Most athletes don’t realize they’re training dopamine just as much as muscle. Dopamine drives: • motivation • consistency • focus • follow-through When dopamine is overstimulated, performance drops.When it’s regulated, performance improves. How Cannabis Interacts with Dopamine Cannabis doesn’t “flood” dopamine like stimulants do. Instead: • THC modulates dopamine release (dose-dependent) • CBD helps regulate dopamine reuptake • The result is reduced mental noise and improved task engagement when used intentionally This is why some people feel calmer, more focused, and more consistent — while others feel foggy when dosage or timing is wrong. Research: Neuropsychopharmacology (2019) confirms cannabinoids influence dopaminergic signaling without the spike-and-crash pattern seen in stimulants. When Cannabis SUPPORTS Performance Cannabis can be supportive when: • used in low to moderate doses • paired with movement or structured activity • used intentionally (not habitually) • timing is correct Best use cases: • low-intensity training • mobility and recovery work • creative or focus-based tasks • nervous system regulation When Cannabis HURTS Performance Cannabis works against performance when: • dosage is too high • used reactively for avoidance • paired with overstimulation (screens, chaos, stress) • used without structure Signs you’re misusing it: • loss of drive • mental fog • inconsistency • motivation without execution The Intentional Dopamine Protocol (Simple) Before use, ask one question:“What am I supporting right now — focus, recovery, or creativity?” Guidelines: • Low dose only • Use before movement, not inactivity • Pair with breathwork or a warm-up • Avoid stacking with stimulants • Avoid late-night use if motivation is the goal Cannabis is not the driver — it’s the regulator. Final Note This plant doesn’t replace discipline. It supports regulation. Used correctly, cannabis helps you do the work — not escape it.

When you’re stressed, your sympathetic nervous system (SNS) is active. This increases: • cortisol • heart rate • amygdala activation • internal tension • shallow breathing A 2017 Harvard study showed that stress changes the way THC interacts with CB1 receptors, making sensations feel sharper, faster, and more overwhelming. When you're calm, parasympathetic activity (rest & digest) dominates — so THC feels: • smoother • grounding • more predictable • more enjoyable THC interacts with your state, not just your brain. How does cannabis feel in your body when you're stressed vs calm?

INTRODUCE YOURSELF — The Weed & Wellness Way Welcome in. Drop your intro so we can get to know you. Share this: 1. Where you’re tuning in from 2. Why you joined 3. Your current relationship with cannabis 4. One thing you want to improve (sleep, anxiety, stress, fitness, focus, etc.) 5. Your “Live Higher” goal for the next 30 days No pressure — This is a community, not a classroom.