Why I Switched from Wine to Weed: Challenging Societal Norms for Personal Wellness
The negative social and environmental impacts of excessive alcohol consumption have swirled around me like an ever-impending tornado since the time I was born. Alcoholism and excessive drinking run deep in my family lines.
I am also a product of the "Just Say No" campaign, which was mandated by the Reagan administration to be taught in schools throughout the 1980s. The campaign marked the airwaves and classrooms with a simplicity that was at once both appealing and misleading. Launched by First Lady Nancy Reagan in the early 1980s, it sought to curb the rise in drug use with an abstinence-only message, imploring kids to reject peer pressure with those three words.
The prevalence of this message in my school was more than a mere public service announcement; it was gospel, painting a black and white world where alcohol somehow seemed the lesser of two evils.
As students, we were bombarded with the narrative that marijuana was a gateway drug, setting us on an irreversible path to ruin. A fried egg served as an example of what would happen to our brain, if we "did" drugs.
It's strange to reflect now on how a campaign meant to safeguard us didn't account for the complexities of our realities—how it didn't distinguish between substances or speak to the root issues of why one might be compelled to escape in the first place.
During my high school and college years, and even into my early 30s, alcohol was my preferred indulgence of escapism. Ironically, I was oblivious to its poisonous and detrimental effects. It had become my normalcy, ingrained as something deemed 'acceptable' or 'okay.'
Over the years, my occasional evening glass of wine while watching the sunset, had become a cherished tradition. A symbol of sophistication and relaxation, after a long day at work and tending to babies. I typically saved "heavy drinking", which is defined as consuming more than 8 drinks per week for women and over 15 drinks per week for men, for special occasions with friends.
It is worth noting that our definition of "heavy" drinking may not be as extreme in our society as you might think. For females, this could include a girls' trip or a celebration of some sort. To put it into perspective, this means consuming 4 drinks (or more) per night for 2 nights a week, or 3 drinks per night for 3 nights in a week.
Having 2-3 glasses of wine at home alone, or with friends a few nights a week, and you're considered a heavy drinker according to the CDC.
Over time, I started experiencing increasing physical discomfort after drinking alcohol. The aftermath was filled with regretful mornings accompanied by pounding headaches, a cloudy mind, an unsettled stomach, and an undeniable discomfort that I could no longer ignore.
That’s when my journey to wellness led me down a path that was seen by others as taboo, from the grape vines to the cannabis farms, and here's why.
My Wake-up Call
It was the spring of 2020, a time that redefined normal for all of us. Wine became my refuge, a liquid balm for the uncertainty and fear pulsating through the days. But it took its toll. In April, I underwent the removal of two significant skin cancer spots. As a single woman who prides herself on her high pain tolerance, I didn't give much thought to the procedures or the physical discomfort that would follow their completion.
The cancerous tissue was successfully removed. Afterwards, I made a quick stop to the store to purchase two bottles of wine for the upcoming weekend. Later, some neighbors joined me outside, and we spent about six hours together. Unfortunately, in the midst of my sadness, fear, and physical pain, I ended up consuming both bottles of wine that night.
The following morning, I had an important virtual wellness talk scheduled with an audience of over 500 individuals. Yet, just an hour before the call, I found myself lying face down on the cool bathroom floor, seeking solace as waves of nausea overtook me. The irony was not lost on me in that moment. A wellness expert like myself, physically unwell due to excessive alcohol consumption the day before, now faced the daunting task of composing myself within the next 60 minutes to speak about the importance of healthy eating to eager attendees.
After that moment, I knew I needed to change. However, I wasn't prepared to completely eliminate external substances from my life. The truth was, I found pleasure in the ritual of wine, but not the physical discomfort it caused. I simply longed for an alternative that would help me relax and unwind but wouldn't leave me feeling worse the following day.
Luckily, I had some past exposure to a substance that might help and its notes weren't of oak and berries, but of terpenes and cannabinoids.
The introduction of cannabis was not a revolutionary concept, but rather a subtle recommendation derived from the pages of medical and scientific literature, a fond remembrance of the freedom I felt when consuming during the carefree days of college life, as well as the personal accounts of my patients who experienced the beneficial effects of medical marijuana on their health and overall wellbeing.
Exploring the Benefits of Cannabis
Studies highlight its low harm levels relative to alcohol, and anecdotes speak of mornings reclaimed from hangovers' grips. It's not just about getting high—it's about feeling even: even-tempered, even-keeled, evenly present in the moment.
Cannabis gives me a different kind of buzz, one that doesn't leave me with regrets or physical pain the next day. It allows me to tap into my introspection and empathy in a way that alcohol never did. Rather than turning off my mind and emotions, it helps me lean into them, exploring the underlying reasons for why I might feel the need to escape in the first place.
