all these signs decrease and alertness in anticipatory speech decrease is seen.
How to Keep Your Dog Calm During a Storm
Posted on September 20, 2019 Leave a Comment
This article by Jennifer was originally published on FOMO Bones.
Batten down the hatches, draw the curtains—there’s a storm about to hit and the forecast isn’t looking good (especially for Fido). Hiding, whining, scratching, peeing—these are just some of the symptoms of a dog suffering from “Thunder Phobia,” a condition that typically begins between the ages of two and four, and which gets worse over time. But no matter how long your pup’s panic has been in full swing, the following top tips should soon soothe his jangling nerves.
Why are Dogs Scared of Thunder Storms?
Vets and animal behaviorists have studied this topic to the -nth degree, yet there’s still no concrete answer. The consensus is that the noise of the thunder and the flashes of lightning are unpredictable and, to a dog, seemingly come out of nowhere. However, there’s also the complexities of how dogs are hardwired to pick up on changes in air pressure and to hear the super low-frequency rumbles of a storm before it arrives. Another hypothesis is that dogs may even suffer from shocks, as static electric builds up as a thunderstorm approaches. Herding breeds (such as Border Collies) are especially affected, as well as naturally nervy dogs who are anxious in everyday life. Whatever the facts of the matter and actual root cause of their fear, there are tactics that can help. And here they are…
Always be Prepared
First thing’s first—you should always be aware of the forecast if it seems that bad weather is swirling overhead. Getting caught outside in a storm can be incredibly stressful for your dog (and you can multiply that by ten if they also hate getting wet). All in all, it can serve to worsen their already serious fear. Launch into some positive association training with the help of a downloadable thunder storm app or soundtrack. Over the next two weeks, play the storm audio at increasingly louder levels, and while doing so play with your pup and feed him treats. Once you switch off or pause the audio, stop all play and all treats—the point here is to link the sounds of thunder with tail-wagging happy times.
Reward Calmness
You may have trained your dog to sit, lay, and maybe even shake hands. But what about training them to settle down? This isn’t nearly as impossible as it sounds. Simply put on a special “inside” leash and direct your pup to lie at your feet, rewarding him when he follows your instruction. Practicing this routine all year through can ensure that your pup has a reassuringly regular cue to follow, even as the thunderous rumbles begin.
Classic Distraction Techniques
Do as much as possible to lessen the effects of a storm by getting the basics covered—that includes drawing the curtains, having a TV or music on medium-to-loud, and creating a cozy hideaway complete with overhead blankets and plenty of pillows. You should also observe your dog during a storm—is there a place he tries to gain access to, such as a bathroom, office, or basement? If possible, try and prepare this area with his blankets. Over the course of the storm try to keep your pup engaged with treats, training, and toys where possible.
Swaddle that Pup up like a Real Human Baby (kind of)
Not so long ago a product hit the shop shelves that claimed to calm the nerves of our canine mates. It was called the Thundershirt—a type of tight dog jacket that provides an experience of pressure and closeness. It works in the same way as swaddling a baby—reminding them, on a subconscious level, of being in the womb. You can create your own DIY version of this jacket by purchasing a suitably sized human t-shirt and placing your dog’s front legs in the arm holes. If you get the sizing right, this should provide at least a partial sensation of pressure.
Give the Dog a Bone (but not just any old bone)
Nope, we’re talking CBD dog treats (CBD standing for cannabinoids). Contrary to common misconceptions, CBD is nothing to do with recreational cannabis. It’s simply derived from the same family of plants—namely hemp (the plant material that’s used in everything from clothing to cosmetics). CBD dog treats are proven to relax, ease anxiety, and calm even the cagiest of canines by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which is in charge of physiological reactions including appetite, pain-sensation, mood, and memory.
So effective is CBD, that it’s even been shown to help with a multitude of other dog conditions, including skin allergies and dry, itchy skin (you can thank the high content of Omega 3 fatty acids for that); as well as easing seizures and epilepsy, and even overcoming low energy.
