Art journaling has less of a focus on written words.
It allows a person to express their current state of emotion through doodles, watercolor, mixed media and other artistic expression. It's a great way to release when you can't find the words to express yourself. Mood boards are a great example of art and visual journaling! You don't have to be Picasso to partake in this method of expression. Do what makes you happy!
Whenever I'm stressed and anxious, I write down all the things that are hurting me mentally. Then, I go through those things in a mindful manner to see how I can eliminate or reduce those things in my life.
I deal with chronic pain and stress and anxiety add enormous tension. It's important for me to manage stress more-so than the average person.
This method of journaling helps me feel in control. It allows me to see the playing field from a bird's eye view and promotes an internal locus of control.
On days I feel writer's block, I turn to stream of consciousness writing.
It can be redundant and boring but always helps me find some gold nuggets.
Especially if I have a lot going on in my personal life and work, this form of journaling helps me work through problems I might be going through to find resolve and solutions.
It can be hard to know where to start when delving into journaling!
Many people have left me messages asking what prompts and ideas I use and how I got started in journaling.
My best advice? Just start!
There are hundreds of prompts out there that can help you get going.
It might not be perfect at first! That's ok! Journaling can also help cure perfectionist behaviors. It's really aided my own personal journey with perfectionism and procrastination.
List three things your grateful for and why!
What’s weighing on your mind?
List it out in bullet points!
Now, how can you reduce or eliminate those points of mental tension?
Write down your dream as if you’re living it today! This proven to help follow through with your dreams and turn them into reality.
“I love living by the beach!”
“I am so happy in my new home!"
]]>But when a friend on Instagram told me about Ovira, I had to try it out.
I am always looking for pain management tools to assist with my symptoms from endometriosis. Especially ones that are drug-free! I have take a lot of Advil over time and it's something I'm constantly trying to rely less on.
I am constantly dealing with horrible menstrual cramps as well as flare ups when I'm not on my period.
This seemed right up my alley.
I had used a TENS unit before when I was seeing a chiropractor but never thought to use it for my sharp period cramps and soreness. Traditional units like the one I was used to seeing are bulkier and more complex to operate.
I couldn't believe there was a more attainable and portable option!
Ovira Assembling and Application
As soon as I received the unit, I assembled the various pieces together. The kit includes:
1. Portable TENS unit with clip
2. Gel pads
3. Y cable
4. Storage disk
5. Storage pouch
6. Charger
7. User guide
I plugged in both pads first, next the unit and then I carefully removed the film. To help keep the gel undamaged, don't touch it directly. Hold the part where the cord plugs into the pads to be safe!
Gently put the pads on either side of your lower abdomen.
Make sure they are fully secured!
Next, hold the power button down until the light turns white. Use the up and down arrows to control the level of pulses. Use the clip to put the unit on your waistband and you're good to go!
Storage & charging your Ovira
When you're done using the unit, turn it off with the power button and carefully remove the pads holding the area where it's plugged in. I try to avoid touching the gel pads as much as possible!
Use the plastic film or storage disk for the pads. This will help make them last longer! Unplug the Y cord from the unit and pads. Then, I charge the unit with the included USB and store everything else in its box to keep everything organized and from being damaged.
What is a TENS unit?
TENS stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and has been frequently used to target pain and discomfort. It's especially used by chiropractors and physical therapists.
It works by sending electric pulses through the gel adhesives which flood the nervous system and stimulate natural endorphins to halt pain signals from going to your brain. Isn't that incredible? (Source: Medical News Today)
How long does relief last?
Due to the severity of my pain, I notice that it only relieves me of discomfort while the unit is active and for a short period after. Cramping does return when I'm not using the unit.
Some people have reported longer lasting effects so it varies by user experience.
Are there side effects?
I personally have not experienced any side effects myself! Because of the nature of this product, there seem to be few downsides to its use.
The tingling pulses can be abrasive and uncomfortable to some people. If you are sensitive to the sensation, it might be best at a lower setting.
Also, make sure you are not allergic to anything in the gel adhesive pad! Opt for hypoallergenic to avoid any skin irritation.
Read the full instructions of where not to use your TENS unit. Especially do not use in areas over your eyes or front of your neck.
If you're pregnant, have seizures or heart concerns, avoid using this product or consult your doctor to see if this is a safe alternative for you.
Get an awesome deal!
You can save on Ovira! Get $10 toward your Ovira : )
http://bit.ly/SaveOnOvira
]]>I’ve now infused tinctures, butter, I even made my birthday cake in the Ardent.
Infused butter is a great and versatile way to manage my pain symptoms from Endometriosis throughout the day. It has really been helping me!
First off, you'll need some supplies!
1. Cheesecloth
2. Strainer
3. Butter
4. CBD and/or THC
5. Paper towels
6. Gloves
7. Plate
8. Mason Jar or storage container
9. Ardent Nova FX
Preparing Your Product
In this batch, I used about 3.5 grams of CBD and 7 grams of THC that I put to two cups of butter. You can grind it if you want but you don’t have before putting your product in the Nova FX.
I ground a little bit and honestly didn’t feel like grinding anymore. Ha.
I did pick off bigger stems! I personally feel like when you grind weed, it aggravates the crystals and terpenes, taking away from the full experience.
But maybe that’s just me! So I always try and put in as much whole bud as I can.
Starting the Decarboxylation Process
After you put the flower in the Nova FX, put the top on and secure it tightly. The button should be green. We’re then going to use the M to put it on the mode that we want it.
You have four options: A1, A2, Bake and Infuse
For this batch, we want it at A1 for THC. A2 is for CBD and you can run this for 1-2 cycles depending on what you want out of your product.
Once you select your desired setting, hold down the power button until it’s red!
And there you go! You're decarbing your flower!
Why is Decarbing Important?
You’re activating the product so that it can be infused in a tincture or butter. When you smoke for example, you're adding heat to achieve the results you want. You can't just eat a nug and experience the effects of THC. It must be activated first!
Science is too cool - right?! Like why wasn't this what I was learning in school?! Probably would have paid way more attention haha.
