Marijuana: Part of a Healthy, Fit Life?
Look, guys, I get it. I’m a nurse. I don’t use marijuana in my daily life. I’m willing to bet that you’d be willing to bet you know exactly what I have to say about the subject.
And you might be wrong.
Well, right about one thing – I don’t use marijuana in my daily life. It’s kind of a big no-no in my career field. They don’t let us stay in the club if we do things like that, and I like my job. I’m not willing to give up my marathon, no-pee-break days, my snarky coworkers, or (most importantly) my supply of really cool pens for a little chemical relaxation. However, I am, first and foremost, a scientist; I believe in looking at things objectively, and following the evidence. SO, what does the evidence have to say? Well, that’s a bit tricky, but let’s jump in.
Increased Knowledge, but a Lot of Gray Areas
Marijuana has been a controversial topic for decades, ever since the government was swayed by the arguments of Harry Anslinger. You see, Anslinger ran a very effective campaign for criminalization in the 1930’s by stoking the racial climate of the time. His campaign stoked fears by claiming that marijuana would induce white women to have sex with members of the black community (OH, THE HORROR), among other things. Times change, however, and with the increasing legalization and acceptance of its use for medicinal and recreational purposes, it has become a topic of discussion again. This discussion has not eluded the health and fitness community. It is true that some people will always associate marijuana with laziness and unhealthy habits. But, there are actually many ways in which it can be incorporated into a healthy and active lifestyle.
First and foremost, it is important to note that marijuana affects everyone differently, so it is important to approach its use with caution and do what works best for your individual body and lifestyle. That being said, there are a few ways in which marijuana can potentially benefit those who are interested in maintaining a health and fitness routine.
A (Possible) Safe Alternative to Prescriptions
One way in which marijuana can benefit a fitness lifestyle is through pain relief. Criminalization has meant that there haven’t been real opportunities to study its effects. However, it is increasingly accepted in the medical community that marijuana can provide significant pain improvement. The National Institutes of Health, among others, have conducted reviews that seem to show great benefits in this area. Many athletes and fitness enthusiasts experience soreness and inflammation after a tough workout or competition, and marijuana has been shown to have pain-relieving properties that can help alleviate these symptoms. This is because marijuana contains compounds called cannabinoids, which interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to reduce inflammation and pain.
Another potential benefit of marijuana for those interested in a health and fitness lifestyle is its ability to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Many people struggle with anxiety and stress, which can hinder their ability to focus on their health and fitness goals. Marijuana has been shown to have a calming effect on the body and mind, which can help individuals feel more relaxed and focused. Also, while studies have not been properly conducted on mental health benefits, medical professionals (myself included) would be hard-pressed to argue that the negative effects could be worse than the health effects of major antidepressants and anxiety medications.
Burned out? Maybe not…
But Greg!, some of you are likely saying, Marijuana makes you lazy! I hear you. And 20-year-old Greg might have agreed. As a young pot enthusiast, I certainly didn’t do anything much more productive than playing 6 hours of video games. However, it is now being shown that some strains of marijuana can increase energy levels and boost creativity. This can be particularly beneficial for those who engage in creative forms of exercise, such as dance or yoga. Some people even find that using marijuana before a workout can enhance their overall experience and help them feel more connected to their body and the movement.
However, it is important to note that marijuana is not a magic solution for health and fitness goals. While it can potentially provide benefits, it is still important to prioritize a balanced and healthy lifestyle overall. This means incorporating other healthy habits such as regular exercise, a nutritious diet, and plenty of sleep.
It is also important to consider the potential risks and drawbacks of marijuana use. Smoking or inhaling marijuana can be harmful to the lungs, and overuse can lead to dependence and negative side effects. Again, marijuana’s legal status has made it particularly difficult to conduct meaningful medical studies on the subject. Overall, my advice would be to remember that it is important to approach marijuana use with moderation and be aware of the potential risks.
The Final Word?
In conclusion, there is still much research to be done on the effects of marijuana on health and fitness. However, there are potential benefits that may be worth exploring for those interested in incorporating it into their lifestyle. Remember, it is important to approach its use with caution and prioritize overall health and wellness habits. As with any lifestyle choice, it is important to do what works best for your individual needs. If in doubt, consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
