The Cannavist Issue Four | Page 86

w BEAT THOSE winter blues Seasonal Affective Disorder, aka the winter blues, affects almost one third of Brits. Here are our picks on how CBD can help you get through those rainy days and dark evenings. With 57% of UK residents saying their overall mood is lowest during the winter season and 40% feeling more fatigued mid-winter than during the summer months, it is clear Britain needs to beat the winter blues. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is associated with reduced exposure to sunlight, which can impact the production of serotonin, melatonin and alter the body’s internal clock. The NHS advises one way to overcome seasonal depression is to make lifestyle adjustments such as managing stress levels and regularly exercising. These are two things CBD can help with, and here’s how. 1 Stress The natural calming properties of CBD have been widely reported and increasing numbers of people are taking supplements to tackle their stress levels. Serotonin, sometimes called ‘the happy hormone’ has mood- enhancing properties and is often associated with feelings of well- being. Reduced exposure to sunlight can affect its production in the body, making the probability of feeling down more common during the shorter days. Neurologist and Rehabilitation Physician, Professor Mike Barnes MD explains, “CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). We know that the ECS has an effect on overall calmness and CBD is a good treatment, amongst other things, for anxiety. It also interacts with other neural systems including serotonin and can improve sleep.” You can’t beat a great night’s sleep – doctor’s orders. 2 Exercise Exercise releases endorphins which can boost feelings of energy and euphoria, hence the phrase ‘runners high.’ Strong correlations between a reduction in depression after an increase of exercise have been proven, which is promising for those suffering from the winter blues. There are many CBD products designed to aid workout routines. Balms and muscle rubs soothe and relieve tired muscles by tackling inflammation, making the next day’s squat or sprint less painstaking. Oil drops ensure a fast delivery pre and post-exercise, making yoga no hard stretch.