By Michelle Diston - Certified Cannabis Coach and Educator

The Cannabis community often divides into distinct categories: medical and recreational, CBD and THC. There are many people who think that medical Cannabis is hemp-only products and are still afraid or stigmatized about getting ‘high’.

There are whole arguments for having a medical market only or recreational market only, but today, I want to talk about the medicine behind the ‘high’. This exploration delves into the fusion of medicine and therapy, where Cannabis intertwines with spirituality - a journey towards expanded awareness and connection with our spirit.

The definition of "spirit," from the Oxford Languages, encapsulates it as "the non-physical part of a person, serving as the seat of emotions, character, and soul, one's vital essence, inherently energetic in nature." This profound essence of spirit resonates deeply, particularly in my journey with Cannabis.

In the realm of holistic health and wellness, we're increasingly recognizing the importance of addressing not just our physical and mental health but also our spiritual well-being. This vital essence, mentioned in the above definition, is an integral part of who we are and can greatly influence our overall health.

Many people still view Cannabis as an “escapism” drug with preconceived prejudices around what Cannabis users look like. sound like, and talk like, thanks to the war on drugs, propaganda, and “stoner" stereotypes. Just the term “Medical Cannabis” is a conflicting statement against the US Drug Enforcement Agency’s Controlled Substances Act for Cannabis as a Schedule I (1) controlled substance, defined as “having a high potential for abuse, no currently accepted medicinal use in treatment in the United States, and a lack of accepted safety data for use of the treatment under medical supervision” 

Now that we have the ability to study Cannabis and its constituents, we have more evidence for its therapeutic uses. There are many studies showing how Cannabis can be used to balance our Endocannabinoid System for physical relief and for relief of many mental health conditions. Many people don’t talk about what they experience within the “high”. And maybe some people are not paying attention yet.

When You Explore the High

The journey to understanding one's spirit and its role in their life is deeply personal. It's about finding that inner essence that transcends our everyday roles and responsibilities. (We are more than what we do!) That existential question, "Who am I?" delves into the core of our character and the unique energy that defines us.

The “high” is a multifaceted experience that transcends the mere physical effects of the plant. It’s a journey that goes beyond the altered state of consciousness, delving into the realms of mindfulness and connection with the spirit. Cannabis, when used intentionally and with a mindful approach, can be a catalyst for spiritual exploration. It has the power to open doors to heightened awareness and a profound sense of connection with oneself, others, and the universe. The plant becomes a conduit for introspection, enabling individuals to tap into their inner wisdom and find a deeper sense of purpose. While in this state it is easier to build new neural connections through changing the way you look at something and reorganization of the neural network as defined as neuroplasticity (2).

Spirituality vs Religion

While some may associate spirituality with religion, it's important to recognize that spirituality can exist independently of religious beliefs as well as strengthen existing religious beliefs. It can be a deeply personal and introspective journey, one that involves exploring your values, purpose, and connection to the world around you.

This journey of rediscovering the self, putting us in touch with our deepest longings and truest feelings is an ode to the powerful potential of Cannabis as a spiritual and therapeutic tool.

The use of Cannabis in a spiritual context is not a recent phenomenon. Throughout history, various cultures have recognized the potential of this plant to facilitate a deeper connection with the non-physical aspects of the self, which is the seat of emotions and character, the soul. It is within this framework that we explore the fascinating interplay between Cannabis and spirituality.

Cannabis and the Endocannabinoid System

It's essential to understand the role of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) in the context of Cannabis and spirituality. According to Tammi Sweet in her book "The Wholistic Healing Guide to Cannabis," the ECS sets the baseline tone of well-being in which an individual operates. When healthy, the ECS creates a background signal that all is well and quietly hums as the other systems of the body go about their daily tasks.

The ECS, a complex network of receptors and endocannabinoids, plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and harmony within the body. It is responsible for regulating various physiological processes, including mood, appetite, pain perception, and immune function. When the ECS is in a state of balance, it contributes to an overall sense of well-being and emotional equilibrium.

Cannabis, as a plant rich in cannabinoids, interacts with the ECS. The cannabinoids found in Cannabis, such as THC and CBD, can influence the ECS by binding to its receptors. This interaction can lead to altered states of consciousness, where individuals often report a deepened connection with their inner selves and an enhanced capacity for introspection.