Cool Down Process
Once the button starts blinking red, that means the product is cooling down. We want to wait until the button is green to open the lid! It’s important to wait until the product is completely cooled down before adding the butter.
Infusing Process
Once the light is green and finished blinking, that means the decarb process is done! It's time to put in the butter.
I put whole sticks in but feel free to chop it up to fit better. You don't want it to be squished or tight.
Ardent did a study to see if you can just put the butter directly in with the flower and if it will decarb properly like that. Their study found you don’t want to do this because it will not fully activate your product.
Even though it takes more time to run multiple cycles, you'll get better results from decarboxylating your flower separately first!
Once the butter is in, secure the lid firmly and use the M to set it to infuse. Then, we're going to push the power button down until it turns red. Now you wait!
Straining the Butter
Once the button is green, it's ready to pour! And it's going to smell incredible! The Ardent Nova FX is really great at concealing the smell, but does have a faint odor. I usually light a candle, incense or open a window and it's good to go.
By my calculations this should be about 700 milligrams in this entire jar but. That’s only based off the assumption that it’s about 10% THC. I'm not entirely sure the percentage of the CBD I used, but it's most likely 10%-18% of CBD.
I use this calculator for figuring out the dosing and percentages to the best of my ability!
I use a cheesecloth and strainer separately to pour into my mason jar. I put a plate and paper towel underneath just in case. I wear gloves because I hate being sticky! I don’t know about you guys but I’m also that person who if I get my sleeve wet, it’s one of my biggest pet peeves. Oh my god.
Once it's all poured into the mason jar, you're ready to go! I like saving the remnants to use as garnish personally but totally up to you!
Now - I wanna hear your recipes in the comments.
What are you making? What would you infuse? Give me some dope recipes because I’m read to get cookin’!
]]>1. Gloves
2. Plastic bags
3. Bleach
4. Squirt bottles
5. Rubber bands
6. A metal tray
7. Bunch of cotton shirts
They’re are about to look so sick!
First, make sure your space is prepped. I recommend working outside because of the bleach. You’re going to grab some rubber bands and start bunching and rolling your shirts. I did three different designs to test it out. I used a black long sleeve, a yellow long sleeve and a black short sleeve.
You want make sure they are cotton and not synthetic fabrics so they dye properly. Also keep in mind that the tighter your shirts and more rubber bands you use, the more space you’ll have without bleach.
Try and find strong rubber bands, too because I broke a million of these and you want to make sure they’re properly holding your fabric in place.
Once everything is rubber banded up and secure, you’re ready to bleach!
I carefully poured on non-diluted bleach using a squirt bottle and rubbed it in on certain spots using the gloves.
I’ve never purposefully dyed fabric with bleach before - only by accident!
So I wanted to be conservative because I can always add more. I used a plastic bag behind it to catch any bleach but picked it up throughout so it wouldn’t pool at the bottom.
I also got into some of the creases to create a more splotchy look on the two black shirts. But I wanted more of a sunburst on the yellow long sleeve. They started changing color almost immediately! You can adjust the hues by diluting the bleach with water but I personally wanted a really washed out look.
I let them sit for about thirty minutes in the sun and then took them inside to rinse and remove all the rubber bands.
You want to try to rinse as much bleach as possible out with cold water. I used gloves for this, too because I hate the smell of bleach on my fingers. The patterns look so cool!
After they’re rinsed, it’s time to put them through the wash. Grab your shirt and a tide pod - don’t eat it! - and put on a cold small cycle. Then throw them in the dryer with some sheets to make them extra cozy. Personally love lavender.
And BOOM - you’re ready to go! I love the splotchy patterns going up the sleeves and check out the back! So cool! And there’s more! I’m obsessed with how these turned out! Stay tuned for part two to see the marble dyed shirts! Thanks for joining and tag me if you try it out for yourself! Perfect for recycling old tees. I can’t wait to see your acid wash designs.
]]>Would you try one?
I know - intimate questions! I've heard they can bring great relief to people suffering bad period cramps. Naturally, I had to personally give them a try.
I have been wary of them for a while. I didn't fully understand how suppositories worked. I'm also particularly sensitive and have totally abandoned even using tampons. When I was asked to take a look at Hello Again, I wasn't entirely on-board at first. I already had a bad experience with a previous suppository brand before I even got to try the product. It left a sour taste in my mouth and I was hesitant to go down that road again. I didn't want my story and my battle with endometriosis to just be used for a marketing campaign.
I did some research on the founders and loved their story. I also admired the care they took in reaching out and making sure this would be a good product for me!
After careful consideration, I was ready for Hello Again to pop my suppository cherry.
Hello Again is targeted toward women going through menopause and claims to assist with helping boost your mood and energy while also helping regulate hot flashes and addressing vaginal dryness. The suppositories are made of natural botanicals, CBD and THC. I don't usually use THC and CBD items with other botanicals but I was intrigued by Hello Again's formula. They seem keen on the entourage effect and the belief that CBD, THC, and specific plant terpenes and components work best together.
As I was getting my period and beginning to experience cramping, it was the perfect moment to give it a try. I unwrapped the daytime suppository and shoved it up there! Like - way up there.
After a full-day experience, I was able to manage my symptoms better with Hello Again. I still experienced some extremely mild cramping but nothing is totally a cure! Remember, it's all about management. Pain from endometriosis can be different than period cramps and feels much sharper. But I did feel some relief from that which is usually impossible. It absolutely helped with inflammation and soften the blow of cramping.
You can see my first day below on my YouTube channel or visit my Instagram TV for more!
]]>
CBD flower has been a huge part of my lifestyle shift. I’m originally from Maryland and had never heard of CBD flower until my move to LA. A whole new world of access opened up to me! Finding trustworthy CBD is hard Fènix CBD
Cannabidiol Enter Fènix CBD! I know the team behind the brand personally and have grown to absolutely love their flower because of their transparency, local cultivation and quality product.