If Eddie the English Springer was in the eye of the storm with a FOMO Bone in his mouth, he’d be a whole lot less stressed.
Author bio: Jennifer is the voice behind the FOMO Bones blog. She’s pretty sure she was a Great Dane in her past life, but her team at FOMO pegs her as more of a Labrador. Regardless of her breed, she’s a dog enthusiast with 15 years’ experience training dogs and owner.
How Long Does It Take for CBD Oil to Work?
Posted on September 19, 2019 1 Comment
This article by Madeleine Taylor was originally published on SundayScaries.
CBD products from the cannabis plant, such as CBD oil and hemp oil, have been proven to work as a symptom treatment for a wide variety of ailments, including post-traumatic stress disorder, which is exactly why it has become so popular over recent years. And, after more states and countries have taken steps to legalize cannabis, medical professionals are now advocating the use of CBD oil to alleviate the symptoms of many conditions. From serious physical conditions like Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and chronic pain to emotional issues like anxiety, depression, and insomnia, CBD oil has proven to be effective as a possible symptom treatment for pretty much any illness that you can think of.
And as more media attention is drawn to marijuana and particularly CBD oil, those who are considering taking CBD to improve their health are left wondering exactly how long it will be before they can experience the benefits of taking it.
What is CBD Oil?
Cannabidiol is the primary substance that contributes to the efficacy of CBD oil. It differs from its counterpart, THC, in that it does not produce psychoactive effects. Therefore, CBD-based products do not give you the same mind-altering effects, which has allowed it to become completely legal in the US and is quickly becoming widely available nationwide.
How Long does CBD take to Work?
There are a few different factors that will determine how quickly CBD oil will begin working in the body after it is consumed. First, the precise symptom or condition that you hope to alleviate will be a key influencer on how quickly you can expect to experience the effects of CBD. For example, if you suffer from chronic, debilitating pain, you may find that you start noticing a difference only after you have been taking the CBD oil for a while. You will also need to consider the concentration and dosage of the product you are taking. Not all CBD oils are created equal, which is why it is important only to purchase high-quality products from a reputable supplier. The largest and possibly most important determining factor that comes into play when considering how long it takes CBD to work, is the method you use to take it.
Vaping CBD Oil
The benefits of CBD are impressive. Moreover, vaping a high-grade, high-concentration CBD oil is going to offer you one of the fastest ways of experiencing its beneficial effects. This is because all the rich healing compounds will be delivered pretty much directly into your bloodstream via your lungs. The majority of users who vape CBD oil report that they can experience positive effects in as little as 10 minutes after vaping. It is important to remember that vaping CBD is not the same as smoking a joint. You won’t feel high or woozy, but you will notice a sense of calm and relief.
Sublingual CBD Tinctures
Sometimes, a medication will be placed under the patient’s tongue if it needs to take effect quickly. A CBD tincture is essentially an oil that is dropped under the tongue and absorbed directly by the mucous membranes in the mouth. This allows it to go straight into the bloodstream, bypassing the liver and the digestive system. Many users of CBD oil prefer to take a sublingual tincture, as it tends to taste better—or at least you can largely avoid it flowing through your taste buds.
CBD Gummies or Edibles
As cannabis-derived products become increasingly popular to treat everyday issues like migraines and insomnia, manufacturers are always looking for alternative ways to ingest it that actually taste good. While CBD oil is one of the most effective ways of experiencing the benefits quickly, many people don’t like the taste or texture. A good alternative is to invest in flavored CBD edibles. It is also worth noting that you can add CBD oil to any food or drink, but it will take longer to kick in. This is because it needs to be digested and then your liver needs to metabolize it before you feel the effects.
If you prefer to consume a CBD-based edible, then you should take it on an empty stomach, otherwise, it will take quite a while to take effect.
