Photo credit: Shane Boyd (Twitter)
Today, we’re talking about CBD!
When Parity retired athlete Mistie Bass isn't working at Nike in NBA Sports Marketing, the 2014 WNBA champion is running after her two young sons, putting together dope outfits for courtside seats, and inspiring others with her motivational speaking. We sat down with her to learn how she’s found support for sleep, muscle aches, and stress, using CBD.
Note: Depending on where you live there may still be misconceptions that the cannabidiol can have psychoactive effects, or, that with typical use will result in a positive drug test (the short answer to both: no.)
It seems like cannabinoids (CBD) are everywhere these days, popping up in different forms with various concentrations, claiming to heal nearly every ailment imaginable. What has your experience been like?
Given that I'm now a retired athlete working in the corporate world, plus a wife and mom, I have certain aches and pains, stresses, and anxieties, that are way more prevalent than ever before. I had heard a lot about CBD and, yes, I'd seen it marketed in everything from drinks to lotions.
I'd dabbled a little bit but never actually felt any of the benefits that I was looking for. I would say that I was curious but not convinced of its claims. I definitely didn't know what one product or concentration could really do in comparison to another.
Through Parity, I was introduced to the women-founded Equilibria brand. I was immediately intrigued and thought to myself, "Why not give it a try?" I decided to take the myeq.com quiz to see if a custom regimen might work for me.
Aside from standing out in the male-dominated cannabis industry, what was different about Equilibria?
Everything is organic, non-GMO, and hand-harvested. Their website teaches you everything about each product, what it does, and how long it's going to take for you to feel some benefits. You can even meet with a specialist over the phone or by email to ask questions.
There’s no reason not to support a women-owned business that does the job it claims to and also puts the science front and center, so you can feel educated enough to trust what you’re putting in your body.
Equilibria's team really did their research, so I felt totally comfortable and confident with their products. Plus, to read about these two phenomenal businesswomen (co-founders Marcy Capron-Vermillion and Coco Meers) and their personal stories — it’s just amazing. I also love that the brand invests in other women entrepreneurs by partnering with Black Girl Ventures.
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Obviously, a massage in general just feels great. But after a minute or so, I immediately felt my muscles relax. And I was like, "Wait, that didn't happen." I was convinced that it was in my head or that I had somehow done something on my own to release those muscles. So, I massaged the other side and the same thing happened. I felt an immediate release of tension, an overwhelming sense of relaxation. From that moment on, they had me.
What has surprised you the most about this journey?
I had initially taken the products for stress but after a while, I started to notice benefits beyond what I was expecting. I have restless leg syndrome and used to kick my husband at night. After about two-and-a-half weeks of using my Equilibria regimen, it stopped! I've been getting some of the best sleep ever.
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Any advice for those interested in trying for themselves?
I think patience is key here, which is what I usually say whenever I talk to somebody about my experience with CBD. Read reputable sources and understand you have to do your part. It's like, "Hey, listen, this is not an overnight fix. This is something that becomes a lifestyle change and you'll be able to enjoy the benefits of your consistency."
The cannabis world is huge right now because there are so many laws changing, allowing us to be able to use this plant in ways that can be beneficial for so many people.
You should educate yourself very, very well so you have a better expectation of how things are going to happen. CBD is incredibly safe [and legal]. Making sure you look to experts for recommendations is your best chance to find what will work for you.
For a company to be transparent about exactly what is in their products is everything to me. I feel so confident using these on a day-to-day basis to help manage those little annoyances we all deal with. Equilibria has got me: hook, line, and sinker.
Note: This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.