An interview with The Mind of Rey Rey® founder, Rey Rey Rodriguez.

When did you first try cannabis?

I was 13 years old the first time I tried cannabis.  I smoked socially throughout high school, stopped around the age of 19, and then picked it back up in my late 20’s.

What inspired you to smoke?

I always had an admiration for the plant.  Everyone I idolized as a kid, and the people I admire today are all considered potheads. I grew up watching Cheech & Chong’s films, and all my favorite musicians from the 60s till today, as well as my favorite athletes, public figures, and celebrities (Bob Marley, Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, Mike Tyson, Dave Chappelle, Michael Phelps, Cypress Hill, Snoop, Dre, Biggie, Pac, Nick & Nate Diaz, Elon Musk, Joe Rogan, Eddie Bravo and more) were / are all advocates of the herb.

Two of my favorite podcasts are B Real’s “Smokebox” and Mike Tyson’s “Hotboxin’,” where the hosts interview their guests while smoking.  One of my favorite events to watch is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competition called, “High Rollerz,” where the competitors smoke before they compete at the highest level.

No one can say that cannabis is a lazy or unintelligent person’s drug anymore.

What about cannabis do you like or enjoy?

I smoke / vape both Sativa and Indica, which affect me in two completely different ways.

Sativa clears my mind, allowing me to be present and to focus on whatever the current task at hand is.  Whether I’m working, reading, studying, practicing, or doing something else that requires concentration, it allows me to be more present and to dissect, observe, and problem solve better. 

The intensity in which I interpret information heightens, and I find myself, breaking down art, music, movies, body movement, meditation and even memories on a deeper level. My imagination and ideas are more vivid. For me, sativa is good for any physical or mental activity.

I use indica for rest, relaxation, to calm the body and mind when it’s time to wind down, and to fall asleep.  This one helps clear my mind from any worry and stress.  It zones me out, I become one with my mattress and pillow, making my body feel weightless, and filling me with a cooling effect from the darkness as I lay there with my eyes closed.  Indica is perfect when you’re ready to knock out.

What would you say to those that still think cannabis is a dangerous drug?

I don’t think it’s for everyone but, the days of “Reefer Madness” and everyone assuming that pot will make us dumb, slow, brain dead, or will lead us to crack and heroin are behind us.  Cannabis is legal throughout the US in most states either for recreational or medicinal purposes.  Cancer, mental health, athletic recovery, brain trauma, and many other conditions are being treated with cannabis.  I’ve been diagnosed with PTSD, OCD, and ADHD.  I’m not sure if that doctor diagnosed me correctly, but I do know that his recommendation for all of those conditions was marijuana. 

Is there anything you’d recommend to those wanting to learn more about cannabis?

Anyone can do a Google search for most questions.  I like to refer those interested in current information on all things cannabis to visit High Times Magazine’s website.  And anyone that would like to learn a bit of the plant’s history and about the negative propaganda that led to it becoming illegal, should read Jack Herer’s book, “The Emperor Wears No Clothes.”  

Follow Rey Rey Rodriguez on social media:

Facebook.com/themindofreyrey

twitter.com/themindofreyrey

Instagram.com/themindofreyrey       

LinkedIn.com/in/themindofreyrey

And visit his official website:

Themindofreyrey.com

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019, shortly called COVID-19, has caused an unprecedented and dramatic impact on communities all over the world – including CBD enthusiasts. As governments from different states and countries impose home quarantine and social distancing policies, it is only natural that users of this popular compound are facing drastic changes in their ways of consumption in order to keep up with the protocols.

If you’re one among these users, knowing what the dos and don’ts are when using CBD products like portable vaporizers amid a pandemic is necessary to ensure a safe and fun CBD experience. To help you achieve that, we have prepared a list of the things you need to keep in mind while threats of the deadly disease is still a worldwide problem.

Read on.

Things to Do – How to Use CBD Safely

Buy Only from Reputable Dispensaries

As the health crisis worsens, supplies for resources are also expected to shrink, including CBD. Since there is an ongoing protocol for everyone to stay at home and practice social distancing, some suppliers of cannabidiol are expected to stop their operations. As a result, consumers are to be left with limited store choices, which fraudsters can take advantage for their personal gains.

In times like this, when transactions are primarily done online, it’s best to ensure that the one you’re seeking supply of CBD for is a legit and reliable dispensary.