Topical Creams
If you are interested in taking CBD for skin conditions or for anti-inflammatory purposes, then a cream or ointment could work well. You simply rub the product directly onto your skin and the underlying cells will absorb it over time. This will cause the beneficial effects to last longer, especially if you are regularly applying a topical CBD cream.
How Much CBD Oil Do I Need to Take?
Everyone is different, so it is important to remember that what might be an ideal dose for one person may not be enough for another. You can find the perfect dosage of CBD by taking the following into account:
- Your bodyweight
- Your tolerance
- The severity of your issue
- Your chosen method of ingestion
With this in mind, we suggest that you start with a dose of around 2 mg. This will not only let your body become accustomed to the CBD oil and its effects, but the majority of people easily tolerate this dose and still experience its benefits. If you feel that isn’t quite cutting it, then from this point you can gradually increase the dosage you take until you hit the sweet spot.
As a rule of thumb, once you notice that your symptoms are starting to ease away you don’t need to increase the dose. Generally speaking, the dosage should no longer be increased once your medical symptoms are alleviated. It should be noted, however, that very high doses of CBD oil can induce feelings of sedation and fatigue.
How Long Will the Effects Last?
You will be pleased to hear that the effects of CBD oil will last for a few hours or more. So, unless you suffer from severe anxiety or insomnia, you won’t have to worry about taking a huge amount to stop it wearing off too quickly. Slow and steady wins the race every time! It can also be useful to think about the timings of your doses and plan accordingly depending on what you need the CBD oil for and how you will consume it. For example, if taking it for anxiety and you know you have a big meeting at 3pm, then factor this into your schedule.
Reduce Sport Injury Pain with CBD Tincture
Posted on September 9, 2019 Leave a Comment
This article was originally published on SundayScaries.
Athletes of every level are familiar with sport-related injuries and pain, regardless of whether it’s a result of competition level intense training or a specific event. And while both sportsmen and their coaches are largely knowledgeable about how to treat pain, the search is on for natural treatment options that can get them back in the game as soon as possible.
Recent years have seen a new and powerful treatment option rise to fame in the sports world in the form of CBD oil, which is non-invasive, entirely natural, and has few side effects. In comparison to traditional pain remedies, CBD is pocket-friendly, easily accessible in every state in the US, and it doesn’t require a prescription or inpatient treatment. It has been clinically proven to be an effective treatment for chronic pain and inflammation and according to personal testimonies it also offers other bonuses like promoting better sleep quality, enhancing focus, and increasing energy levels.
Previously, professional athletes had little choice but to rely on aggressive anti-inflammatory pills or injections to treat swelling and pain occurring as a result of a sports injury. The side effects of these traditional medicines have resulted in many professional careers being destroyed. It is for this reason that more athletes are turning to CBD tincture as a way to naturally combat pain, as well as enhancing their day to day performance. Further research is underway to determine if CBD can eventually be classified as a medicine by the notoriously strict FDA. It has already been cleared for use by the World Anti-Doping Agency.
How CBD Works to Reduce Sports Injury Pain
A hemp plant contains over 400 beneficial natural chemicals that synergistically work together to improve one’s health—one of the most important being CBD, or cannabinoids. Inflammation that happens as a result of our pain receptors being triggered is effectively reduced by the antioxidant properties that cannabinoids contain, whilst simultaneously interacting with the serotonin and vanilloid receptors that alter our perception of pain. This winning combination has been so effective that athletes who once relied on highly addictive opioid-based painkillers are now opting for a daily dose of CBD tincture.
In addition to helping combat pain and inflammation initial research has revealed that CBD also works as a neuroprotectant, which is invaluable to participants of contact sports, such as boxing or football. It also relaxes muscle spasms, soothes aching muscles, and replenishes muscles post-workout, further adding to its ever-growing appeal as a recommended supplement for athletes.
CBD Tincture or Topical Balm?
