Cannabinoids, Movement, and Mental Well-Being: A Q&A with Still I Run Ambassador Jen Baker

Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are those of the interviewee and do not constitute medical advice or an endorsement by Still I Run. Cannabinoid products may not be appropriate for everyone and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your treatment, medication, or wellness routine. Laws regarding cannabinoid products vary by state and jurisdiction.

At Still I Run, we believe there are many tools that can support mental well-being. Running and movement are at the heart of what we do, but everyone's journey looks different.

One topic that has gained a lot of attention in recent years is cannabinoids. To help us better understand the conversation, we sat down with Still I Run ambassador Jen Baker. Jen combines personal experience, professional expertise, and a passion for helping others learn more about the Endocannabinoid System and how cannabinoids may support overall wellness.

Meet Jen

Can you tell us a little about yourself and how you became interested in cannabinoids and wellness?

I was born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and I'll be 41 this summer. I have an amazing 13.5-year-old who is my "why" for healing my mental health out loud these days.

Postpartum struggles stole so much from me during motherhood. Because of that, I have a special spot in my heart for parents—moms and dads—who are struggling. Through both college-level courses and professional experience, I've become passionate about the effects of cannabinoids and the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) that we're all born with.

My life goal is to positively impact those around me and educate others on how cannabinoids can help them function at their highest ability while keeping my approach real, relatable, and grounded in everyday life.

How has movement or running played a role in your own well-being journey?

Here's my shameless opportunity to shout out Still I Run and the vitally important role the Mental Health Runner Program has played in saving my soul as I've navigated life lately.

I've used exercise as an antidepressant for years after Big Pharma failed me. This time, though, having the proper gear and support really drove the concept home to my heart. I'm forever changed because of one decision to send a quick email and have become passionate about sharing the message of hope that this organization offers.

Forward is a pace, and being happy is worth it.

Cannabinoids 101

For someone who knows nothing about cannabinoids, what are they?

Cannabinoids are natural compounds found in the cannabis plant that interact with your body's Endocannabinoid System (ECS), which is responsible for regulating things like mood, sleep, stress, and energy.

What is the difference between CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids?

THC and CBD are both considered "major" cannabinoids because they're what most people are most familiar with and consume most often. Many people use THC for pain management and CBD for its perceived anti-inflammatory effects.

Of course, there are many more cannabinoids in this beautifully complex plant. These are often called "minor" cannabinoids, but that doesn't mean they're any less powerful. In my opinion, they actually hold much of the plant's power. THC and CBD offer tremendous benefits too, but consuming some of the "little guys" can often provide more long-term relief.

One of the biggest misconceptions is that all cannabinoid products will make you feel "high." Can you explain why that's not necessarily true?

THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the only cannabinoid that creates the psychoactive effect people associate with feeling "high."

CBD, CBG, CBC, and CBN, just to name a few, do not create that effect. That's what makes them so appealing to many people. You can still effectively use cannabinoids while continuing to go about your daily life.

What are some of the most common myths or misunderstandings you hear about cannabinoids?

One of the biggest myths I hear is that CBD doesn't work. The reality is that it absolutely can, but quality, dosing, and consistency all matter. If those pieces aren't taken into account, people may not have the experience they're hoping for.

Another misconception is that the highest THC levels automatically provide the most benefit. In reality, a smaller amount of THC combined with other cannabinoids is often enough to achieve a higher level of relief. That doesn't necessarily mean you'll feel more "high." It means your body may be getting more of what it needs to function effectively. The exception would be someone dealing with severe pain who may need a higher dose for more immediate relief.

I also hear people say that smoking is always the best way to consume cannabis. Edibles can often provide more comprehensive relief because they process through the body differently before entering the bloodstream. For people on a movement journey, edibles and sublingual sprays can be convenient options that don't involve breathing in smoke.

The biggest thing to remember is that quality matters. Not all products are created equal, so being informed is incredibly important.

Cannabinoids and Movement

Why have so many runners and active people become interested in cannabinoid products?