To prevent the risk of falling victim to criminals, it’s best to limit your options to reputable stores only. Before heading straight into the checkout and providing your credit card information, make a habit of conducting a background check on the site you’re visiting first. Once you’ve verified that the details provided are true and that the store actually operates as a legal supplier, it is then that you can only start picking the products you want to get from the site.

Consider How Much THC the Product Contains

While it’s a popular belief that CBD works best with a little THC, it’s always a safe bet to get a product that only contains as low as the 0.3 percent cutoff required for CBD products. That is exactly what LA Fresh CBD touts in its products.

Primarily, this is because THC works as a psychoactive component, which means taking a dose of it can drive you straight into the cloud nine, or what people call the marijuana “high.” Since the COVID-19 pandemic has left the economy almost immobile, finding yourself in an unpleasant and dangerous level of head high will leave you helpless, as people are expected to stay on their homes, establishments are normally closed, and medical professionals are busy responding to the needs of the swelling number of infected patients.

Don’t Share

Sure, while cannabis enthusiasts live by a communal way of life, now’s not the time to remain faithful to that culture. Essentially, since the novel coronavirus has been proven to be transmittable via respiratory droplets and contact routes, sharing your vaping device with your favorite pals is a big no-no.

Aside from this, although it’s a known fact that CBD oils, gummies, and other related products are more satisfying when shared in groups, practicing social distancing of at least 1 meter or 3 feet is still more important to secure your safety amid the outbreak.

The Bottom Line

In this time of medical and economic upheaval, aligning your every action to what’s proper and necessary should be everyone’s top priority. Sure, while you’re still free to enjoy your favorite CBD products, practicing these necessary measures come as a compulsory action from anyone in the community.

CBD Oil has definitely been gaining ground in various parts of the world, especially in the more progressive socio-political climate of the United States. More than half of the states in the US have legalized cannabis and its cannabinoids for medicinal purposes, while 10 of them has allowed recreational consumption.

Because of the medicinal properties of CBD, a particular chemical compound found in cannabis, more and more people in the United States are taking on a more positive attitude toward cannabidiol. This cannabinoid is also legal in many parts of Europe.

While the relatively positive perception of CBD in more progressive regions comes as no surprise, learning that this compound is becoming a trend in the more conservative country of Japan is fairly unexpected. Read on to know more about CBD oil in the Japanese market.

How Popular is Cannabidiol in Japan?

Cannabidiol is fast gaining popularity in Japan. In fact, it is becoming more popular by 100% year over year. CBD Oil and Cannabidiol products are so popular that they are now available in various health food stores in the country. They come in various kinds, especially in cosmetic products and oils.

Reasons Why Cannabidiol is Popular in the Japanese Market

You may be wondering why this cannabinoid has become so popular in this largely conservative country. Here are some of the factors that contribute to its popularity.

It is Legal in Japan

Perhaps one of the most important reasons why cannabidiol has become so well-liked in Japan is the fact that it is legal. Residents can purchase this product online and offline. However, there are legal guidelines to follow when buying online, especially from abroad. The only legal CBD products are those containing less than 0.03% THC. Any amount over this percentage will be punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a 3 million yen fine.

Because of this, you want to purchase products from a Japanese manufacturer, as they legally produce such items. Buying offline in Japanese stores is the safer bet, especially as those sold within the country are more likely to follow regulations.

If you are curious whether you can cultivate a cannabis plant, even hemp, for CBD, keep in mind that these plants are bound to contain THC levels, which you cannot control as you grow the plant. So, it is safe to say that it is not legal to grow a plant even for cannabidiol.

Its Benefits

Another important factor that contributed to the popularity of this cannabinoid is that it is known to have skincare and health benefits. In terms of skincare, CBD is known to regulate the skin, which means that you can use it to control sebum production if over-oiliness is your problem, and it can also increase it if dry skin is the issue. Infused products include toners, serums and creams.

In terms of health and wellness, this compound has been proven to be effective in pain relief, anti-inflammation, energy-boosting, mood-enhancing and anti-stress. It also has calming and relaxing effects, perfect for those struggling with mental health issues.

Ms. World Japan’s CBD Oil Brand

Ms. World Japan 2016 Priyanka Yoshikawa also contributed to boosting the demand for this compound. She launched her own brand of infused products, focusing primarily on skincare and oils. With the support of such a prominent figure, this chemical is bound to gain popularity in the country.

Japan is taking the next step toward health and wellness with its lenient policies on CBD products. With this country acknowledging the benefits of such products, this cannabinoid is definitely getting the recognition it deserves.