Both CBD tincture and CBD infused balms have their advantages when it comes to treating sports injuries but for maximum effect a combination of the two is best. Taking a sublingual tincture for sports medicine is the quickest and most convenient way of benefitting from CBD and many will argue that it is the fastest way of experiencing the long-term benefits. Topical ointments are perfect for treating localized injuries such as muscle spasm or sprains and strains. CBD balm can be applied liberally as many times as you like. So, for example, if you have knee pain, you can apply a topical CBD lotion or balm to reduce swelling and aid the healing process. Your knee tendon pain should begin to subside as the blood flow increases and the CBD acts to relieve pain. The same would go for your shoulder, rotator cuff, or other ligaments that can be torn or strained during physical activity.
If your pain is severe, a tincture will metabolize quicker than a topical balm and you will experience a greater sense of relief in less time, as well as being able to sleep better despite your injuries.
Will CBD Tincture Make You Feel High?
Despite thousands of articles already existing clearly stating that CBD oil does not have any kind of psychoactive effects, some athletes are still concerned that it could negatively affect their performance. Rest assured that the opposite is true; not only can it help enhance your determination and stamina, you also won’t have to worry about failing a drug test providing the CBD tincture you are using contains the legal amount of 0.3 percent THC.
Conclusion
CBD has already marked a turning point for athletes looking to manage pain and recover from injury with natural anti-inflammatory medications. The only issue is that until more research and studies are carried out, we are left wondering about how CBD is best and most effectively used among athletes and how it can be used as a preventive measure for injury and joint-related issues. But the same is true of many new products that emerge in the sports world; we know they are beneficial, but the specifics of how they are beneficial still remain a little vague. The sports world is ever-evolving and new workout fads are coming and going out of fashion faster than ever. One thing we do know is that with CBD tincture making headlines via anecdotal evidence of helping treat fatal illnesses like epilepsy and cancer, it will likely become a mainstream medicine in the future.
A word of warning for professional athletes:
Always make sure that you purchase a CBD tincture from a reputable source, and you request verification of the ingredients by obtaining a lab report. The Anti-Doping Agency has approved the use of CBD oil that contains 0.3 percent THC (as per federal law). If you’re injured, ask your doctor or physical therapist about incorporating CBD for pain relief into your healing process.
7 Steps To Build Confidence In Your Dog
Posted on August 30, 2019 Leave a Comment
This article by Jennifer was originally published on FOMO Bones.
Oh Fido. It’s tough to see him frightened and not really have a clue as to how to help (or what he’s even scared of). From jumping at the slightest sound to following you everywhere and showing tell-tale signs of fear (dropped tail, crouching, panting), it’s always pretty clear when you’ve got a nervy canine on your hands.
The question is: What can you do about it? Try following these seven simple tips.
1: Begin with firm foundations—set up good obedience during walks
Sit, stay, heel—these are the basic commands that your dog should know (and obey) during your walks. These cues and the consequent treats that follow (such as being handed a ball or toy) are essential distraction techniques for when you spot a hazard looming. Speaking of which…
2: Worried during walks? Distract your dog
A cautious, concerned canine during a walk can lead to disaster around other dogs or unpredictable people. The solution? Distraction. By giving your dog something to do while walking (like chewing a bone or carrying your bag), you give him something to focus on. In doing so, he’ll hopefully remain distracted on what he’s doing, rather than what may happen (and being hyper-sensitive to all that’s around).
3: Switch items from scary to something to salivate over
If your dog is scared of certain items, try exposure management. Simply take the item that your dog is afraid of and place something on it that your dog loves (treats usually work best). So if Sammy’s scared of skateboards, place a few treats on the top and encourage him to explore. Once he’s comfortable with that, move on to pushing the skateboard slightly (with items such as this, which are common in parks) it’s usually the movement that dogs are uncomfortable with. Remember, with exposure management slow and steady wins the race.
4: Seek out fresh new places where your dog can taste success
Practicing and repeating problem behaviors only reinforces them. Staying cooped up inside isn’t helpful for anyone—not for humans, not for dogs. Getting out and about to new places can allow your dog to explore and be fascinated by the new smells and sights around him.
