Five ways to practice mindfulness with CBD

Mindfulness is thought to relieve stress, lower blood pressure levels and help with better sleep – can CBD help us practice it more effectively?

In the wake of the pandemic, more people are experiencing mental distress, burnout is on the rise and several CBD brands have reported a rise in customers looking for an antidote to their Covid-induced anxiety, as they resort to new ways of coping.

The fast-paced nature of the modern world can take a toll on our mental health, so how do we practice being more mindful – and can CBD help us achieve this?

What is mindfulness?

Mindfulness is the essential human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not overly reactive to or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us.

While mindfulness is something we all naturally possess, it’s more readily available to us when we practice daily.

Whenever you bring awareness to what you’re directly experiencing via your senses or to your state of mind via your thoughts and emotions, you’re being mindful. 

And there’s growing research showing that when you train your brain to be mindful, you’re remodelling the physical structure of your brain.

Introducing mindfulness practices in our daily lives by appreciating simple things will give us ample opportunities for better decision making and focus.

Practising these exercises will train you to become more aware of your thoughts, feelings and body sensations. 

There are numerous benefits of being mindful.

Mindfulness can help relieve stress levels, help with better sleep and lower blood pressure levels. 

CBD can help you focus better

The non-psychoactive compound of the cannabis plant can help with a more positive and relaxed mood which will allow you to focus more on mindfulness practices.

The body has its own endocannabinoid system (ECS). Research shows that CBD impacts our body’s chemicals that are cannabis-like. When paired with CBD, it can stabilise our emotional state.

Serotonin is a mood regulator found in the body, and low levels of it can lead to negative thoughts, low mood and anxiety. The use of CBD can help boost serotonin levels due to the response from the endocannabinoid system.

Don’t forget to breathe

Focusing on the breath is particularly helpful because it serves as an anchor – something you can turn your attention to at any time if you start to feel stressed or carried away by negative emotions.

Mindful breathing is fundamental. The idea is to focus your attention on your breathing—to its natural rhythm and flow. Start by taking strong, deep, slow breaths by inhaling and exhaling and making sure that the belly moves inwards and outwards , while acknowledging your thoughts.

Taking time away from technology

Set a time to check on social media, whether in the morning or evening, this will help you focus on other things besides the urge to check online constantly. Live in the moment, especially before bed, a digital detox will help you relax and sleep better rather than your phone, try picking up a book and reading.

Clear your calendar 

Self-care is important without a doubt. Investing time in yourself will give you fruitful outcomes mentally and physically. Saying ‘no’ can be hard, often filled with guilt, but prioritising what is more crucial can help with the unnecessary workload. Make the time to enjoy yoga or Pilates classes or simple things that you’re fond of, instead of pushing it out of the way.

Enjoy Food 

Eating well is important for humans. Food contains fortifying nutrients and minerals that help towards a healthier life. However, taking the time to chew food properly instead of wolfing it down can be hard on the digestive system and not use your senses to its full potential. Chewing slowly will enable you to appreciate food and experience the culinary aroma. Some experts seem to agree that mindful eating may be an effective way to prevent bingeing.

Take breaks 

Don’t bury yourself with work. Taking the time to step in and out of work will enable you to focus better and help you with your concentration span. Opting to go for a brisk walk will clear your head and mentally refresh you. It can also combat tiredness and lethargy.

By having conscious interaction, you become deeply aware of your actions and habits; this gives you more time to focus and reflect on new dimensions of thinking.