Transparency
Finding lab results for Fènix CBD isn’t hard! Each strain’s test is organized in a user-friendly manner on their website. There’s also information on the packaging, too. Fènix utilizes third party testing to make sure your CBD flower is free of pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
Local Cultivation
It’s important to know where your product is coming from! If you know me, you know that I love to encourage shopping with local small businesses. There’s more control over the supply chain and you can trust the quality. Fènix sources directly from fully licensed farms!
Quality Product
My top strains are Fènix’s Blueberry Muffin, Elektra Kush, Sour Space Candy and Dolce Haze. I especially love the taste and smell of the Blueberry Muffin. It has an amazing blend of blueberry and earthy undertones. The flower is hand trimmed to preserve the flower and terps! This is my preferred method personally.
Informative and Involved
Fènix goes the extra mile to not only supply the best product but also to supply their users with information about the product. This is so important to me! CBD is so new to consumers and they need all the information they can get. There isn’t a one size fits all description for various products and Fènix knows how to deliver educational tools to their fans through their newsletter and weekly livestreams.
So, why do we shy away from talking about it? I was always self conscious when it happened and how frequently it was happening. Especially if new partners came into my life - how do I discuss something like this with them? Constant antibiotics were an adjustment and I began to suffer from side effects.
As I have delved deeper into my health journey, I have been learning which supplements and routines work for my body. Not only after the fact but also as preventative measures. It is important to maintain your body and not rush the healing process because UTIs can lead to much bigger issues down the road.
During the worst time of my life, pre-diagnosis of Endometriosis, I was constantly at the University of Maryland health clinic for UTIs. I distinctly remember screaming in pain on the floor of my apartment and one of my friends trying to help me through it. Eventually, I was sent back to my primary doctor for treatment since I lived in-state. From there, I was given a lifetime prescription of antibiotics. I thought this was the solution until about a year ago.
I started speaking more openly about my issues and found a wealth of knowledge in return. The following are routines and supplements I use for myself. I am NOT a doctor. If you are thinking of drastically changing your routine, please consult with your physician first. This is what has largely worked for me. After my diagnosis, my UTIs slowed down but not completely. They would come out of “nowhere” or if I was even remotely dehydrated or after sex, I could just FEEL it coming. And if you’ve experienced UTIs like I have, you KNOW what I’m talking about.
If you have any comments, questions or suggestions of your own I’d love to here them!
WATER, WATER AND MORE WATER
I KNOW water is not a supplement but this is THE most important thing when it comes to preventing and curing a UTI. Water is crucial for flushing out the infection as well as preventing your body from developing an infection. Trust. Drink the water. Just do it. I try to drink 100 fluid ounces a day and you should, too! Your body will thank you.
PEE! (SERIOUSLY?!)
Seriously. Also not a supplement but very important. If you are sexually active - GET IT GIRL - pee before and ESPECIALLY after sex. Make sure you are sleeping with someone you are comfortable enough to share a HEALTHY routine with! It is so important to share that connection with someone who is on a level of understanding with you. This way, everyone can have a super fun sex life YAY. Also we all have sex or want to have sex so if you’re blushing at this - get over it! Where do you think you came from?!
ANTIBIOTICS
Clinton and Bey wanna carry hot sauce but I’m the Antibiotics queen! You know these bad boys are jiggling away in my purse. SO FUN. This is a prescription I always have on hand but try not to rely on. I currently have a standing prescription for Nitrofurantoin or more commonly known as Macrobid. Side effects with prolonged use can be pretty gnarly, especially when it comes to nausea, weight gain and gut health. Talk to your doctor about your relationship with antibiotics! They may not be the answer every time!
HARMONY
This supplement has been a LIFE SAVER and I’m not kidding. Just read some of the reviews on Amazon. When I was truly starting to ween myself off of antibiotics, this was truly what changed the game. Why? It contains D Mannose and Hibiscus Extract. D Mannose is known for it’s help in the battle of feminine health care and assists in flushing impurities. It also helps prevent bacteria from sticking to the lining of your urinary tract. When I was recommended this product, I was slightly skeptical but I still am amazed at the results.
You can find it here on Amazon!
(BTW I am not an affiliate for any of these products, not even on Amazon. I will disclose when/if I am. I honestly do not know if I believe in affiliate programs for items like this because I genuinely just want to put the information out there and I would hate to gain money off of something that doesn’t actually help you.)
OREGANO PILLS
Another fan favorite. Me being the fan and it’s definitely my [second] favorite. Now be careful with these! Oregano pills shouldn’t be taken in the longterm, although I’ve seen arguments for both long and short term use and associated risks. Oregano is essentially Mother Nature’s most natural antibiotic. It also assists in warding off yeast infections! Be careful taking this right with your pro-biotic as it can affect your gut health. I personally have been using these since December with my regular routine and find it extremely beneficial.
Read more about the benefits of Oregano Oil here!
You can find the kind I use on Amazon here!
CRANBERRY PILLS
This has been a hotly debated supplement for the prevention and treatment of UTIs. On it’s own, I haven’t had much luck with it in the “curing” department but I highly recommend it for prevention! Cranberries do contain an active ingredient that can prevent adherence of bacteria to the bladder wall, particularly E. coli. But that doesn’t mean to start chugging the nearest sugar-filled Cranberry Juice! Make sure you are getting the RIGHT kind of cranberries or you’ll end up with a buttload of sugary crap.
I take the Azo Cranberry pill supplement from Amazon here!
FISH OIL
Omega 3 Fatty Acids assist in reducing inflammation. This pesky side affect is what makes that burning sensation and every other symptom of a UTI 10x worse. Fish Oil also helps with other aspects of your health as well, especially your heart!
I use Kirkland Fish Oil which can also be purchased on Amazon here!
VITAMIN D
While this doesn’t necessarily assist with UTIs directly, it is helpful to take a Vitamin D while your body processes these other supplements. It helps absorb calcium and promotes bone strength which can translate to cramping. Vitamin D is a great supplement for women who are at risk of developing osteoporosis as well.
I use Nature Made from Amazon here!
