Updates from Jackie Potter

As the hemp industry rises, legislation is trying to keep up with the changes of this industry. The marijuana industry wants to engulf it into dispensary sales. Hemp is federally legal, sort of and marijuana is state by state, with many laws to really confuse the shopper. In this post JPotter Health would like to try to inform as best we can where this is legally and where it seems to be going. The US House Agriculture Committee has recently passed an amendment to the 2024 Farm Bill, aiming to redefine hemp to address a 'loophole' formed by the 2018 Farm Bill. This proposed change may ban hemp-derived cannabinoid products like delta-8 THC and THCA, sparking a significant debate on cannabinoid regulation. While the bill still has a legislative journey ahead, its potential impact on the $28 billion gray market and the future of the US hemp industry is considerable. Despite efforts to 'close the loophole,' lawmakers could choose to maintain current regulations or delay decisions.

The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp by defining it as containing no more than 0.3% THC, inadvertently fostering a booming market for CBD and hemp-derived products. These products are now widely available, thanks to the bill's vague language and the botanical similarity between hemp and cannabis. The 2024 Farm Bill amendment proposes a stricter definition, limiting hemp to "naturally occurring, naturally derived, and non-intoxicating cannabinoids," potentially banning popular products like gummies and edibles.

Contributing to the debate, a DEA official clarified in a May 13 letter that the legal threshold for hemp includes delta-9 THC and related cannabinoids like THCA. THCA is a non-intoxicating precursor to THC that becomes active when heated. Although THCA products contain less than 0.3% delta-9 THC, they are often sold outside licensed cannabis markets. The DEA's clarification asserts there is no loophole, arguing that THCA does not meet the legal definition of hemp. This stance has intensified debates within the hemp industry. While the DEA plans to finalize this policy, a federal appeals court in 2022 upheld exemptions for delta-8 THC from DEA regulations, leaving hemp-derived products in a legal gray area.

Amid federal uncertainty, states have taken varied approaches. States like New York, Washington, Oregon, and Colorado have moved to ban hemp-derived cannabinoids, while others, such as California, Michigan, Maryland, and Connecticut, limit sales outside regulated cannabis channels. Meanwhile, Minnesota, Louisiana, and Virginia are crafting laws to regulate these products within the hemp-derived market. This ongoing state-level regulation highlights the complex landscape surrounding hemp-derived cannabinoids amidst federal policy discussions. 

In the go, go, go of our everyday lives, it's easy to get swept up by the relentless pace of duties, expectations, and deadlines. However, the art of  mindfulness offers a serene oasis in the midst of this turmoil. Grounded in ancient wisdom yet profoundly relevant today, mindfulness teaches us to experience the present moment without judgment or distraction. It unfolds around seven core concepts: non-judging, patience, beginner's mind, trust, non-striving, acceptance, and letting go. Understanding and practicing these principles can transform our approach to life, creating a sense of peace and clarity. Let's delve into each concept and explore how to weave them into the fabric of our daily lives.

1. Non-judging

At the heart of mindfulness is adopting an attitude of non-judging towards our experiences. This means observing thoughts and feelings without labeling them as "good" or "bad". In practice, it involves catching yourself in the act of judgment and gently reminding yourself to observe without criticism. For instance, if you find yourself getting frustrated in traffic, acknowledge the irritation without berating yourself or the situation.

2. Patience

Patience is a recognition that things must unfold in their own time. Instead of pushing for immediate results in personal growth or daily tasks, mindfulness teaches us to give ourselves and others the room to evolve at a natural pace. Next time you're learning a new skill and progress seems slow, remind yourself that growth is a process and patience is key to sustainable development.

3. Beginner's Mind

Approaching experiences with a beginner's mind means seeing them as if for the first time, without preconceptions or expectations. This openness can lead to a deeper appreciation of the moment and a willingness to explore. Try implementing this concept by engaging in a routine activity, like walking or eating, with full attention to the sensations and experiences as if it were your first time doing it.

