As a cannabis professional, you know the plant is a controversial topic, with stigmas surrounding its use and clouding its potential health benefits. However, there is an influx of research and advocacy from notable institutes, individuals and organizations that have shed light on the many ways it can support healthy living.

“Beyond addressing key industry insights and emerging business opportunities, on April 20 through a series of Grown In initiatives we’re going to take a deep dive into the realms of morning wellness, athletics, seniors, and mental health. There will be programming on these topics throughout the day at Cannabis Innovation Summit, a joint venture between 1871, World Business Chicago and Grown In with support from Cresco LABS, NuEra Cannabis, AeroPay and Tecvine. Additionally, Grown In will host a morning consumption experience adjacent to Chicago’s historic Merchandise Mart from 7:30am to 9:30am. Our Wake & Make™ event made possible by our friends at Sesh Bus will emphasize the positive role cannabis plays in promoting overall well-being.

Morning Routines

We’re probably preaching to the choir when we state that traditional coffee and tea aren’t the only ways people kick start their days now. Many individuals use cannabis in the morning to help them wake up, focus, and get ready. One study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology¹ found that cannabis can increase alertness and reduce fatigue, making it a useful tool for those who struggle to get going first thing. Additionally, some cannabis strains can improve mood, which can set a positive tone for the day. As the market expands, there are more diverse products available to use or consume at the onset of one’s day.

Through our Wake & Make™ event on April 20th we’re educating people about choosing the best method, dosage, and cannabinoid product to help start their mornings refreshed and ready! Companies involved include: 240 Logistics, 4Front Ventures, Cresco Labs, Ieso, and Nature’s Grace and Wellness. Stay tuned for media coverage!

Athlete Pain and Stress Relief

Once you’re up and going for the day, physical activity is crucial for maintaining good health, but it can also cause pain and stress. Many athletes turn to cannabis as a natural way to manage these symptoms because cannabinoids can reduce inflammation and pain and lower stress levels, which can improve athletic performance and aid in recovery.

However, use of the plant has been discouraged and penalized by professional sports associations. Michele Roberts, former executive director of the National Basketball Player’s Association and board member of Cresco Labs, played a critical role in getting rid of unjust cannabis drug tests in the NBA.

She will be presenting as the keynote speaker at the Cannabis Innovation Summit about her efforts. You can attend her talk for free onsite or virtually by signing up for the event through the link provided.

Seniors

As we age, we’re often unable to maintain the same physical feats we’re able to easily execute in our youth. Health challenges that come with getting older can impact our quality of life. Cannabis can be a useful tool for seniors in managing these difficulties. For example, cannabis can help with chronic pain, insomnia, and anxiety, all of which are common in older adults. Additionally, cannabis has been shown to improve cognitive function in seniors, which can help maintain independence and overall well-being. A study published in the European Journal of Internal Medicine found that cannabis was effective in reducing chronic pain in elderly patients² and another study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease found that cannabis can improve cognitive function in seniors with Alzheimer’s disease³.

Experts in experiential programming informing seniors about the plant are going to host an interactive conversation on the topic as part of breakout sessions that’ll be held at 10am CT during the Cannabis Innovation Summit. You’re invited to take part! Simply register through the link provided and show up!

If this is a topic of interest to you that you’d like your employees to learn more about for better customer service and support, check out the course we have dedicated to this subject.

Mental Health

Last but not least, mental health is an essential component of overall health, and cannabis can play a role in promoting good mental health. Cannabis can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, both of which can be debilitating. While some stigmas surrounding cannabis suggest that it can cause mental health issues, research has shown that cannabis use is not associated with an increased risk of developing mental health disorders.

Nature’s Grace and Wellness will facilitate an interactive conversation on the topic during a breakout session held at 10am CT at the Cannabis Innovation Summit. The proactive peer-to-peer discussion will offer tools to help individuals address mental health challenges or situations that they may encounter both in their personal lives and in the workplace. The session will address stigmas associated with cannabis and mental health and promote the values of balancing self-care and cannabis to fit one’s needs. You’re invited to take part! Simply register through the link provided and show up! This will be part of an ongoing campaign we’ll be covering in partnership with Nature’s Grace and Wellness through May, which is Mental Health Awareness Month.

Cannabis can support healthy living in many different ways. From helping with morning routines to relieving athlete pain and stress, aiding seniors, and promoting good mental health, cannabis has the potential to improve overall well-being. While there are still stigmas surrounding its use, research has shown that cannabis can be a safe and effective tool for managing a variety of health challenges. We’re excited for the in-person events we’ll be facilitating to further explore these possibilities with experts and advocates on 4/20 in Chicago. We hope you’ll be able to join us!

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