So I know what you are thinking, how can medical marijuana even be compared to a massage? One is a physical therapy and the other more so of the senses, right? Or have you heard of marijuana-infused massage? After you read this article, you may think differently.
Getting a massage is considered a luxury by many people while some believe it’s a necessity for their wellbeing and it’s unsurprising why. If you think about it, they’re super relaxing, perfect after a long day, and highly- therapeutic. They are also great, especially if you suffer from chronic pain and anxiety. An hour of this can make a person feel rejuvenated and re-energized, but more importantly, relieved of their troubles and fatigue.
Medical marijuana is known to have very similar effects, pain relief, reducing stress and allowing patients to unwind and relax. So is one better than the other? Let’s take a look…
How Does the Body Interact with Marijuana Compared to a Massage?
The key difference here, as mentioned is that the Masseuse or therapist is relieving the symptoms with their hands or tools and medical marijuana is acting on the body within- activating the endocannabinoid system, engaging the sensors and receptors to provide the relief.
The purpose of a Massage is to relax muscle tissue and reduce pain and spasms. By applying pressure to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments the patient will feel relief from their ‘tightness’ or pain.
On the other hand, Medical marijuana provides pain relief, anti-inflammation, and relaxation via chemical reactions in the body. The process is a bit more scientific to explain. The Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD) chemicals in its genetic makeup, binds to the cannabinoid receptors in your body to create that relaxed and relieved feeling in your body.
It interacts with the central nervous system as well, that’s why a person who ingests the herb can feel the effects all over – literally from head to toe.
Marijuana vs Massage: Is One Better Than the Other?
A lot of people regularly get massages to combat certain muscle problems and chronic pain.
Massage therapy is known to be highly relaxing, and if applied with certain techniques, life-changing for those who always seem to experience pain in their muscles and bones. The most common after-effect is a sense of relaxation and enhanced energy.
Medical Marijuana is also providing relief to people with chronic illnesses or strenuous treatments which they may not be able to get from a massage.
So to make a decision if one is better than the other is actually impossible, instead, we see benefits in both. What we should be asking is the following…
Why Not Combined the Two, Marijuana-Infused Massage?
Who says that Marijuana and massage are two separate worlds? You’d be pleased to know that there’s such a thing as Marijuana-infused massage. In cities where medical marijuana is legal, there are some spas and therapy clinics that offer Cannabis massage. They use Cannabis-infused massage oils and those who have tried it said that they feel wonderful after one session.
These oils and lotions are called ‘Topicals’. They are Cannabis infused products which you can apply to your skin for relief of many symptoms.
When you apply topicals like lotions and creams on your body, the THC will only make contact with your skin, and in no way will it interact with your bloodstream. This method will provide soothing effects on your muscles and skin.
You are more likely to experience the effects through topicals, as the cannabinoid receptors are found on the surface of the skin.
A person getting a Marijuana-infused massage will not only experience the anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties, but they’ll experience sensory stimulation as well. That means that they’ll feel like their skin is on a “high.”
Additionally, your skin will feel nourished and renewed due to the herb’s antioxidant properties. Studies say that the herb’s THC and CBD content are 30-50% more effective that other antioxidants like Vitamin E and C.
Meirav Devash of Allure tried it out herself at LoDo Massage Studio in Denver, Colorado. She describes her experience as “ridiculously good.” She shares by saying that “I felt something between a runner’s high and post-coital bliss, along with the certainty that massage and marijuana go together like peanut butter and chocolate. And I could definitely go for a Reese’s right now.”
Marijuana or Massage, or Marijuana AND Massage
Whatever your preference is, your wellness is of top importance. Before rushing off to get a Marijuana-infused massage (I am sure you are halfway out the door already), make sure that you have done enough research and have discussed your condition with a medical professional.
If you are interested in getting a Cannabis-infused massage, avail of it in states and countries where MMJ is legal.
Have you tried getting a Marijuana-infused massage?
Share your experience with us!
- Is Medical Marijuana Better than a Massage - October 19, 2016
- Cannabis in New Zealand - October 18, 2016
- Cannabis for Stress Relief - July 25, 2016
