A Toast To CBD & The Buzz Of Sober January

As we enter into a brand new year, we find ourselves amidst a cacophony of resolutions, eager to bid farewell to the hedonistic whirlwind of the holidays, especially the notorious liquid cheer. Many take up the tradition of Dry January, which calls for us to set aside the spirits and embark on a month-long hiatus from alcohol. Parting ways with your go-to beverage might feel like ending that albeit consistent but toxic situationship, but have no fear, we have an array of alternative elixirs and remedies that won’t leave you high and dry. Stay tuned as we unravel the secrets of finding your botanical bliss with all things Penguin CBD! 

What Is Sober January?

“Sober January” also known as “Dry January” has gained popularity as a movement encouraging a month-long abstinence from alcohol. With all the hype around health resolutions and an exciting launch into the new year, catapulting into wellness and going cold turkey is sometimes not as easy as one might think. There can be uncomfortable side effects with the onset of cutting alcohol such as irritability, depression, and withdrawal effects. Always consult your physician if you have any concerns when starting a new supplement or a new health routine.

The first week can be a bit rocky, but if you can power through, you’ll receive numerous health benefits such as improved sleep, enhanced mental clarity, weight loss, and a chance to reassess your relationship with your saucy old pal. There are many ways to salute, celebrate, and “cheers” to happiness and health that don’t include hangovers and the negative side effects of alcohol. Think of CBD as your balance-boosting little helper! Dry January is the perfect time to add CBD oil to your arsenal to energize your mood and support your health resolutions.

What is CBD? 

Amid the growing trend of sobriety and the various health movements, Cannabidiol (CBD) has emerged as a very successful alternative for individuals looking to battle stress, anxiety, pain, and more. CBD is a non-intoxicating compound derived from the cannabis plant that has gained notable recognition for its success in promoting relaxation, easing stress, and supporting overall well-being. 

Cannabidiol (often known as CBD) is a cannabinoid found in Cannabis Sativa plants that have therapeutic properties. It's made from hemp, which is a different cannabis plant than marijuana. Even though CBD is extracted from both hemp and marijuana, they are not the same. CBN differs from THC, the other cannabinoid in cannabis. CBD is known to have a wide range of health advantages. 

Fun Fact: Humans have an endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors that are turned on and off by enzymes inside the body. By utilizing CBD, you are activating your endocannabinoid system by keeping the receptors turned on and working like a well-oiled machine! This helps fight inflammation consistently while bringing balance to the body in areas where it needs fine-tuning. 

Trade your favorite cocktail for a CBD-infused beverage:

It’s no secret that alcohol consumption can lead to dependency and addiction, causing significant disruptions in many areas of one’s life, from personal to professional. Choosing CBD over alcohol during Sober January can help reduce dependency and alcohol addiction. It’s a great way to unwind after work, not to mention a better choice for starting the year off alcohol-free in honor of your health! CBD does not produce the addictive effects associated with alcohol and might offer a safer way to unwind for those looking to cut down on alcohol intake.

For those accustomed to the ritual of uncorking a bottle after a long day or pouring that sparkly little life-saver of a cocktail, we’ve got you covered. Our CBD products offer a similar experience without the lingering hangovers or brain fog that alcohol tends to leave behind. CBD-infused beverages, such as CBD sparkling waters, teas, or mocktails, mimic the social aspect and relaxation associated with an alcoholic drink without the jarring effects. CBD tinctures and oils can provide a customizable experience. A few drops under the tongue can offer a calming effect that promotes relaxation.

At Penguin CBD, we love to add several drops of our Full Spectrum CBD Oil to our favorite mocktails. The variety of aromatic notes we offer can be mixed and combined for a refreshing take on flavor and feels!  

* Our full-spectrum CBD oils could get you high as they do contain THC. Start with the recommended dosage and increase or decrease according to your comfort level. Consult your physician if you have any questions. 