VITAMIN B
Feeling particularly slumped with your UTI? Vitamin B is on the way to help! Stress hormones add tension to your metabolic processes and your body begins using more Vitamin B to keep you going, but ultimately leaves you feeling in a fog. Vitamin B is a great way to get your body balanced and promote healthy energy while you beat the UTI! WOOHOO GO YOUR BODY YAH!
I use Kirkland B-Complex from Amazon which you can find here!
PRO-BIOTICS
If you are taking antibiotics at any point, you MUST take a pro-biotic! These are GOOD bacteria! Straight from the Urogynecology of University of Colorado:
“One area where probiotics have been studied is in women with recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs). A UTI results from the transmission of pathogens from the rectum and/or vagina to the urethra and bladder. Lactobacillus is recognized as an important part of the normal flora in the female genitourinary tract and the reduction in numbers increases the risk of UTI.”
In less words, the good bacteria beats the bad bacteria and helps protect and promote the natural flora in women.
Then you ask - What the hell is natural flora?!
“Gut flora, or gut microbiota, or gastrointestinal microbiota, is the complex community of microorganisms that live in the digestive tracts of humans and other animals, including insects.”
Thanks, Wikipedia!
I get mine from Culturelle here on Amazon!
MAGNESIUM GLYCINATE
This type of magnesium is easier for our body to absorb and is known for having less side effects compared to other magnesium supplements. Make sure you do your own research and consult with your doctor on WHEN and HOW to take your supplements. I know it’s easiest to just take them all at once but your body absorbs things differently at different times. Make sure you are doing your due diligence here because otherwise, these supplements will be less helpful and a big waste of money!
]]>Favorite gummy right now? Camino gummies from Kiva Confections! Embrace the California vibes with these treats. “Camino” is aptly named after the notorious El Camino Real. Even the art on the packaging is reminiscent of California’s beautiful vineyards and abundant landscape.
Edibles honestly used to scare me. I have had a few bad experiences! Either they don’t work at all and it’s a waste of money or they are way too strong. I went over two years not eating edibles because I was so turned off from my last bouts with them.
Kiva’s Camino gummies in sparkling pear are a true fix for anyone trying to delve back into edibles! They are an extremely unconventional THC:CBD breakdown. Each gummy is 2 mg THC and 6 mg of CBD. Perfect for people looking for an uplifting yet calming effect. CBD helps alleviate anxiety while the THC gives you a subtle and buildable high.
For someone with a low tolerance, this is a great gummy to get to know your body with. I also love the flavor! They also aren’t too high in calories and sugar - bonus points!
I used Ganja Goddess Delivers to get my gummies and it’s now my favorite service yet. They have an amazing selection from topicals to flower to high end concentrates. Creating your account is seamless and you can get delivery day of or next day! I love how quickly my first order came after they verified my age through submitting my drivers license. They came in ice packs, too. I love that attention to detail considering it’s been so hot. And no one needs melted gummies!
]]>Navigating the new world of medical and recreational marijuana can be daunting. Every state is completely different and everyone is operating in a federal grey area. It is important to stay informed, especially if you want to or currently work in the industry. But where can you find trustworthy information? Here are a few of my favorite sources! This blog will be updated with additions as new resources surface. Feel free to comment below your favorite resources!
If you’ve met me, there’s a 50% chance I’ve told you to check out WeedWeek and sign up for the newsletter. I saw Alex Halperin speak at an event and from that point on I have remained a loyal subscriber. Their newsletter features an incredible amount of actual information, links,
Leafly has an enormous amount of content to help consumers understand their products. Whether it’s live product or smoking accessories, Leafly has the jump on it. I particularly like their newsletter and layout for researching strains. Keep your eye on Leafly as they build out of LeaflyTV featuring the likes of favorite influencers such as Sasha from Silenced Hippie!
This caters to more of the business side of the cannabis industry. They also are in charge of the infamous MJBizCon, feature an industry directory, a magazine, MJBizTV and more helpful items for you to stay in-the-know. This year was the largest MJBizCon by a milestone by both vendors and attendees. As they add new features and segments, this will be an extremely strong informational source for business-savvy individuals.
This staple has been in the business long enough to see multiple stages of medical and recreational legalization. Their first official publication was in 1974 and has been paving the way for consumers and industry members alike. High Times is first and foremost a magazine, but has also evolved with the generational changes. One notable name that has helped during the brand’s evolution has been Danny Danko. He has a very grounded and knowledgable perspective, especially on the subject of cultivation. Not only does High Times have a long list of talent, they have grown an extremely active social media presence, they produce live streams, host massive events and recently launched High Times TV. If you’re poking around the site, you’ll be able to check out a number of informative collections but they particularly have the jump on latest news, grow information and new products to try. One last item that is unique to the High Times name is their latest endeavor. High Times’ investment venture creates a more accessible investment opportunity for those looking to expand their portfolios in the cannabis world. You can find their SEC filings and Reg A+ Offering Circular here.
If you are looking for more localized cannabis news, LA Cannabis News is your one-stop-shop! The online publication brings readers relevant news items, information on brands, events and more. You can also find potential job opportunities and general coverage on the culture. My favorite part about this website is that they are building out their own resource list! I cannot wait until this is fully developed because the more knowledge shared within the community, the better!
Navigating CBD is a monster. It seems like there is a new brand popping up daily - especially due to the prevalence of white labeling. Great CBD Reviews releases tons of informative posts on various brands that allow consumers to make more informed decisions. Their site is currently undergoing some maintenance but their Instagram feed serves as an excellent supplementary source, and subsequently a community gathering.
]]>Did you have to get your wisdom teeth out as an adult?
I was told when I was young I would never have to get my wisdom teeth removed.
LIARS!
Fast forward to 27, sitting in a dentist chair due to headaches and a weird, persistent pain in my right upper gum. The time had come. I needed all four wisdom teeth removed.
My gum had already been compromised around my right upper tooth and was trapping food. Gross. I had an infection.
My other three wisdom teeth were impacted and growing in at the wrong angle, pushing my teeth out of alignment. With a packed work schedule, an upcoming friend’s wedding and health insurance switching over at the end of the month, timing was less than ideal.