It also challenges societal norms and expectations, as I've had to confront the stigma and judgment that still surrounds cannabis use. But through this journey, I've discovered a deeper sense of self-awareness and personal growth that has allowed me to break free from outdated beliefs and embrace the curiosity and vulnerability that is needed when we begin to challenge our own internal beliefs.
As I navigated this new chapter, I began to study more and more about this magical plant and found it striking how our bodies have been intricately wired to interact with the substances found in cannabis. Scientific research has illuminated the existence of cannabinoid receptors, primarily CB1 and CB2, which are part of the endocannabinoid system—a network that plays a pivotal role in maintaining our body's homeostasis.
When I consume cannabis, I'm actually engaging these receptors. Like fitting a key into a locked door, once opened I experience a sense of peace, balance and greater acceptance and understanding within my body and mind.
Researchers have meticulously documented how cannabinoids from the cannabis plant can activate receptors in the body and in turn influence functions ranging from pain perception to anxiety and stress management.
This interconnectedness is not a modern discovery; it's a relationship that, as history suggests, traces back to our ancestors who maintained a symbiotic bond with plants. The cattle they reared grazed on hemp, infusing cannabinoids into their diet, which then, in turn, entered our ancestors' diets. Furthermore, direct usage of cannabis for its psychoactive and therapeutic properties was not uncommon in ancient and even more modern times.
Breaking Barriers Address Your Stigma and Bias with Courage
Before we continue on our journey of understanding, let's make an important distinction. We need to answer the question "What is a Psychoactive Substance" or to put it more plainly "What is a Drug?"
Definition of a Psychoactive Substance, according to the National Cancer Institute:
A drug, or other substance, that affects how the brain works and causes changes in mood, awareness, thoughts, feelings, or behavior.
Examples include:
Alcohol
Nicotine
Caffeine
Marijuana
Certain pain medications
LSD
When you read that list, do you think all of those belong in the same category? Have you ever thought of your morning cup of tea or coffee as a drug? Do you harshly judge yourself when you reach for a bottle of Midol® to ease menstrual cramps?
My guess is that you likely answered no to both of those questions. So if you're curious about adding cannabis to your life, but you "don't do drugs" it might be time to reevaluate that sentiment.
A Nod to History: Cannabis in the Pharmacy
Societies relationship with cannabis has changed drastically over the last 100 years.
A century ago, it wasn't the forbidden fruit it's painted to be now. In fact, cannabis tinctures were once mainstream, readily available on the shelves of local pharmacies. Women found relief in these elixirs, using them to alleviate the pains of menstrual cramps – a testament to its therapeutic impact. The notion that what now requires a medical card or a trip to a specialized dispensary was once as straightforward to obtain as aspirin is intriguing.
What changed that lead to the demonization of this plant?
Cannabis's legal status shifted in the 20th century, notably with the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937 (a racially charged and fear based act), which placed heavy taxes on its sale and possession, effectively rendering it illegal. This act was bolstered by a growing stigma and sensationalized misconceptions, relegating cannabis to the shadows for decades to come.
As I reflect on these historical ebbs and flows, I find a renewed appreciation for the plant's resilience and its quietly profound role in human experiences since at least the Neolithic period (12,000 years ago).
It's in understanding this history that I feel a deeper connection to the plant and the collective human journey of which it's been a part. This natural compatibility suggests that, far from being a foreign entity, the use of cannabis to relax and unwind is built into our physiology.
By choosing to reintroduce cannabinoids into my routine, I'm not going against nature, but rather, returning to a more ancestral way of life—one that understands and harnesses the gentle nudge that these plant-based compounds provide, helping us align with a state of harmony and wellbeing that often feels just out of reach in today's fast-paced world.
My journey has transcended beyond personal health; it echoes a narrative of profound connection with nature’s wisdom, a resonance with the past that embraces the future. It’s a testament to trusting in the knowledge that our bodies are designed for balance, and sometimes, the tools to achieve that serenity have been rooted in our natural history all along.
Embracing Your Personal Growth: From Wine to Weed
Switching from wine to weed may sound like a typical path to wellness, but for me, it has been a transformative journey. It has allowed me to question and challenge my own beliefs and patterns, leading to a more sustainable and holistic approach to wellness.
And while I certainly don't advocate that cannabis is the answer for everyone, I do encourage you to explore beyond what society has deemed as acceptable or normal, and to discover what truly works for you on your own wellness journey. Because at the end of the day, it's not about "just saying no" or conforming to societal norms—it's about finding what brings you and your unique self balance and joy.
The Stark Reality of Alcohol's Impact
According to a comprehensive study published by The Lancet, alcohol is a leading risk factor for death and disease/disability in men and women between the ages of 15 and 49 worldwide.
The same research concludes that alcohol use was responsible for nearly 3 million deaths in 2016.
Reflecting on these stark statistics, it's natural to wonder about the impact of alternatives like cannabis. Studies consistently show that the number of deaths directly attributable to cannabis is astonishingly low in comparison to alcohol.