Here are a few of our favorite mocktail recipes: 

Penguin Mojito:

Ingredients:

• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 2 teaspoons superfine sugar or sugar substitute (to taste)
• 6-8 fresh mint leaves
• 1 ml of mint, citrus, or strawberry Penguin CBD Full Spectrum Oil (No THC option available)
• 4-6 oz club soda
• Crushed ice

Directions:

1. In a glass or shaker, muddle mint leaves with sugar and lime juice
2. Fill the glass/shaker with ice
3. Add preferred dosage of Penguin CBD Oil (1 ml per mocktail)
4. Stir well, add club soda and garnishes
5. Serve & enjoy!

Penguin Strawberry Frosè:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen strawberries
• Strawberry-flavored sparkling water or non-alcoholic rosè
• Sweetener (to taste)
• 1 ml strawberry flavored Penguin Full Spectrum CBD Oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Crushed ice (optional)

Directions:

1. Blend frozen strawberries.
2. Add rosè/sparkling water, sweetener, and lemon juice.
3. Add preferred dosage of Penguin CBD Oil (1 ml per mocktail)
4. Stir well, add garnishes
5. Serve & enjoy!

Penguin Citrus Manhattan:

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 ounces non-alcoholic whiskey or bourbon substitute
• 1 ml Citrus flavored Penguin Full Spectrum CBD Oil
• 1 ounce freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 ounce simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• Dash of aromatic bitters (optional)
• Ice cubes
• Orange peel or twist for garnish

Directions:

1. Prepare a rocks glass with ice to chill. 
2. In a shaker, combine non-alcoholic whiskey, orange juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and optional bitters over ice
3. Add preferred dosage of Penguin CBD Oil (1 ml per mocktail).
4. Shake for 15-20 seconds and strain into the chilled glass or pour over fresh ice. 
5. Garnish by expressing orange peel oils around the rim, then drop the peel in. 
6. Serve & enjoy!

The Magic Of CBD

The magic of CBD lies in its multifaceted potential to promote wellness across the mind and body. CBD offers a natural remedy without the psychoactive effects associated with THC. Its therapeutic properties include alleviating stress to assisting pain management. CBD harmonizes the endocannabinoid system contributing to improved sleep, enhanced mood, and a clear sense of relaxation. This magical compound continues to captivate individuals seeking holistic alternatives, unlocking a realm of possibilities for a healthier life, all around!

Alcohol can impair judgment, trigger dependency, increase depression and anxiety as well as harm the liver and brain. CBD offers relaxation without the mental and physical health risks. Additionally, it doesn't interfere with cognitive abilities, and it’s been known to boost clarity while offering a sense of calm. CBD can help combat irritability while your body and mind adjust to going alcohol-free. If your dependence on alcohol is rather high, we recommend seeking medical assistance or advice from your healthcare professional in your decision to stop drinking. 

CBD & Sleep 

Alcohol significantly impacts the body’s Circadian rhythm and melatonin receptors, hindering your ability to achieve restful sleep. Melatonin is a hormone produced in the pineal gland that plays a pivotal role in regulating sleep patterns. Although that quelling glass of wine might make you feel sleepy and ready for bed, it deceitfully disrupts our natural internal clocks and the signals responsible for producing and releasing melatonin at the appropriate times, crucial for a good night's rest. Alcohol is known to disrupt REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, which is vital for the brain-body relationship required to achieve deep and restorative sleep cycles that aid in the body's healing process.

CBD, unlike THC, does not cause any sort of psychoactive high. Instead, it gets processed through the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS  processes CBD and uses it in its interactions with the body’s other major systems. Think of it as a gentle wave that brings balance and harmony to your sleep cycle. Our Penguin Sleep Gummies with Melatonin will help you get back in the groove of sleeping like a rock(star) in no time!