While this is a fairly common procedure, there's a massive recovery process that varies for everyone. Especially as an adult, it was something I didn't want to experience. But I do love Netflix and ice cream!
Luckily, I went through the worst way to get my wisdom teeth out, so you don’t have to.
Here are my top tips and regrets when getting my wisdom teeth removed from consultation to recovery.
CONSULTATION
QUESTIONS Prepare a list of questions and any concerns!
RESEARCH Make sure you do your research and read reviews on your surgeon.
SECOND OPINION Get a second opinion if you can afford it (I personally could not but always advocate for yourself and get a second and even third opinion if you can do it.)
DOLLA DOLLA BILL YALL Go over your pricing options and what your insurance will cover. Do NOT leave this in the hands of someone else. Be extremely involved in the payment process to avoid hidden charges and mystery fees. Keep in mind anesthesia is more expensive and can add anywhere between $400 and up to $1,000 to your initial cost. It is also more expensive if your teeth are impacted or in weird places. With my insurance, I paid about $1,450 out of pocket not including the consultation.
TAKE TIME OFF Schedule your procedure on a Thursday or Friday so you can use the weekend to rest. As an adult, this surgery is going to be harder on you and more draining. But every person is different. Listen to your body! I recommend blocking out a full 7 days to fully recover if you’re going under and getting them all removed.
LAND DOWN UNDER If you’re getting more than one tooth removed, get general anesthesia. I have a fairly high pain tolerance and have heard mixed opinions on whether or not to go under. But I personally wanted to be fully out since I had the issue with my right upper tooth and the other teeth were impacted.
PREPARING FOR SURGERY
SMOKING Don’t smoke 12 hours before the surgery. In the spirit of total transparency, I did smoke cannabis the night before but I would absolutely never encourage someone else to do this. Ultimately, your body, your choice. Discuss with your doctor your habits, medications, alcohol use - especially if you’re getting general anesthesia.
PRIOR PAIN MEDICATIONS Tylenol is one of the ONLY pain medications you can take before going under general anesthesia and my nurse recommended to not take it 12 hours before your procedure. DO NOT take Advil and always consult with your doctor. I personally was starting my period the night before I was going in for surgery. I was in an insane amount of pain.
FOOD & DRINK GUIDELINES Follow the rules on no eating and drinking 12 hours before the procedure if you’re getting general anesthesia.
SURGERY CLOTHING Wear a short sleeved shirt and loose, comfortable clothing. Also wear something you don’t mind getting dirty and drool-covered.
TRAVEL Make sure you have a ride with a good sense of humor! You’ll want to capture all your goofy moments after the procedure is wrapped up.
MEAL PLAN Plan your meals and go grocery shopping. Don’t leave this until the last minute!
ICE, ICE BABY Get extra ice packs or ask if your surgeon will provide you with one. Ask for a jaw bra - it will save your life. I was greedy and asked for two so while I was using one, the other could be re-freezing.
HEAT IT UP Get a heat pad, too. I really liked having the contrasting temperatures for different aches and pains.
CLEAN + ORGANIZED I was OUT of it and really thanked past me for cleaning and organizing my room. Make your bed cozy and get any big tasks done before the surgery. It’ll be hard to function with the amount of pain you’ll be in and the pain medication you’ll be on.
SIDE EFFECTS Talk to your doctor about the side effects of your pain medications and antibiotics! I cannot stress this enough!!! Pain medication and antibiotics MESS with my stomach. Ask for recommendations on pro-probiotics, supplements and stool softeners to make your recovery as smooth as possible.
YOU NEED THIS Ask for the water dropper for easier rinsing. My nurse was trying to explain it to me when I just got out of surgery and I kept telling her I didn’t understand so she NEVER included it! I didn’t find out until much later that was even a thing! It would have made my life 1000 times easier to clean after meals.
SMALL + SOFT Get a small, soft tooth brush. Harder, larger brushes and bristles will be too abrasive.
POP THE PAIN AWAY Have your doctor prescribe your meds and pick them up BEFORE your surgery. My doctor didn’t prescribe it until after and luckily my amazing boyfriend figured it out but it’s not something you want to be waiting on.
SURGERY DAY
YOU’RE NOT OK You’ll THINK you feel good because of the anesthesia but make sure to start taking your pain medication right away to get ahead of the oncoming aches.
SLEEP POSITION Position yourself and your pillows so you aren’t sleeping on either side of your face. You will wake up in so much pain!
SLEEP AND SLEEP SOME MORE Get as much sleep as possible!
FLUIDS Try to drink plenty of water, it will make you feel more full.
EATING First day foods should be soft or liquid. I opted for cooler foods like ice cream, cool soup and applesauce.
STIFF MOUTH You’ll have a really hard time opening your mouth so don’t force it but try to move it as much as you can so it doesn’t feel too stiff later in your jaw.
NO RINSING Don’t rinse the day of but after begin rinsing and make sure you have the special prescription mouth rinse!
DAY TWO, THREE, FOUR AND ON
CONSISTENCY IS KEY Be consistent with your medication to avoid heavy pain. Day 2, 3 and 4 were the worst for me pain and swelling-wise.
SECOND SECOND OPINION Get a second opinion if you feel you need one on your recovery! I loved my surgeon but I know people who weren’t as lucky and found issues later in life from bad practices. If you think your surgeon botched it, find someone else ASAP to take a second look and make sure you’re healing properly.
DO GO BACK Don’t hesitate to go back! I went back TWICE because I wanted to make sure I was ok to fly and I also felt pain for longer than I felt was acceptable. It turned out I did have a small infection! I got a pack of antibiotics and was cleared up at the end of the script. Don’t ignore your body!
BE AWARE You’ll be on antibiotics so be aware if you plan on drinking alcohol, take birth control or plan on doing any beauty procedures. Typically you need to wait two weeks to be off antibiotics for some procedures and treatments! It also really affects your drinking tolerance and can make you black out so be aware!
