Stress at work is something almost everyone can relate to. Tight deadlines, office politics, and a workload not even half done by 5 pm are just some of the sources of workplace stress that can affect both our precious physical and mental health. Plus, the feeling of being stretched thin doesn’t stop when we step out of the workplace. No no! We bring it with us, sharing the frazzle with families and friends. But what if there was a natural option that could help ease the compounding stress? Let me introduce CBD, your new silver bullet against stress, so you can continue excelling at work while still enjoying life.
What is CBD? And How Can It Help With Stress?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the many compounds known as cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Is it different from THC? Yes, very much so. THC is derived from marijuana and is psychoactive, meaning it makes you high. CBD, on the other hand, is most abundant in Hemp and is non-psychoactive. Therefore, you get all the benefits from its use without any mind-bending buzz.
Does CBD Really Reduce Stress?
Within the human body is a complex yet incredibly fascinating cell-signaling network called the endocannabinoid system, or ECS for short. It helps regulate various functions like sleep, appetite, pain, and immune system response using endocannabinoids, which are valuable chemicals produced naturally by our own bodies.
When CBD enters the body and interacts with the ECS, it can boost the effects of the endocannabinoids, helping them maintain balance, also known as the state of homeostasis, and reduce stress signals. This “working relationship” between CBD and the ECS leads to a calmer state of mind and reduced feelings of stress, among others.
CBD’s impact on stress management can be life-changing. However, the quality of the CBD product you use is ultra-crucial to achieving its maximum benefits. Choose a reputable source employing third-party lab testing, like Dutch Natural Healing, to make sure all the products are safe and effective. The brand is a trusted name in the industry and is known for its wide variety of organic CBD products made in Europe.
Is CBD Even Legal?
This all depends on your location.
In the US, CBD’s legal status is subject to state regulations, so different states have varying rules regarding CBD use. In general, you can legally use CBD as long as it is derived from hemp and contains 0.3% THC or less; a medical cannabis license may or may not be required. However, to be on the safe side, it’s best to check the regulations in your state first before buying or using CBD.
If you are in the UK or a European Union member state, CBD derived from hemp is legal as long as it contains THC that does not exceed 0.2%. Before you go and buy, however, know that in the UK, CBD products must also adhere to specific rules about how they are advertised and labeled. Meanwhile, in EU countries, the regulations for CBD vary—some require additional certifications, while others have stricter rules for marketing and selling CBD products. So, again, make sure to confirm the status and any requirements for using CBD before getting your hands on it.
How to Use CBD for Stress in the Workplace
Using CBD to manage stress at home is different when planning to use it in your workplace, especially when you wish to be discreet. Still, it can be both simple and effective.
There are several types of CBD products to choose from, each with different advantages, so it all depends on your needs and lifestyle preferences. CBD oil tinctures are sought after because they are easy to dose and the effects kick in quite quickly. With just a few drops under your tongue, you can calm your nerves before a big meeting. CBD capsules are another discreet option for workplace consumption. While the comfort won’t come fast, they provide consistent relief throughout the day, making them a great choice for keeping stress levels in check. As for CBD edibles, like gummies, beverages, and brownies, they offer a fun (or should I say delicious) way to add CBD to your busy work routine. They also won’t turn heads when consumed and are ideal for sustained relief. Note, though, that edibles typically do not have precise dosages, so potency may be per piece or serving. Lastly, if you suffer from stress-related muscle tension, you should have CBD-infused topical creams on hand to be applied directly to the affected areas to reduce discomfort, albeit after an hour or two.
No matter your choice, keep in mind to start with a modest dose and adjust gradually based on how your body responds. This ensures you manage workplace stress effectively and avoid or minimize any potential side effects that may disrupt your comfort and productivity.
Safety and Side Effects
Speaking of side effects, rest assured that CBD is generally considered safe. Still, it is not unheard of to cause fatigue, nausea, and irritability in some people, especially when consumed in high dosages. It can also interact with certain medications, so it’s best you speak to your doctor before starting CBD, urgently and before anything else if you have underlying health concerns or are taking other medications.
Additional Ways to Manage Stress
Combining CBD with healthy lifestyle choices can boost your overall health and wellness. No health improvement list is ever complete without mentioning maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, but do you know that doing so can also build up your resilience to stress? Add staying hydrated to avoid dehydration, which causes or exacerbates symptoms of stress.
Of course, regular physical activity is another fantastic way to relieve stress. Walking, yoga, or even stretching at your desk are just some of the activities that can help release endorphins, also known as the body’s natural painkillers and mood lifters. No time to exercise? No worries, as you can simply incorporate relaxation techniques, like deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness, to help ease your mind and reduce stress.
At the end of a long day, getting enough sleep (around 7-9 for adults) is vital in managing stress, too. This can improve your mood, make you more resilient against stress, and help your body rest and recover from the day’s activities.
Conclusion
CBD is arguably one of the most popular natural alternatives for managing stress, and for good reason. It is effective, especially when paired with healthy lifestyle habits, and comes with negligible side effects, if any, as long as used responsibly. Available in several different product types, this miracle herb is also discreet, so you can get your dose of this stress-busting compound even while typing away on your desk, surrounded by nosy officemates. Just remember to consult your trusted healthcare professional before adding CBD to your stress-managing toolkit to make sure it works for your well-being and not against it.
Also Read: 5 Tips for Managing Work and Life as an Entrepreneur