In fact, a substantial body of cannabis research suggests that a fatal overdose has never been documented, and it's thought to be impossible to occur. This is not to say cannabis comes without risks, but rather that the lethality of those risks appears significantly lessened compared to alcohol and opioids.
For me, this was a part of a liberating realization: that the narrative around cannabis, mired in years of stigma, had overshadowed its potential as a safer part of my self-care routine. With this knowledge, I encourage others to look at the evidence with fresh eyes and consider their own paths to wellness with an open heart and mind.
It’s sobering to realize that what we often toast to at celebrations can, in fact, be the most dangerous drug on the planet, surpassing others we commonly guard against.
When we speak of addiction and substance abuse, alcohol often takes a backseat to the stigmatized discussion around illegal drugs. Yet, alcohol's legality doesn't diminish its potency to harm.
Researchers consistently find that compared to other drugs, alcohol scores highest on the scale of harm to both users and others.
An Uncomfortable Truth: Alcohol is the Most Dangerous Drug
In the United States, the number of alcohol-related deaths surpasses those caused by opioids and other drugs. In addition to the opioid overdose crisis, there exists another lesser-known epidemic that has been celebrated by society, and destroying individuals for decades. There have been calls from various health organizations to classify tabacco and alcohol as drugs since the early 2000s.
Long before the COVID-19 pandemic, instances of excessive alcohol consumption were already prevalent and on the rise. The stress and isolation brought on by the pandemic seem to have exacerbated problematic drinking behaviors, particularly among certain groups. This is evident from the observed shifts in purchasing habits and the alarming increase in the quantity of alcohol being bought.
Between 2019 to 2020, alcohol-related deaths increased more than 25%. In 2020, the number of adults under 65 who lost their lives due to alcohol-related causes surpassed the number of individuals who succumbed to COVID-19. As we know, data lags by several years - leaving one to imagine how high the adverse reaction rates are today from alcohol consumption.
In addition to the significant loss of life, alcohol's detrimental consequences extend to numerous individuals. The ripple effects encompass car accidents, heightened violence and assault, riskier sexual behaviors, unemployment, fractured families, and the destabilization of children's lives due to a parent's reliance on a drug that is not only legal but also glorified.
Despite these facts, alcohol remains the socially acceptable form of intoxication. I still find it odd that people won't think twice about getting "blacked out" drunk, and laugh about it with friends the next day and then judge others who choose to "get high" from something that grows on the earth.
Let's break those words down a little bit more. The desire to drink so much where you forget your troubles or "blackout" is by nature, restrictive and harmful. The desire to "get high" on the other hand is often seen as an expansive practice, or something that brings growth and benefit to your life.
Finding a New Relaxation Habit
I still find peace and centeredness within when I watch the sunset each evening, and on the nights where I want to enjoy the ritual of consuming something from outside of myself, I now turn to this cherished plant.
Cannabis, when consumed responsibly and with reverence, has greatly enhanced my relaxation rituals. These evenings are now mine, held sacredly—and often the night's memories are more profound and clear, and the mornings brighter.
I don't regret the years I spent drinking wine, but I do regret not questioning its impact sooner.
As I continue on my wellness journey, I embrace personal growth and challenge societal norms with a newfound confidence and sense of self-awareness. And as much as cannabis may have helped me in this process, it ultimately comes down to acknowledging that we are all unique individuals with different needs and paths to wellness.
So let's open our minds and hearts, question what we've been told, and discover what truly works for us on our own unique journeys towards health and happiness. Because when it comes down to it, the most important thing is to find balance, joy, and authenticity in who we are as individuals.
My narrative isn't an indictment of wine nor an unwavering endorsement of weed.
It's about choices, about questioning deeply ingrained habits and societal impositions to find what genuinely promotes our wellbeing.
If you find yourself pausing, wondering if there's another way, I encourage you to explore that curiosity. A healthier, more mindful practice may await you, one that brings clarity rather than obscurity to your life.
As you reflect upon where you stand in relation to wine, cannabis, or any habit, ask yourself:
Am I using this to enhance my experience, or to escape from it?
How does my body feel during and after consuming?
What long-term impacts am I observing on my wellbeing as a result of this?
Could there be a method of unwinding that aligns more closely with my wellness goals?
Your journey toward personal wellness is your own; it deserves exploration and care. Every sip, every puff, is a decision—and it's yours to make, consciously and conscientiously. May your path lead you to serene sunsets and restful dawns, to an existence that blooms with peace, vitality, and mindfulness.
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Lake S, Socías ME, Milloy MJ. Evidence shows that cannabis has fewer relative harms than opioids. CMAJ. 2020;192(7):E166-E167.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2022). Key substance use and mental health indicators in the United States: Results from the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (HHS Publication No. PEP22-07-01-005, NSDUH Series H-57).
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