My Personal Exploration of Cannabis for Pain Relief

Written by: KEELY DYER

As a deep thinker, enthusiastic herbalist, and energy worker living with four chronic pain conditions, I invite you on a journey to explore the profound reasons behind my use of cannabis and why I believe it could benefit more people in need.

First, let’s get a little nerdy. Scientifically, cannabis has been proven to reduce pain because our bodies are designed to be open to its healing properties through a structure of receptors known as the Endocannabinoid System or the ECS. The ECS is responsible for mood regulation, pain receptivity, immune and anti-inflammatory responses, among other things. Now, if you’re as fascinated by how the brain and body function as I am, this is where things get interesting. When THC and CBD from cannabis bind to these receptors, the entire ECS gets activated, leading to the overall homeostasis of the regulatory responses in our bodies. Sweet, sweet balance. Ahhhh.

All of this is wonderful (such a gift!) but cannabis does much more for our body's ability to perceive and mitigate pain than what we can study under the gaze of a microscope. In my humble opinion (and vast experience with cannabis) I have found that cannabis elevates my mind to a realm of curiosity, openness, calmness, and awareness.

Let me try to explain but preface with this: We are all different and individual results may vary, don’t operate heavy machinery, ask your healthcare provider and so on (you know the drill).

Simply put, life can be heavy and cannabis can make it lighter and more beautiful. For instance, when I see a green leaf, I don’t just see a green leaf. I take a moment to hold it up to the light and admire its system of veins and marvel at how similarly life pulses through humans as it does through plants, through all of life. (Enter a deep sigh of appreciation here.) When I cut open a cantaloupe, I realize that I get to be the first person to see the inside of THIS cantaloupe and I realize how fun that is! Such a privilege! When I drink water, I think of how ancient water really is and how often it has evaporated and been reborn as rain. And I get to be a part of this? How amazing! I can successfully untie the knots of life, literally and metaphorically, and I laugh freely and easily.

When I feel pain, I ask myself if there was an emotion that sparked it or perhaps my body is showing a need for rest or change. Is change as good as rest? Go find out! You’re the alchemist. Have fun and experiment with your perception of your experiences. Mostly, pay attention and be patient and graceful with yourself. Do I get a little paranoid sometimes? Sure, if I overindulge or try an incompatible strain. All things in moderation, right? Start slowly and learn your dose. Do your research, and always use clean medicine. Listen to your body.

Let’s face it, we all have pain. It plays an active role in the human experience. It’s even a painful truth. Yet, consider this: our capacity to feel pain might be intricately tied to our ability to experience boundless joy, love, and pleasure. While cannabis may or may not not deliver euphoria to such heights, it can open doors to transformative perspectives, helping us approach life's encounters with grace and receptivity. Pain becomes a message from our body and spirit, calling for attention and understanding. What is your pain telling you, and how can cannabis help you interpret its message?

Through the magic of cannabis, I've been freed from the grip of pain, soaring into the realms of boundless existence, leaving me in awe of life's possibilities. For me, that alone is potent medicine worth cherishing. So, my fellow adventurers, join me in exploring the wonders of cannabis and the wisdom it bestows upon us in our journey of healing and self-discovery. Enjoy!