BY: Danielle Sedgwick and Tiffany Nicole
Marijuana or also known as, cannabis, “Pot”, “Weed”, or “Dope” has been used in a variety of forms for thousands of years. Its hemp fibers can produce clothing or paper and more importantly, cannabis is world renowned for its natural healing properties. The most recent studies confirm it has even more benefits for the mind and the body than previously thought.
The first benefit to marijuana consumption is its ability to treat muscle spasms. A 1982 survey conducted that 21 out of 43 people with spinal cord injuries had less muscle spasticity after smoking marijuana. Muscle spasms are most experienced if you’re an athlete or by people with diseases like, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s.
The next benefit is improving sleep. Studies explain, those who suffer from sleep apnea, people experiencing disrupted REM sleep, or who have PTSD or who are even athletes, can be cured of their symptoms and permanently.
The 3rd benefit is improvement in athletic performance!
While “pot” smokers have struggled against the popular assumption that marijuana creates lazy, unmotivated and ignorant people, the fact is just the opposite of that. Nature Medicine, the peer-reviewed medical journal, completed a study confirming the positive effect on fitness experts. They have claimed a dramatic change in workout efficiency, creating a satisfying increase of mental focus, reduction in anxiety and provides access to a meditative “flow” state.
A former figure competitor and personal trainer, Danielle Sedgwick is certified by the National Academy of Sports Medicine in nutrition and functional diagnostics. Sedgwick currently serves as the Director of Strategic Partnerships for the Marijuana Industry Trade Association of Arizona and is the co-founder of nonprofit Leaf for Life, which helps veteran families dealing with PTSD and mental health.
Tiffany Shepard is a Creative Writing Graduate from Mesa Community College and an intern for MITA AZ, as well as an advocate for the legalization of marijuana.