This may not necessarily mean a walk in a forest (some dogs aren’t comfortable in the great outdoors); it may mean a late-night wander in a dead-quiet park. But no matter the environment, it’s the newness of the place that will encourage his innate curiosity to explore.
5: Sign up for agility training
Agility training involves plenty of physical effort and dexterity on the dog’s part. And yet agility isn’t really the key skill being learned.
By showing them how to complete new tasks, and with your dog gradually working towards getting it right every time, their trust in you grows and their confidence in their own abilities increases. With each tunnel, pole, or hoop successfully navigated, they’ll learn that what once seemed insurmountable can be mastered. And so their confidence will (hopefully) grow and grow.
6: Have a trial run with another dog
For dogs that don’t fear (or show aggression) to other dogs, a more confident canine pal can prove to be a real behavior-changer.
After all, dogs (much like humans) observe the actions and interactions of others, and can mirror behaviors that they come to see as appropriate.
A key pointer here is that some companionship is more effective than others, and it may take a few trial play dates to discover a dog that’s a natural, positive fit with yours.
7: Harness the targeting technique
Targeting is the practice of touching a specific part of your dog’s body to re-direct his attention to you. This becomes more effective than simply calling his name during a frightening experience, as it’s used less often.
To train him, hold a treat in your hand. Once he begins to sniff around it, say ”nose” and pass him his treat. Regularly practicing this will show your dog that bumping his nose on your hand, and giving you his focus, will result in a yummy treat being given.
Alaskan Husky struggling with dog anxiety? Stressed out St. Bernard? We’ve got just the thing. 100% natural CBD dog treats that are packed not just with stress-exterminating cannabidiol but also with plenty of good stuff to boot (good stuff such as potatoes, natural bacon flavoring, whole peas, sweet potatoes, potato starch, dried plain beet pulp, mixed tocopherols, carrots, and rosemary extract).
Author bio: Jennifer is the voice behind the FOMO Bones blog. She’s pretty sure she was a Great Dane in her past life, but her team at FOMO pegs her as more of a Labrador. Regardless of her breed, she’s a dog enthusiast with 15 years’ experience training dogs and owner.
Goodbye Wrinkles and Blemishes: CBD For Skincare
Posted on August 23, 2019 Leave a Comment
This article was originally published on SundayScaries.
CBD sits right in the junction of modern society’s current concerns about beauty, health, and emotional wellbeing. Given the trials and tribulations that life presents us with on a continuous basis, it really is no surprise that everyone is in search of the holy grail that will provide them with the serenity that we are all seeking in one way or another. Cue CBD, which has taken the world by storm by shaking the stoner stereotype often associated with marijuana and donning a sleek, luxurious cloak.
These days, CBD can be found in everything from organic gummies and potent tinctures to iced lattes and gold-plated vape pens that casually adorn the shelves of luxury boutiques. Celebrities have latched onto the CBD trend too, with personalities such as Kim Kardashian wanting to throw a CBD-themed baby shower. And let’s not forget about that ultra-chic brand, Beboe, that has swiftly become one of the most in-demand CBD skincare brands in the US.
A recent report from a popular marijuana delivery platform revealed that the percentage of women forming the cannabis consumer market outweighed the quantity of men. It was also shown that the likelihood of women incorporating cannabis into their personal care regimes is 67 percent more than men. With all the environmental issues that our planet is experiencing, it makes perfect sense that people are now more inclined to want to use naturally derived products. And this is why we can expect to see CBD positively thriving in a billion-dollar beauty products industry.
What are the Benefits of Using CBD in Skincare
Experts in the beauty industry agree that CBD offers a multi-faceted approach to nourishing skincare. It has strong anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties and it’s also a powerful anti-oxidant. Inflammation and skin aging catalysts for each other, and CBD has been proven to reduce inflammation. It also hydrates the skin and stimulates collagen production, diminishing the appearance of wrinkles. It is rich in vitamins that contribute to healthy, balanced skin.