 4. Trust

Trust in mindfulness refers to trusting oneself and one's intuition. It's about listening to and trusting your own being. This can be practiced by staying true to your feelings and convictions, even when they go against the grain. Trusting yourself might mean taking a rest when feeling overwhelmed, instead of pushing through fatigue just because your schedule says you should.

5. Non-striving

Non-striving is about not being overly attached to outcomes or goals. While setting goals is important, mindfulness encourages us to engage in activities without a specific result in mind. Next time you meditate, try not to aim for relaxation or enlightenment; just meditate to meditate, and see what unfolds.

6. Acceptance

Acceptance involves seeing things as they are in the present moment, rather than how we want them to be. It doesn't mean passivity but recognizing the current situation without denial or avoidance. Practicing acceptance can start with acknowledging small discomforts or inconveniences without trying to immediately change them.

7. Letting Go

Lastly, letting go is the practice of releasing attachment to thoughts, feelings, or possessions that do not serve us. A way to incorporate letting go into everyday life is by de-cluttering your space or mind, discarding what no longer brings joy or benefit.

Mindfulness isn't just a practice but a way of life. By cultivating non-judging, patience, beginner's mind, trust, non-striving, acceptance, and letting go, we can find a deeper connection to the present moment and, ultimately, to ourselves. These principles encourage us to pause, breathe, and engage fully with the here and now, leading to a more peaceful and fulfilling life. Start small, practice daily, and watch as the transformative power of mindfulness unfolds in your life.

In recent research spearheaded by Michael S. Fanselow at the Department of Psychology, Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, UCLA, Integrative Center for Learning & Memory, an invigorating approach towards managing fear and anxiety has emerged through the stimulation of the vagal nerve. The findings, brought forth in the article "Fear and anxiety take a double hit from vagal nerve stimulation," illuminate the promising impact of bioelectrical interfaces on mental health, particularly in combating anxiety disorders.

The vagal nerve, often referred to as the 'wandering nerve,' plays a crucial role in the autonomic nervous system, influencing everything from heart rate to digestion. Yet, its ability to act as a bridge between the brain and body also makes it a powerful conduit for therapeutic intervention. Fanselow's work underscores the potential of vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) in recalibrating our body's response to fear and anxiety, offering a beacon of hope for those who grapple with these crippling conditions.

Amidst the technical exploration and optimistic findings in Fanselow's study, the article also sheds light on alternative, accessible techniques that can assist in managing anxiety. Here are three methods that complement the groundbreaking research on VNS:

1. Deep Breathing Exercises: Leveraging the body's relaxation response, deep breathing serves as a natural tranquilizer for the nervous system. By focusing on slow, deep, and consistent breaths, individuals can stimulate the vagal nerve, promoting a state of calmness and reducing anxiety levels.

2. Mindfulness Meditation: This practice involves sitting quietly and paying attention to thoughts, sounds, the sensations of breathing, or parts of the body. Mindfulness meditation can enhance one's awareness of the present moment, helping to break the cycle of worry and anxiety by fostering a stance of observation rather than reaction.

3. Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR): PMR is a technique where you tense each muscle group in the body tightly, but not to the point of strain, and then slowly relax them. This encourages the body to enter a state of relaxation, counteracting the stress and tension that anxiety can bring.

Michael S. Fanselow's work not only opens up a new frontier in the treatment of anxiety through vagal nerve stimulation but also emphasizes the power of integrating both cutting-edge and traditional practices in managing mental health. Whether through high-tech approaches or simple, self-administered techniques, the journey towards overcoming fear and anxiety is becoming increasingly accessible, providing a glimmer of hope for those affected.

In the realm of psychiatric and psychological research, the impact of environmental factors on mental health has garnered increasing attention. Two recent studies offer fresh insights into this complex relationship, focusing on the effects of specific weather phenomena and environmental stressors on mental well-being. 