After the Endocannabinoid System was discovered between 1988 and 1992, a significant amount of research followed. Since then, many active individuals have become interested in cannabinoids as a way to support performance, recovery, and overall wellness.

People are looking for ways to feel and perform their best without experiencing a heavy crash or negative after-effects. Many are also exploring cannabinoids as part of their recovery routine.

How might cannabinoids fit into a recovery routine after exercise?

Cannabinoids after a run or other activity may help regulate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve sleep quality. Since recovery is such an important part of training, many athletes are interested in how cannabinoids can support that process.

What role can cannabinoids play in supporting sleep, stress management, or overall wellness?

Giving the Endocannabinoid System and your body what it needs to function effectively is something we should all be striving for. The challenge is that without proper education, many people don't know where to start.

When people better understand how cannabinoids interact with the body, they can make more informed decisions about supporting sleep, stress management, and overall wellness.

Are there particular cannabinoids that people interested in movement and recovery tend to gravitate toward?

CBN is often used to support relaxation and sleep, which can be incredibly beneficial for recovery and overall performance.

CBG and CBC are great cannabinoids to explore for stress management. Adding a small amount of THC into certain combinations can help improve bioavailability and allow the body to utilize the cannabinoids more effectively.

Getting Started Safely

What should someone know before trying a cannabinoid product for the first time?

Quality matters.

There are so many products on the market today, and it's incredibly important to be informed and educated before making a purchase. I also recommend starting slow.

If you overload yourself with more of what you don't need than what you do need, you're probably not going to have a positive experience. Any negativity attached to medicating with cannabis is certainly not what I want for people. The plant deserves respect, and taking the time to learn about it can make a big difference.

How can people identify reputable products and avoid low-quality options?

In my nearly decade-long experience in Michigan's cannabis industry, I've found that doing your own research is always best.

Trusting someone simply because they're selling a product can be difficult. Budtenders and sales representatives may have products they're encouraged to promote. That's why I encourage people to educate themselves, ask questions, and seek information from sources they trust.

I've always tried to be an open book for friends, family, and anyone looking for honest information.

Are there any considerations runners should keep in mind when it comes to race rules, drug testing, or THC-containing products?

Absolutely.

If you're participating in a sanctioned event, it's important to know that THC can result in a positive drug test. There are other cannabinoids that don't carry that same concern, so understanding what's in the products you're using is important.

It's also worth remembering that THC can increase heart rate and affect coordination. For runners and athletes, being mindful of the concentration and timing of THC-containing products is always a good idea.

Bringing It Back to Mental Well-Being

At Still I Run, we talk a lot about movement as a tool for mental well-being. How do you see cannabinoids fitting into the bigger picture of wellness, recovery, and self-care?

When we consume the proper concentration of cannabinoids, our bodies can function at a higher level, and things like overall wellness, recovery, and self-care become easier to prioritize and maintain.

Cannabinoids are about so much more than just "getting high." Their potential benefits are vast, and I think that's something many people are only beginning to understand.

What is one thing you wish everyone understood about cannabinoids?

Cannabis has been a life-changing tool for many people, including some who are managing depression, chronic pain, or recovery challenges. Many traditional medications also come with side effects that can be difficult to manage.

With the proper concentration of high-quality cannabinoids, many people find themselves able to experience more joy in the present and enjoy life again. The most important thing I want people to understand is that successful cannabinoid use does not mean being high all the time.

It's entirely possible to use cannabinoids in a way that supports your wellness while still allowing you to fully participate in everyday life.

Final Thoughts

Cannabinoids are just one of many tools that people may choose to explore as part of their mental wellness, recovery, and self-care journey. What works for one person may not work for another, which is why education and informed decision-making are so important.

At Still I Run, we believe movement can play a powerful role in supporting mental well-being, and we're grateful to Jen for sharing her knowledge and experience with our community.

The experiences shared in this article are personal to the interviewee and should not be interpreted as treatment recommendations.