While we may set the best intentions to take a moment to ourselves in quiet meditation, daily stress and the distractions of today’s fast paced world can make it difficult to stay fully present. But what if there was a way to enhance your meditation practice to deepen your inner connection? CBD and Delta-8 are natural compounds found in the hemp plant that have been shown to have numerous health benefits, including relaxation and focus. Combining them with other holistic meditation practices like yoga, acupuncture, massage, and aromatherapy can help you achieve a deeper state of mindfulness and connect with your inner self on a more profound level. 

What is Delta-8?

Delta-8 is a minor cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant that can produce feelings of euphoria and relaxation. It is believed to have several potential health benefits, including: 

• Pain Relief: Delta-8 may help to reduce pain and inflammation by interacting with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, which can help to reduce pain and discomfort during long meditation sessions.
• Improved Sleep: Delta-8 may help to improve sleep quality by interacting with the CB1 receptors in the brain and increase the levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and sleep. 
• Relaxation: Delta-8 may help promote a sense of calm. It does this by interacting with the CB1 receptors in the brain, which regulate mood and anxiety levels.
• Nausea reduction: Delta-8 may help to reduce nausea and stimulate appetite, making it potentially useful for individuals undergoing chemotherapy or suffering from conditions such as eating disorders or HIV/AIDS.
• Neuroprotection: Delta-8 may help to protect the brain from damage and improve cognitive function.  

What is the science behind CBD, Delta-8, and meditation?

While more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between CBD, Delta-8 and meditation, preliminary studies have shown promising results. CBD oil has been shown to improve concentration by acting on GABA receptors, potentially calming an overactive nervous system. This, in turn, allows you to remain in the meditation zone for longer and resist random thoughts that would otherwise cause you to fall out of that balance.

Studies have also shown that using CBD oil can directly lower blood pressure and facilitate slower breathing. This stimulates your parasympathetic system, which is responsible for feelings of calm and relaxation. CBD and Delta-8 can directly impact the body’s own cannabis-like mood-enhancing chemical, the endocannabinoid anandamide⁴. According to studies, CBD triggers the 5-HT1a serotonin receptor, which plays a role in relaxing for deeper meditation ².

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) also plays a role in regulating mood and emotions, which may explain why CBD and Delta-8 can enhance the effects of meditation. One study published in Translational Psychiatry found that CBD can increase activity in the prefrontal cortex, a region of the brain that is associated with attention and self-awareness. This increased activity may help to enhance the meditative state and promote a deeper sense of mindfulness. A study by Sadhasivam et.al. (2020) showed measurable increases in the ECS neurotransmitters with mindfulness meditation practices ⁴.

Figure One: Benefits of Mindfulness Practice ^2.

Image Source: ​​https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnins.2021.747229/full

‍

How do I choose the best CBD and Delta-8 products for meditation?

When it comes to using CBD and Delta-8 for meditation, it is important to consider the delivery method and dosing. CBD and Delta-8 can be taken orally in the form of capsules, tinctures, or gummies, and dosage and potency can vary widely among products. If you're new to CBD, it's best to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed. It's also important to choose a high-quality CBD product from a reputable source. Look for products that have been third-party tested for purity and potency like OLO RESTOR+ and PLAY+. 

Are CBD and Delta-8 safe?

While CBD is generally considered safe, there are some potential side effects to be aware of. These can include dry mouth, dizziness, and changes in appetite or mood. CBD can also interact with certain medications, so it's important to speak with your healthcare provider before using CBD, especially if you're taking any prescription medications. If you decide to try Delta-8, check to see if it is considered a controlled substance in your state and if it has any legal implications if consumed or possessed without a prescription. It is also important to consult with a healthcare provider before consuming any substances that may have potential health risks if pregnant or lactating.

CBD and Delta-8 can elevate your meditation practice and promote a deeper sense of inner peace. When used in conjunction with other relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and visualization, CBD and Delta-8 can help you achieve a more profound state of mindfulness and connect with your inner self on a deeper level. If you're interested in incorporating this into your meditation practice, be sure to start with a low dose and choose a high-quality product from a reputable source. With a little experimentation and patience, you'll be well on your way to finding the inner peace you've been searching for.

References

1. Using CBD to Take Your Meditation to the Next Level. https://meditation.studio/using-cbd-take-your-meditation-to-the-next-level/  

2. de Melo Reis RA, Isaac AR, Freitas HR, de Almeida MM, Schuck PF, Ferreira GC, Andrade-da-Costa BLDS, Trevenzoli IH. Quality of Life and a Surveillant Endocannabinoid System. Front Neurosci. 2021 Oct 

3. Abela R. 12/29/2022: Here’s Why Delta-8 is the Best Cannabinoid for Meditation. https://herb.co/learn/delta-8-thc-meditation/ 

4. Sadhasivam S., Alankar S., Maturi R., Vishnubhotla R. V., Mudigonda M., Pawale D., et al. (2020). Inner engineering practices and advanced 4-day isha yoga retreat are associated with cannabimimetic effects with increased endocannabinoids and short-term and sustained improvement in mental health: a prospective observational study of meditators. Evid. Based Complement. Alternat. Med. 2020 

5. Jacobs T. L., Epel E. S., Lin J., Blackburn E. H., Wolkowitz O. M., Bridwell D. A., et al. (2011). Intensive meditation training, immune cell telomerase activity, and psychological mediators. Psychoneuroendocrinology 36 664–681. 

6. Sharon H., Maron-Katz A., Ben Simon E., Flusser Y., Hendler T., Tarrasch R., et al. (2016). Mindfulness meditation modulates pain through endogenous opioids. Am. J. Med. 129 755–758.

7. Kwok J. Y. Y., Kwan J. C. Y., Auyeung M., Mok V. C. T., Lau C. K. Y., Choi K. C., et al. (2019). Effects of mindfulness yoga vs stretching and resistance training exercises on anxiety and depression for people with Parkinson disease: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA Neurol. 76 755–763

8. Ligresti A., De Petrocellis L., Di Marzo V. (2016). From phytocannabinoids to cannabinoid receptors and endocannabinoids: pleiotropic physiological and pathological roles through complex pharmacology. Physiol. Rev. 96 1593–1659.