How Does CBD Combat Wrinkles and Skin Conditions?
Our skin features the highest concentration of cannabinoid receptors. These receptors are found all throughout the body and this comprises what’s known as an endocannabinoid system, which is basically responsible for regulating essential bodily functions and responses to things like stress, immunity, sebum production, and hormones. Research has revealed that CBD interacts with these receptors, which is the reason our skin responds so well to it. When dealing with issues like inflammation, bacteria, and lipid reduction (which can cause acne), CBD balances everything via the stimulation of the cannabinoid receptors in the skin.
Research still has a long way to go before skincare brands can start making firm claims with regard to CBD’s ability to soothe skin complaints and reduce the signs of aging, but what we know so far is that it definitely has strong potential to be highly effective at reducing skin irritation and redness, making wrinkles less visible and treating conditions like psoriasis and acne.
Which Method of Using CBD is Most Effective for Healthy Skin?
Taking any form of CBD definitely increases your chances of having healthier skin, but there is a difference between eating a CBD infused gummy and applying a topical serum. For starters, you should understand that if you ingest CBD, there is a 100-percent chance of that active ingredient reaching your bloodstream. Whether that is through mouth tissue or your digestive system, you will reap the benefits. But, due to the fact that it passes through your body into the bloodstream, bioavailability will differ.
When CBD is applied directly to the skin it has less chance of reaching your bloodstream, but when the endocannabinoid receptors in your skin absorb it, it tends to works quite fast for localized surface-level treatment. So, if you want to improve issues like sore or dry skin, blemishes, or wrinkles, the topical application will be a winner thanks to the localized concentrated effect.
What About Skin Conditions Like Acne?
Many people who suffer from acne and oily or sensitive skin have had fantastic results after using CBD skincare, reporting that their skin quickly felt and looked better. Redness and greasy skin can improve in as little as just a few applications, depending on the severity of the complaint you are experiencing. But, those who suffer from breakouts that are stress-related or linked to poor sleeping and eating habits have also found that CBD oil taken sublingually has been responsible for the drastic improvements they have experienced. At this stage, both methods appear to be successful based on word-of-mouth testimonies.
What to Look for in CBD Skin-Care Products
With so many options available in the CBD skincare realm, it’s important to know what qualities to look for when making a choice. A premium quality product will be made using full-spectrum CBD oil, so you benefit from the goodness found in every part of the cannabis plant and not just CBD. It should be pesticide- and GMO-free, as well as being subject to third-party lab testing. Lab testing is important, as it is proof that the ingredients on the label match those found inside the product. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the brand, do your research and listen to advice provided by reputable brands.
Here’s the Tea: CBD Gummies or Tincture Infused Tea Recipes to Try
Posted on August 14, 2019 1 Comment
This article was originally published on SundayScaries.
If you’re feeling a little adventurous, and you want to explore novel ways to consume CBD, then you are not alone. Every day sees new companies and products popping up in the CBD world, and as new ideas are developed regarding the ways in which the all-natural supplement can be consumed, new trends are emerging.
2019 has seen a range of businesses popping up left, right, and center—from spas specializing in deep tissue massage using CBD oil to cafes offering CBD smoothies and CBD-infused coffee. You will most likely find it somewhere nearby.
CBD gummies are definitely a trend across the United States, but due to their ever-increasing popularity, it can be a struggle to find dispensaries in your area that have good quality gummies in stock. In light of this, many people are now getting out their baking equipment and looking for recipes that allow them to make their own gummies from the comfort of their own home and experiment with a wide range of different flavors and textures.
CBD Gummy Recipe to Try
You don’t have to be a master chef to make these CBD gummies. You just need to mix all the ingredients together, stir, and pour into a silicone mold for them to set. The hardest part of the whole process is measuring out how much CBD you want each gummy to contain, which isn’t exactly a deal-breaker.