The first study, titled "The Impact of Foehn Wind on Mental Distress among Patients in a Swiss Psychiatric Hospital" by Christian A. Mikutta et al., delves into the influence of a unique meteorological phenomenon known as the Foehn wind, a dry and warm down-slope wind in the Swiss Alps, on the mental distress levels among patients in a psychiatric facility. This research stands at the intersection of meteorology and psychiatry, opening new pathways for understanding how specific weather conditions can exacerbate or potentially mitigate symptoms of mental distress. The study's findings suggest a noticeable impact of the Foehn wind on the exacerbation of mental distress symptoms among the patients observed. It underscores the necessity for psychiatric institutions to consider environmental triggers as part of comprehensive patient care and treatment planning.

The second study, "Panic Anxiety, Under the Weather?" by A. Bulbena et al., explores the broader question of how different weather patterns influence panic anxiety and related disorders. This investigation is particularly relevant in the context of climate change, which brings about more extreme weather events and unpredictable weather patterns. By examining the correlations between various meteorological conditions and the incidence of panic anxiety, the study sheds light on the urgent need for mental health support systems to integrate environmental considerations into their prevention and treatment strategies.

Both studies underscore a critical observation: the environment, including its weather and climate, plays a significant role in the manifestation and exacerbation of mental health issues. This realization calls for a multidisciplinary approach to mental health care, one that encompasses not only psychological and medical interventions but also considers the environmental contexts in which individuals live.

The studies by Mikutta et al. and Bulbena et al. represent significant steps forward in our understanding of the nexus between environmental conditions and mental health. They highlight the importance of considering the whole spectrum of factors that influence mental well-being and point towards a more holistic, integrated approach to mental health care and research.

In a world that often seems chaotic and divided, it is crucial to remember the power of kindness. The simple act of showing compassion and consideration towards ourselves and others can have a profound impact on our lives, as well as those we are connected to. It is through these acts of kindness that we can truly begin to change the world, fostering a sense of unity, love, and respect for one another. This month on JPotter Health social media we are spending March on the power and benefits of kindness.

The Ripple Effect of Kindness:

Kindness is like a pebble thrown into a calm pond - it creates a ripple effect that expands far beyond the initial act. When we extend kindness to ourselves and others, we create a cycle of positivity that has the potential to grow and spread, touching the lives of countless individuals. Small acts of kindness, however inconspicuous they may seem, have the power to inspire and uplift, ultimately transforming the way we interact with the world around us.

Five Examples of Kindness:

1. Practice Self-Care: Start by being kind to yourself. Prioritize self-care and nurture your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Set aside time each day for activities that bring you joy, whether it's reading your favorite book, taking a walk in nature, or practicing mindfulness. By showing kindness to ourselves, we become better equipped to show kindness to others.

2. Acts of Service: Engage in random acts of kindness for strangers or acquaintances. Offer to carry someone's groceries, hold the door open, or simply smile and say a kind word. These small gestures can brighten someone's day, improving their mood and reminding them that kindness exists in the world.

3. Volunteer and Give: Find opportunities to volunteer in your community or donate to causes that align with your values. Whether it's spending time at a local shelter, organizing a charity event, or donating resources to those in need, your acts of kindness will have a direct and tangible impact on the lives of others.

4. Active Listening: Show kindness through active listening. Be fully present when someone is sharing their thoughts or feelings with you. Offer support and empathy, helping them feel seen and understood. Sometimes, lending a compassionate ear is all someone needs to overcome their challenges and find solace.

5. Spread Positivity on Social Media: In the digital era, kindness can extend beyond face-to-face encounters. Use your online platforms to spread positivity and uplift others. Share inspiring quotes, commend others' achievements, and engage in conversations with empathy and respect. By doing so, you contribute to creating a virtual space that encourages kindness rather than division.

Kindness is not just a virtue; it is a way of life that has the power to shape our world for the better. By cultivating a compassionate mindset and practicing acts of kindness, we become catalysts for change. Every small act of kindness plants a seed that can grow and flourish, creating a chain reaction that transcends boundaries and spreads love and respect throughout our communities. Let us embrace kindness in our lives and be the change we wish to see in the world.