Microdosing CBD

The trend of “microdosing” is here to stay. Returning to mother nature to achieve optimal health and wellness by exploring plant medicines is on the rise. The evolution of modern healing practices has gone full circle, and many people are departing from pharmaceuticals and looking instead for holistic solutions to heal things like pain, depression, trauma, and anxiety. Microdosing CBD abides by the simple concept that a minimal dose goes a long way in achieving results over time. We are creatures of habit, and our minds are capable of being reprogrammed. Our bodies also love to adapt to health-conscious choices.

Microdosing is a powerful anecdote that helps you notice the gentle shifts your body experiences as you adapt to using CBD or other plant medicines to support your health journey. It goes hand in hand with the wise words of David Abbot, “You don’t eat the fruit the day you plant the seed.” Results take time, and patience is a virtue. We believe in starting small and trusting the process as you develop a dosage that is right for you.  

Journaling For Health 

We recommend keeping a journal to document how you feel for the first few weeks. Taking notes is a great way to track progress and formulate a proper CBD dosage. Transitioning from wine to CBD during Sober January requires understanding dosages, product types, and individual preferences. Start with low dosages and gradually increase as needed.

Experiment with different types of CBD products – oils, edibles, or beverages – to find what best suits your taste and relaxation needs. Consult a healthcare professional if you need personalized guidance, especially if you have specific health conditions or concerns. Listen to your body and practice awareness. This is the key to achieving success when establishing a new CBD wellness routine. 

Penguin CBD For The Win:

Sober January offers a chance to reflect on our habits and explore healthier alternatives. Incorporating CBD as an alcohol substitute not only supports the temporary abstinence from alcohol but also promotes a more balanced and mindful approach to coping with stress and understanding how to take the lead in self-care for you!

As you embark on your Sober January journey, consider exploring a haul of our Penguin CBD Products. We’re here to become your go-to choice for relaxation, offering a gateway to a more serene and mindful lifestyle beyond dry January. We’ve got everything you need to kick off your year in health!

Here’s a look at some of our Allstar Penguin Must-Haves:

Penguin CBD Oil: It’s our best seller for a reason! Full of benefits and stacked with results, our classic Organic Full Spectrum CBD Oil is top-rated. Get one, or grab two and give one to a friend. Spread the love!
Penguin Collagen Gummies: Add a kick to your beauty routine with our collagen-infused CBD gummies, both delicious and designed to support skin, hair, and inner radiance so you can shine even brighter from the inside out.
Penguin Slush CBD Cream: Apply to tender and overworked muscles as you relax to the aromatic scent of lavender & peppermint while our terpenes soothe and support from the outside in.
Penguin Probiotic Gummies: Rebalance your gut bacteria with a blend of 10mg CBD oil paired with Penguin’s signature probiotic blend, targeting immunity, digestion, and more.
Penguin Female Libido & CBD Gummies For Women, Penguin Male Libido & CBD Gummies For Men: Our unique blend of ingredients helps get you in the mood for love.
Penguin Metabolism Hyperdrive Gummies: Amplify your energy and kick start your metabolism with our weight loss-friendly gummies, designed to keep you going strong as you drop off those unwanted Lbs!
Penguin CBD Dog Treats: Give your fur babies a tasty CBD treat that helps calm and ease their separation anxiety while you return to the post-holiday grind.

CBD Oil & Fitness

Yes, the time has come to dust off the weights or update that gym membership, maybe even get up an hour earlier and rekindle your morning walks or cardio sessions. Saying Sayonara to alcohol is just one detox method, the other is to break a sweat! Fitness folks are always seeking ways to optimize their workout routines and improve recovery. Add Workout partner to the list of CBD wonders, it enhances exercise performance and aids post-workout recovery.

That’s right, CBD is a jack of all trades that work for the body and mind in endless ways! Let’s delve into how CBD oil supports workouts, exploring its potential benefits, usage, and impact on fitness buffs and beginners alike!

Understanding CBD Oil In The Body

CBD has grown in popularity for its potential therapeutic properties without the psychoactive effects associated with THC. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the body, which regulates physiological functions, including pain perception, inflammation, and stress response.