EAT YOUR GREENS I am a cannabis consumer and I waited two weeks to smoke again. Honestly, I wish I waited another week longer. I did still consume THC and CBD through tinctures, soft gels and sublingual strips. It really assisted with my eating and nausea from the pain meds! I also live in the legal state of California and reside in Los Angeles.
NOTE: I AM NOT A DOCTOR! THIS IS MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE AND THINGS I WISH I HAD KNOWN GOING INTO SURGERY. THIS IS NOT INTENDED AS MEDICAL ADVICE. PLEASE CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR AND SURGEON FOR YOUR OWN TREATMENT AND RECOVERY PLAN!
]]>
The holidays have officially come to an end. If you’re like me, all the fun and travel ultimately led to lack of sleep, total upheaval of your routine, dehydration and elevated stress levels. Enter the inevitable cold. YAY! We love being sick when trying to conquer the world! In an effort to give my body some TLC, I’ve temporarily parted ways with my favorite combustibles. Instead, I’ll be opting for these non-smokeable options to let my respiratory system recover.
Edibles are a classic solution to a smokeless dose. I enjoy edibles while I’m sick because they help me fall asleep, stimulate my appetite and reduce my nausea from medications.
Edibles can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to feel their full effects. Absorption of edibles begins in the digestive tract which then enters the bloodstream and travels to the liver. The active THC ingredients are then metabolized in the liver before releasing back into the bloodstream and entering the brain. Only after this process occurs, can you feel the effects of an edible. Edibles can be unpredictable, so be careful with their dosing.
Gummy edibles are my go-to! They are lower in calories and sugar compared to brownies, chocolates and other medicated treats. I’ve also found them easier to dose with, especially with new “micro-dose” products in the California market. I can find edibles that are 3.5 mg, 4.5 mg, 5 mg among other variations. The ones I find most effective are THC:CBD ratios for an entourage effect and heavy indica formulas.
CURRENT FAVORITES
WYLD Marionberry and Peach
PLUS Products Blackberry Lemon and Concord grape
KIVA Camino Sparkling Pear and Wild Berry
If you like the effects of edibles but want a more discreet way to dose, soft gels are a great solution. Cannabis oil soft gels have a slower onset but lasts longer. Its lingering effects especially help me stay asleep. Their dosing is typically more accurate from my personal experience and there is no odor. Traditional edibles can still be pungent!
Make sure you watch your intake here! 10-20 mg of high potency distillate can be intense, even for seasoned cannabis experts.
Soft gels work like edibles and must be digested to feel their effects. I particularly prefer them as I’m recovering. I can dose discreetly on-the-go to meetings, work and see friends with no smell, no mess, no smoke and no judgment.
CURRENT FAVORITES
AbsoluteXtracts ABX 10 mg Soft Gels
Care by Design 1:1 soft gels
I love cannabis tinctures while I’m sick because they are discreet, don’t have a strong odor, are faster-acting than edibles and low on calories. You can also dose easily with a dropper - but be careful of germs and touching a used dropper back in! Not that I have EVER made this mistake before …
Since most tinctures are water soluble, you can turn your favorite tea into a more uplifting blend. But keep in mind, you will not sublingually absorb the tincture! Since you’re drinking it, the cannabis oil must digest.
Tinctures are my go-to because of their fast-acting relief when absorbed sublingually. It enters your bloodstream quicker, giving it a competitive edge over an edible. They can take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour to set in. I notice a tincture after about 15-20 minutes and feel its full effects about an hour to two hours in. This depends on the tincture and amount taken.
Please note! There seems to be some controversy over whether or not you can actually receive the full effects of THC through sublingual administration. But there’s been several studies that show you can.
CURRENT FAVORITES
Care by Design 1:1
Papa and Barkley 30:1
Tabs are amazing for when you’re sick because they are fast-acting, absorb sublingually and are amazingly discreet. No odor! It’s like a tincture and soft gel in one. When I first tried a tab, I was extremely skeptical but I ultimately found this dosing method to be one of my favorites.
The effects and dosing are consistent, onset is quick and you can avoid the smoke and smell. These are the most discreet and fastest method of consumption. Just make sure you follow the instructions and let the tab melt fully under your tongue for 60 seconds before swallowing.
Current tab favorites
OLO Cannabis Chill Strips
Kin Slips Float On
Looking to relax in a warm bubble bath … with a little extra assistance? Medicated bath bombs are the answer! When your sick, it’s important to loosen up all that gunk! Bath bombs are often infused with essential oils like peppermint, lavender and eucalyptus. The steam from the bath plus the added benefits can help you breath a little easier.
According to a few sources, THC from a topical will not enter the bloodstream and instead enters through your dermis, but is not strong enough to break the barrier. Ultimately, this means it will not enter your bloodstream to reach your brain. You won’t experience psychoactive effects or a “high” from a medicated bath bomb alone.
From my personal experience, if you choose a heavy bath bomb at 250 mg or higher, you will feel more relaxed after soaking for about 45 minutes to an hour.
There are always exceptions to the rule. Especially if you’re a woman, there are certain areas of our bodies that are extremely absorbent. Until there is more research on topicals and bath bombs, please be wary if you get drug tested for work.
I don’t currently have any bath bomb favorites to recommend and would love to hear some suggestions in the comments for ones to try! The one pictured below was so soothing BUT it turned my bath tub and ME completely BLUE. I was a total smurf after soaking in this and had to scrub myself and the bathtub down for hours - so we’ll leave this brand unnamed.
Creams, balms, rubs and salves are great for opening up your sinuses. I love rubbing a THC salve on my chest when I’m feeling congested and tight. It’s like VICKS but better. It helps relieve the soreness and assists me in breathing a bit easier without all the wheezing.
Salves are great for when your sick because you can experience relaxation and relief without an intense high. When I’m sick, I often experience brain fog and don’t need any extra psychoactive effects. This is especially true when I’m taking medications that already make me drowsy.
Make sure you read all the ingredients and how much THC is in the formula. I tend to stay away from low-dose, high-menthol formulas because I personally do not like an intense cooling effect. I personally look for salves with spearmint over peppermint because peppermint contains more menthol. This is entirely personal preference!