Historical and Cultural Perspectives

The association between Cannabis and spirituality can be traced back to ancient civilizations. In India, for instance, Cannabis is mentioned in sacred texts and has been used as an aid to meditation and spiritual exploration for centuries. Similarly, indigenous communities in the Americas maintained their own holistic system of care consisting of spiritual practices, plant-based medicines, and community involvement. We often fail to account for the histories, traditions, and ritualistic practices of indigenous people (3) whose contributions and expertise often go unnoticed and unrewarded in Western medicine. 

Cannabis and the Non-Physical Self

In the context of the non-physical self, Cannabis may offer unique benefits. Many individuals report that when they use Cannabis mindfully and with intention, sometimes with guided meditation or visualization, it can facilitate a deep emotional release and enhance self-awareness. It may encourage individuals to confront unresolved emotional issues, promoting a sense of catharsis and emotional healing. It is important to do this in a safe environment and have an integration plan, whether it is journaling, doing something creative, or talking it out with a friend, mentor, or therapist.

Cannabis has been used to enhance practices such as meditation and mindfulness, aiding in the cultivation of inner peace and tranquility. By reducing the noise of the external world, it can create an environment conducive to introspection and spiritual growth.

For some, Cannabis is regarded as a spiritual ally, a companion on their journey of self-discovery. It is seen as a tool that can help individuals unlock their inner potential and connect with their inner selves on a profound level. The plant's ability to heighten sensory perception (4) and induce a sense of timelessness aligns with the notion of experiencing the soul's energetic composition.

Contemporary Applications

Today, as Cannabis becomes increasingly destigmatized (we still have a long way to go) and its medicinal and therapeutic properties are being acknowledged, there is a growing interest in combining Cannabis with mindfulness practices, such as meditation and yoga (5). Cannabis Health Coaches and psychotherapists are exploring the potential of using Cannabis assisted therapy (6), with mindfulness and intention setting to uncover layers of complex trauma and mental health blocks. These approaches aim to harness the spiritual potential of Cannabis while promoting emotional breakthroughs.

Conclusion

Cannabis and spirituality share a long and intertwined history. The herb's capacity to alter consciousness and foster introspection can facilitate a profound connection with the non-physical self. Whether as an aid to meditation or as a spiritual ally, Cannabis has the potential to enhance the spiritual experience and personal growth. As the Cannabis industry evolves, it is crucial to continue exploring these connections, recognizing the holistic benefits it can offer to the human spirit.

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References

1. DEA. “Drug Fact Sheet: Marijuana/Cannabis - Dea.Gov.” Https://Www.Dea.Gov/, US Government, www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2020-06/Marijuana-Cannabis-2020_0.pdf. Accessed 30 Nov. 2023. 

2. Puderbaugh M, Emmady PD. Neuroplasticity. [Updated 2023 May 1]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557811/

3. George, Jamilah R., Timothy I. Michaels, Jae Sevelius, and Monnica T. Williams. "The psychedelic renaissance and the limitations of a White-dominant medical framework: A call for indigenous and ethnic minority inclusion". Journal of Psychedelic Studies 4.1 (2020): 4-15. https://doi.org/10.1556/2054.2019.015 Web.

4. Sumpter, Luke. “How Cannabis Affects the Five Senses - RQS Blog.” Royal Queen Seeds, www.royalqueenseeds.com/us/blog-how-cannabis-affects-the-five-senses-n1466. Accessed 1 Dec. 2023. 

5. Farmer, Veteran. “Incorporating Cannabis into Your Yoga or Meditation Practice.” St. Albert Gazette, Great West Media, 8 Mar. 2021, www.stalbertgazette.com/cannabis-weekly/incorporating-cannabis-into-your-yoga-or-meditation-practice-3523584#:~:text=Meditation%20is%20a%20critical%20practice%20to%20maintain%20not%20just%20mental%20health%20but%20physical%20health%2C%20as%20well.%20Including%20marijuana%20in%20your%20meditation%20routine%20is%20an%20easy%20way%20to%20get%20your%20mind%20in%20the%20right%20place%20and%20put%20daily%20stresses%20behind%20you%20for%20a%20while. 

6. Ragnhildstveit, Anya et al. “Cannabis-assisted psychotherapy for complex dissociative posttraumatic stress disorder: A case report.” Frontiers in psychiatry vol. 14 1051542. 9 Feb. 2023, doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1051542