Benefits Of CBD Oil For Workouts:

• CBD Oil for pain management: CBD's anti-inflammatory properties may help alleviate exercise-induced pain and soreness, allowing for better recovery post-workout.
• Reducing Inflammation: CBD has the power to minimize inflammation associated with intense workouts, possibly shortening recovery time.
• Stress Reduction: CBD's anxiolytic effects may assist in reducing pre-workout anxiety or stress, promoting a calmer mindset and helping mental fortitude in exercise performance.
• Quality sleep is vital for recovery; CBD's potential to improve REM sleep provides better rest after workouts.

Incorporating CBD Oil Into Fitness Routines:

• Pre-Workout: Some individuals use CBD oil before workouts to potentially reduce anxiety and stress, promoting a focused mindset without the jittery feeling often associated with stimulants, resulting in more sustained energy levels without any hard crashes.
• Post-Workout Recovery: Applying or consuming CBD oil post-exercise might aid in reducing inflammation and muscle soreness, supporting faster recovery so you can get back to business sooner!
• Dosage Considerations: Start with a low CBD dosage and gradually increase to find the optimal amount that suits your needs. Consultation with a healthcare professional is advisable, especially for those with specific health conditions or concerns.

Best Types of CBD for Fitness

• CBD Tinctures/Oils: Sublingual application of CBD oil before or after workouts
• Topical CBD: Creams, lotions, or balms applied directly to sore muscles
• CBD Edibles: Consumable products like gummies or capsules offer a delicious and convenient way to get your CBD dose 

Legal and Safety Considerations

• Quality and purity are essential; Penguin CBD is always third-party tested, and our products are derived from reputable sources. See our Lab Reports page and don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions you may have, we’re here to help!

Real Experiences and Testimonials

• Gathering testimonials from fitness enthusiasts who have incorporated CBD into their routines can be a helpful resource on CBD usage and its impact on workouts.

While the potential benefits of CBD oil for exercise show promise, everyone's body chemistry is different and effects will vary. It's best to approach CBD with optimism and patience and integrate it thoughtfully into your fitness regimen. Personal research and experimentation can help you determine how to tailor it to your unique workout, performance, and recovery. What do you have to lose? Besides a few extra pounds and a new perspective on your health! 

Holistic Benefits Of CBD For Mental Health

If you’ve ever felt stressed or emotionally out of sync with yourself and the world around you due to circumstances beyond your control, this part of the article is for you. Life stops for no one, and through the lens of dry January, perhaps emotional fine-tuning and peace of mind are what you are searching for. In the pursuit of holistic tools for optimal health, Cannabidiol (CBD) has become a popular ally in nurturing mental and emotional health. Let's explore the intricate relationship between CBD and the evolving landscape of attaining a balanced mind, body, heart, and soul.

Understanding CBD And its Mechanisms

CBD interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network that maintains homeostasis in the body. CBD Interacts with ECS receptors and supports several different physiological functions, influencing mood, stress response, and emotional balance.

CBD's Impact on Mental Health

• Anxiety and Stress Reduction: Scientific studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that CBD may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety disorders by interacting with serotonin receptors in the brain, potentially promoting a sense of calmness. 
• Depression and Mood Disorders: While more research is needed, some studies indicate that CBD's impact on serotonin receptors offers benefits in managing depressive symptoms and mood regulation.
• PTSD and Trauma: Preliminary research suggests that CBD assists individuals coping with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) by reducing fear-based thinking and anxiety associated with traumatic memories.

Spiritual Wellbeing and CBD

• Mindfulness and Clarity: CBD's potential to reduce stress and anxiety by influencing a more focused mental state conducive to spiritual practices like meditation, yoga, tai chi, and mindfulness.
• Enhanced Connection: Some individuals report feeling more connected to themselves and experiencing heightened spiritual awareness when using CBD, attributing it to a calmer mind and reduced mental chatter.