CURRENT FAVORITES
Care by Design 1:1 pain cream
Papa and Barkley Hemp Infused Balm 180 mg CBD
Other smokeless items include:
Sprays
Suppositories
Patches
I have heard mixed feelings toward each, but wanted to share the options with you in case you’d like to do your own research!
This information is for patients and consumers in legal states that are over the ages of 18/21. This is not medical advice from a doctor. These anecdotes are from my own personal experience. Please speak with your doctor about cannabis and CBD as they may react with your current medications.
]]>Times are weird, man! Let’s be real - you’re binge watching a sh*t ton of content right now. Why not pair your top female-led shows with your favorite strains?
The future AND plant are female, after all. Given I’m a total expert, I have the perfect female lead shows for you to watch so you can still feel empowered from your couch. I paired them with my favorite ways to consume! Here’s my ultimate Netflix and Chill guide.
With an emphasis on the chill.
The Royals (Amazon Prime)
If you’re like me and constantly chasing the high of Gossip Girl, The Royals is a binge-worthy watch. The Royals is a modern and fictional take on Britain’s most glamorous family. Watch as this devious household works to keep their internal and external hierarchy. If Elizabeth Hurley’s early 2000’s bandage dresses don’t do it for you, Jake Maskall as Prince Cyrus surely will. His wild antics make him lovable despite his other evil behaviors. Trust me, you won’t regret watching this royal family navigate treacherous waters. You’ll want a giggly, light effect from your product for this overly dramatic watch. I highly recommend one of Wyld Edibles’ CBD blends in Pomegranate or Peach for your viewing pleasure. They will give you an uplifting and bubbly feeling without being too couch-locked.
Vanity Fair (Amazon Prime)
Another British show that I adore! Its single season makes for a quick yet meaty watch. Nothing like rooting for a clever underdog! Becky Sharp isn’t the richest woman but makes up for her empty wallet with her street smarts. School girls during the Napoleonic Wars learn what it takes to make it as society women and what it takes to ultimately stay on top. The show’s fast-pace and feel-good ending will leave you feeling warm and uplifted. Especially if you pair your viewing with Care By Design’s 1:1 tincture! Take one to two droppers before you start and you’ll feel yourself ease into warmth and coziness through all of Becky’s adventures.
Gossip Girl (Netflix)
I love Gossip Girl. Period. I have rewatched this series an embarrassing amount of times. I’m totally a Blair and to this day look for an excuse to wear an overly embellished headband. Gossip Girl has drama, unrequited love and absolutely amazing fashion. Not to mention I can revisit my original high school playlists through their incredible series soundtrack. Winning all around! For this decadently delicious show, you’ll want something that leaves you bubbly and ready for ALL the tea to be spilled. Yummi Karma Dessert Drops are a tasty and fun match to this classic series.
Grace and Frankie (Netflix)
Get your glass and flower ready because you’ll be smoking like Frankie while watching this wholesome pick! I started watching with my mom and it’s the perfect bonding show if you’re isolated with a roommate or family member. You can even see who’s the Grace and Frankie of your group! Maybe they’ll even want to smoke along with you - it’s a pandemic, you never know! Bubbling bong sounds might as well be a required part of your viewing experience! To smoke along like our earthy friend, I recommend a heavy, kief-covered strain from 3C Farms and a massive Daily High Club bong to match.
Dynasty (Netflix)
The Carringtons make modern money and murder look so good! Between Fallon constantly fighting for her father’s approval, her brother’s pervasive drug battle, and musical chairs mommy, there is no shortage of entertainment. While the show is honestly pretty goofy, it’s an easy watch that you don’t fully need to be mentally there for. Perfect for drowning out the day’s latest depressing-ass news. It’s a series you can nap to, browse through your phone or be on your laptop during. It’s just not that serious. So grab a fun and uplifting edible - you’ll need it for this family’s antics. I recommend KIVA Camino Sparkling Pear to achieve a light and buildable effect as you delve into the Carrington’s world.
Dickinson (Apple TV)
I know, I know - who even has Apple TV?! Turns out, my roommate does. That’s how I got to binge this epic take on Emily Dickinson’s formative years. I mean, Wiz Khalifa plays Death! How could you NOT consume during this hilarious period drama-comedy? If you’re the moody and misunderstood brooding-type, you’ll want to pair this series with a hemp-wrapped blunt and a relaxing strain that will keep you mellow through Emily’s trials and tribulations. I recommend a classic OG strain to go with this young author-based series.
Handmaids Tale (Hulu)
The Handmaids Tale is starting to look way closer to reality than I’m comfortable with! Luckily, it’s just a show - for now. While following June’s epic adventures in the world of Gilead, you’re going to want to keep your anxiety at bay. A CBD-only blend will give you a cozy feeling when you’re at the edge of your seat. You won’t experience psychoactive effects so you can follow easily along. Buddha Beans has incredible hemp-derived CBD Chocolate Caramels with Burundi Coffee shavings that have become a total comfort food for me. Your sweet tooth will thank you!
Shrill (Hulu)
Watch as Annie finds her voice and self-confidence in this empowering comedy starring SNL’s Aidy Bryant. Annie is a quirky gal who is done with being treated as less than because of her weight. While she takes the reins on life, you can sit back, relax, and laugh with this lovable lead as she learns what life really has to offer. You’ll want a fun, uplifting pick that’s also natural. Professor Snook’s Harlequin 2:1 tincture uses the WHOLE plant and nothing but the plant and that’s on God.
VEEP (HBO)
Honestly, Selina Meyer could have used some CBD - ASAP! Even though she’s usually surrounded by total incompetence, Selina knows how to get the job done and make us laugh along the way. I imagine she would totally have the COVID-19 situation handled if she were still in charge. While watching this hilarious series, enjoy some CBD flower from Fenix! You’ll be able to relax without the high and closely follow Selina’s sneaky maneuvers, You’ll need to pay your full attention to VEEP to know what’s going on!