Tip: If you work out that you want 10mg of tincture in each gummy, look at how many gummies the mixture makes in total and multiply by that amount.
You can also add the CBD oil into each little mold after you have poured the rest of the ingredients, though this does require a bit more skill and dexterity!
You will need:
- Flavored gelatin
- CBD oil
- Silicon mold
Step by step:
- Follow the instructions on the gelatin packet. Remove the dissolved mixture from the heat and either add in the desired amount of CBD oil at this point and pour into a mold to set, or add it in when you have poured the mixture into each mold individually.
- After around 30 minutes, put the molds in the fridge and in a few hours your gummies will be ready to eat! Yes, it really is that simple.
CBD Infused Tea Recipes
If CBD gummies aren’t your thing, or you simply cannot be bothered to make a mess in the kitchen, then rest assured you can still enjoy all the benefits of CBD in a simple tea form. Certain herbs and spices complement CBD better than others, so for the following recipe we will be focusing on particular types of tea.
The first thing to do is to have your end goal clear in your mind. Do you want to make a CBD tea that will help you to relax and drift off to sleep at the end of a long day? Or do you want something more energy-enhancing, like green tea CBD mixture, to start the day alert and focused? Once you have selected your tea of choice, either loose-leaf or in a tea bag, you have already made a good start.
What you will need:
- Tea of choice (we will be using matcha green tea gunpowder)
- Milk of preference (coconut milk works great!)
- Good quality full-spectrum CBD tincture
- Your favorite teacup!
Step by step:
- Boil around half a cup of water and pour over your tea bag or loose-leaf tea of choice. Stir and leave to infuse for a few minutes
- The next step is to add your milk product of choice—remember that oil and water don’t mix, so adding a fatty component into the mix is essential for the CBD oil to absorb properly
- Add your desired dose of high-quality CBD tincture, stir, and leave for a couple of minutes. Enjoy
Making your own CBD tea at home really couldn’t be much simpler, and it also is quick and convenient to prepare. There is another option, which is to buy pre-made CBD infused tea bags (or loose-leaf tea).
In this instance, you will get better results if you place the teabag in the cup and first cover with warm milk of choice. After you have allowed the CBD oil to fully absorb into the warm milk for around 10 minutes, top up with hot water and enjoy!
Top Tip
Try to use hot water as opposed to freshly boiled water, as you will avoid a burnt taste that can be especially prominent when using gunpowder teas or loose leaf. And of course, don’t forget the strainer!
Why Coconut Milk?
The reason we chose coconut milk for this homemade CBD brew recipe is that it increases the bioavailability of the cannabinoids. This is why many CBD tinctures and balms use coconut oil as a carrier oil—it helps the cannabinoids pass into the bloodstream quicker.
The Takeaway
CBD teas and homemade gummies can be a tastier way for you to take your CBD tincture, and many people prefer these methods over taking the oil sublingually. While you might notice a faint earthy taste, it will be nothing compared to ingesting CBD oil neat.
Do Puppies Grow Out of Separation Anxiety?
Posted on August 8, 2019 Leave a Comment
This article by Jennifer was originally published on FOMO Bones.
Dog separation anxiety, especially in puppies, is a common problem that affects thousands of dog owners across the world and, if left untreated, it can become quite serious. Although we have not been able to pinpoint an exact root cause of separation anxiety, we are aware that it is usually because animals are not created to be alone. Dogs, in particular, are pack animals, so when we take a pup away from the rest of its litter, this is when we start witnessing the symptoms of loneliness. Sometimes, the symptoms can be limited to just a bit of initial barking and crying when we leave, but more often than not separation anxiety will produce destructive behaviors like chewing and biting.
It is important to recognize puppy separation anxiety, and that he is not acting out on purpose to upset you. They are more prone to experiencing separation anxiety due to their need for more human interaction and attention. They also haven’t developed the skills that older dogs have, so your puppy probably doesn’t realize that you will be coming back.