Mind-Body Connection and CBD

• Sleep and Relaxation: Quality sleep is vital for mental and spiritual health. CBD's potential to improve sleep quality might indirectly contribute to a more rested mind, bringing a new sense of clarity to the body and restoring healthy thought patterns and responses to stress.
• Pain Management: Chronic pain can affect mental well-being and hinder the quality of life. CBD's analgesic properties assist in managing pain and supporting a more comfortable physical state. Making room for more positive experiences and activities that nurture mental health.
• Things to Add to Your CBD:  Supporting your CBD dosage with exercise, healthy nutrition, yoga as well as a physical movement practice is beneficial for overall well-being. When you make space in your life and stay consistent with healthy choices, the possibilities for joy are endless! 

The scientific verdict is still out on the positive effects of CBD oil for spiritual and mental health. Science and spirituality often exist as separate institutions and counteract each other when it comes to aligning evidence. What brings peace of mind or alleviates stress for one person may not work for others. We are all unique, and finding a way to connect on a deeper level to ourselves and others is a great way to understand what we need to grow and evolve.

Cultivating mindfulness is another way to fortify your self-care systems. Making healthy choices and the disciplines we integrate into our lives can teach us so much about ourselves! Adding CBD to your journey of self-discovery is a great start!

CBD For Pain Management

CBD has been known to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Pain in the body can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and how they move in the world. Here are some of our findings on CBD’s role in the intricate physiological responses triggered by the body in response to injury, infection, and underlying health conditions. While acute inflammation is a part of the body's healing process, however, chronic inflammation can lead to prolonged pain and discomfort, contributing to various health issues.

CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, the very famous ECS. Yes! We sound like a broken record—- but each complex network of receptors and neurotransmitters has a different job and is responsible for regulating various bodily functions and systems, including pain perception and inflamed areas. Because it has a functional relationship with the ECS receptors, CBD can help balance these responses, potentially offering relief from pain and inflammation. 

CBD's Analgesic Properties

• CBD might influence pain perception by interacting with neurotransmitters involved in pain signaling, potentially reducing pain.
• CBD shows promise in managing pain in conditions like multiple sclerosis or neuropathy by modifying pain pathways.

CBD's Anti-Inflammatory Effects

• CBD suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines and pathways involved in inflammation and might help mitigate chronic inflammatory conditions like arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease.
•  CBD's interaction with ECS receptors can regulate immune responses by reducing inflammation in various conditions.

Topical CBD for Pain and Inflammation

• Creams, lotions, or balms infused with CBD can be applied directly to the affected area for localized pain relief, reducing inflammation in joints or muscles.
• Oral Consumption: CBD oils, tinctures, capsules, or edibles taken orally offer relief from pain and inflammation, addressing underlying issues contributing to discomfort.

Clinical Studies and Evidence

While more research is needed, some studies suggest that CBD might benefit individuals suffering from chronic pain conditions, including fibromyalgia, migraines, and arthritis. CBD has shown promise in helping to ease conditions like Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriasis by reducing inflammation.

Ongoing scientific research into CBD's role in easing pain and inflammation proves how valuable natural remedies from plants, like CBD, can be. It's incredible to keep uncovering how cannabidiol aids the body's healing process, showing the immense potential of holistic medicine. Here at Penguin, we're captivated by CBD's limitless possibilities! We're inspired by the hope it provides to those looking for natural options to boost their health and enhance their lives.

Dry January is just the beginning of how Penguin CBD products can contribute to your wellness journey. Our commitment extends beyond providing quality products; it's about cultivating a community centered around the remarkable benefits of CBD. Witnessing tangible results is our driving force, and we're dedicated to empowering you to live your best life with the support of our Organic Penguin CBD offerings.

Passion fuels our work, and we love sharing the transformative magic of CBD with you. We invite you to share and connect with us, your thoughts and experiences matter. For sober January, and well into the future, we're here to support you on your CBD adventure. Here's to a 2024 filled with well-being, health, and vitality!