30 Rock (Hulu)
The name “Liz Lemon” is synonymous with “get shit done.” 30 Rock is an absolute classic comedic series with quite possibly one of the best casts on television. Liz Lemon leads this quirky pack with her witty sarcasm, clever puns, and unconventional yet motivational work tactics. For every go-getter out there, Ardent is here to help. With Ardent’s Nova FX, you can DIY your own edibles because every Liz Lemon knows if you want it done right, you have to do it yourself!
]]>
4/20 is coming! Even though we’re all inside, we can still celebrate while cannabis remains essential in Los Angeles. Uncertain times have brought on elevated stress and anxiety levels - for me personally, my pain management has been a nightmare. Luckily, we’ve still had access to dispensaries but I’ve noticed prices rapidly increasing. That’s why I’m bringing you the best places to shop and brands with the best deals!
Please be safe! Don’t sesh in large groups - the only person you can puff, puff, pass to is yourself. If you do choose to shop, please observe social distancing practices, wear gloves and a mask! Preferably choose delivery or curb-side pickup, tip big and be respectful.
New Amsterdam Naturals in Culver is by far one of my favorite dispensaries! Prices are great, there’s amazing brand variety and they keep their inventory fresh. I go here all the time, especially for KIVA edibles and 710 Labs sauce. This West Side store has some of the best deals and I can’t wait to stock up on all my favorites.
Looking for an elevated dispensary experience? Typically, you enter The High Note through their hidden bookcase to a plethora of goodies. While you may not be able to experience the store in-person, they are an amazing dispensary to support during this time. They are also offering an additional 10% off purchases if you order online and pick up curbside. They also offer 25% off first-timers who sign up for their newsletter or SMS.
If you’re in downtown Los Angeles, High Season is also having some pretty lit specials! Two eighths for $60 is a mother f*cking steal! They are also master growers and have their own family of special flower. High Season will be offering delivery and curbside pickup as well. We love that!
Calexo will be 20% off all weekend from 4/18 until 4/20 at Sweet Flower Melrose & DTLA locations. Plus, Sweet Flower is doing a killer 420 deal on the 20th where the first 25 customers who order $100+ in delivery get a free tote bag of alllll sorts of goodies in it!
Heated blanket, hot pad, Advil and all the chocolate fudge. But it’s not the Holidays anymore! Forget Christmas, Crampsmus is the new wave. Most of your female friends celebrate once a month so be sure to respect their observance. Instead of sounding joy, jolts of pain shoot up - the cramps are after me with a vengeance. My periods are normally terrible BUT WHY is it THIS bad?!
My pain was so bad, I considered going to the ER to see if my IUD was positioned correctly. But after some quick searches from the ‘ol Google, I found the culprit. The Holidays.
Many who suffer Endometriosis symptoms go on special diets to help ease inflammation. This is easily derailed when you start shoveling pie, cookies, carbs and other inflammatory foods into your face. Combine that with hectic traveling, lack of sleep, family stress and last minute work deadlines. WAM BAM THANK YOU MA’M! Full blown agony. My body has been completely out of wack due to a depletion of micronutrients causing hormonal imbalance.
Here’s what I’m doing to get my body and hormones in check!
DETOX
I hate this word. I hate everything about detoxing and cleansing. But this isn’t geared toward weight loss, although it might help. These detoxes are specifically targeted to get your hormones back in balance. I don’t believe one plan fits all and is certainly something you need to work through with your own body and doctor. The top things that collectively need to go from my reading? Sugar, alcohol and grains.
There are some plans that are four short days, such as the one from Flo Living or plans as long as 21 days from Mind Body Green. According to Aviva Romm MD, we should be cutting out dairy, gluten, corn and sugar. I suggest also looking into a low FODMAP diet. There are multiple IBS symptoms Endo patients deal with or have full-blown IBS and may greatly benefit from this.
Unfortunately, caffeinated coffee is another item on the list that has come up frequently in my research. While I am completely addicted to coffee - it may be time to start cutting down on my morning vice.
I have more links below for resources - I used a good amount for this blog! We can learn together!
SUPPLEMENTS
It is important to give your body an assist! During your period, you need lots of Calcium, Vitamin D, Iron and more to give yourself a little extra help. I also take Probiotics, Magnesium Citrate to help with my sleep and cramping. On top of these supplements, I also take Oregano pills, Harmony D-Mannose capsules, Cranberry pills, Biotin and Fish Oil.
While they aren’t necessarily “supplements,” I also use CBD and THC during my period, but have actually noticed less is more. If I smoke too much THC, my pain is exacerbated! Make sure to slowly test your body and limits if pursuing this route.
While this sounds like a lot, there are drastic improvements for myself when I take supplements consistently through my period. I use this website to find out which are the best ones for me! While it’s not the most user-friendly interface, it is extremely informative. It has guided me to brands and supplements that are most effective and trustworthy. I have an entire blog coming out at the end of this month on UTI’s and supplements for a more in-depth dive into what I use and why. I will make sure to link once it’s live!
HYDRATE
Drink water - tons of it! I try to drink between 80 to 90 fl oz of water a day. When I am dehydrated, I absolutely notice my overall period experience getting worse. Drinking more water flushes out your system, reduces bloating, eases constipation and keeps your skin hydrated to help with the inevitable breakout.
SAY OHM
While exercise in general is amazing, Yoga and walks are what work best for me. Yoga specifically is the best exercise for those with cramps and achy period pains. Find a class that is healing and focuses on your pelvic region. I typically aim for a class with more floor work. Stretching out those muscles isn’t always easy and taking a class is a great way to decompress and loosen the tightness in your body.
If you’re on a budget or time crunch, you can find videos for free on YouTube and practice at home! I am still compiling a list of good ones, but please feel free to share your own in the comments.
GET SOME SUN
Gimme that D! Vitamin D, of course, you dirty bastards. Even if it’s freezing, make time to get outdoors and take a walk or, god forbid, shovel snow. Winter months keep us trapped inside and ultimately leads to less sunlight and less movement which can affect your flow.
]]>