Thankfully, there is a whole range of tools and techniques that you can use to get your puppy’s separation anxiety under control, and this is what will set them up for good behavior and habits for the rest of their lives.
Only Leave Your Puppy Alone When it is Appropriate
Puppies simply can’t be left on their own for long periods of time. It is likely that you are still potty training your puppy if he is young, so you will need to make sure that you are taking him out frequently enough to get a good routine down. During puppyhood, dogs will absorb everything they notice going on around him and a lonely, bored puppy can result in an insecure and unhappy adult dog. If you work full time and you have recently added a puppy into the mix, then you may want to consider paying a dog sitter or friend to come over every few hours to check on them.
Consider Crate Training
Crate training is recommended by dog behaviorists, as it one of the most effective ways of tacking separation anxiety in dogs. Contrary to popular belief, crate training is not just a matter of shutting your dog into a cage. If you follow the correct methods when introducing your dog to his crate, he will start seeing it as his safe place where he can go to feel comforted and secure.
Try CBD Treats
Not only will he benefit from the soothing therapeutic benefits of these all-natural treats, but he will also learn to form a positive association with being left alone. Many people prefer using CBD treats over any other treatment, especially when their dog is demonstrating severe symptoms of anxiety. You can help alleviate some of the terror that a small dog feels by having a special treat they get only before you leave. This can help them get something great out of your leaving and helps make the process a little less stressful.
Ease Your Puppy into a Routine
Just before leaving, pick up your keys and put your shoes on. Start by stepping out the door and then come back almost immediately (if they are being quiet) and reward them with a treat. You can gradually extend the length of time you leave your dog and always remember that you should never reward negative behavior (like barking, whining, etc.) or your dog will learn that that will get them attention. Stay away for a little longer each time you go out and before too long, your pup will get used to it and even learn to accept it.
Will My Pup Grow Out of Separation Anxiety?
Sadly, if you don’t act to correct the symptoms of separation anxiety early on, it tends to get worse. Puppies will not just miraculously grow out of separation anxiety as they get older because it has little to do with their age. If a puppy is left on its own from day one and never learns to feel safe about being alone, then they will never be able to have a positive association with you going out.
Many rescue dogs have extreme separation anxiety, due to the abandonment they have previously experienced. As our dogs are not able to speak to us and tell us what they need and how they feel, we need to step up and be responsible dog parents and do our best to ensure that we raise a well-balanced and confident dog. Due to their tiny size, puppies can’t do that much damage even if they try… but imagine what they could do once they are fully grown and suffering from a harsher degree of anxiety. Suddenly we are dealing with a whole different ball game!
Can I Give My Dog Anxiety Medicine?
If your dog is demonstrating severe anxiety, which could include destructive behavior, being too anxious, house soiling, or never being calm, even if you just walk out of the room for a minute, then a trip to the vet or animal behaviorist is always a good idea. Many people, however, prefer not to give their dog any kind of chemical medications and instead would rather take a natural approach. Not only is it better for your pet in the long run, but it can also be less expensive. For example, giving your dog a totally organic CBD treat will not only bring his anxiety levels right down, but the treats also offer a whole load of other benefits, like improved health, shinier coats, and pain relief. We always recommend taking a natural approach where possible, and many vets now advocate and even promote the use of CBD to help separation anxiety in dogs.
Whichever approach you decide to take, if your dog has separation anxiety, always remember that consistency is key, and you won’t see a sudden improvement overnight. Stick with whichever training method you decide on and give your pet the chance to be the best dog they can possibly be.
Author bio: Jennifer is the voice behind the FOMO Bones blog. She’s pretty sure she was a Great Dane in her past life, but her team at FOMO pegs her as more of a Labrador. Regardless of her breed, she’s a dog enthusiast with 15 years’ experience training dogs and owner.
RJ Plant
