Sensi Magazine—Philadelphia (Summer 2020)

I PHILADELPHIA S U M M E R 2020

THE LONG RUN The 41-year evolution of America’s top 10-mile run

Are you Out of the Green Closet?

Welcome to a Better Quality of Life

www.TheGreenAlternativeDoctor.com

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l l a w g o n m i l la love cann ab o h

CONNECT WITH YOURSELF AND OTHERS IN CITIES AROUND THE GLOBE

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A Creative Space for Everyone

A highlight of the Spring Arts District, Location 215 has the flexibility to accommodate any vision. Designed as a fresh, open and customizable space, your imagination can run wild.

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PHILADELPHIA SENSI MAGAZINE SUMMER 2020

sensimediagroup @sensimagazine @sensimag

F E AT U R E S

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Run Fast. Run Far. Run Philly.

The iconic Broad Street Run’s popularity endures— despite inclement weather.

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Body Made for Bliss

Did you know you have an endocannabinoid system? You do.

So why haven’t you heard about it?

D E PA R T M E N T S

9 EDITOR’S NOTE 18 THE LIFE Contributing to your health and happiness 12 THE BUZZ CBN FOR ZZZ Products News, tips, and tidbits to keep you in the loop GET HOOKED Philly’s first Little Free Fiber library PURE APPINESS The app to lift your spirits MARKETPLACE New hemp and CBD products to try FARMERS MARKETS Your summer shopping list BOOZY BUZZ Hard cold brew coffee is your new fix.

BACK TO LIFE The historic Stephen Girard building gets a fresh start.

that help you sleep

HOROSCOPE What the

stars hold for you FLOAT ON All about flotation therapy

40 THE SCENE Hot happenings and hip

hangouts around town GET SCHOOLED Become a sommelier in a semester.

WELLNESS The future of medicine is plant-based.

ON THE COVER

Philadelphia’s Broad Street Run has endured for 41 years, rain or shine.

PHOTO BY M. EDLOW FOR VISIT PHILADELPHIA

NOT ON THE CALENDAR

What to do now that there’s nothing to do

52 THE END A poet and climate change activist reflects on the power of making a difference.

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A&R Ironworks Iron Works Clout Products Vaporizers The Green Alternative Doctor Medical Marijuana Evaluations & Education Green Dragon Hydroponics Hydroponic Equipment & Supply Green Line Hydroponics Genetics: Clone Propagation Greenhouse Payment Solutions Payment Processing High Expectations Marketing Marketing & Consulting Logic Jiu Jitsu & Thai Boxing Medicinally Jointed Wellness & Beauty Mindleaf CBD Edibles Nearing Nirvana Plant Based Nutrition Pancea Payroll Payroll Processing PA Green Medical Holistic Medicine

Philadelphia Visionary Arts Gallery Art Gallery Ruckus Gallery Smoke Shop Terrapin Care Station Processing Total Cryo Cryotherapy Vireo Health Inc. MMJ Grower Processor

FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA FAC E B O O K Like Sensi Media Group for the parties, topics, and happenings we’re obsessed with right now.

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I N S TAG R A M @sensimagazine is home to exclusive photos and content.

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Magazine published monthly

by Sensi Media Group LLC.

© 2020 Sensi Media Group. All rights reserved.

EXECUTIVE

Ron Kolb Founder, CEO ron@sensimag.com Stephanie Wilson Co-Founder, Editor in Chief stephanie@sensimag.com Mike Mansbridge President mike@sensimag.com Fran Heitkamp Chief Operating Officer fran@sensimag.com Lou Ferris VP of Global Revenue lou@sensimag.com Chris Foltz Director of Global Reach chris@sensimag.com Jade Kolb Director of Project Management jade.kolb@sensimag.com Kristan Toth Head of People kristan.toth@sensimag.com EDITORIAL

Doug Schnitzspahn Executive Editor doug.schnitzspahn@sensimag.com Jenny Willden Managing Editor jenny.willden@sensimag.com Leland Rucker Senior Editor leland.rucker@sensimag.com Robyn Griggs Lawrence Editor at Large robyn.lawrence@sensimag.com Helen Olsson Copy Chief Melissa Howsam Senior Copy Editor Meryl Howsam, Bevin Wallace Copy Editors Julie Raque, Mona Van Joseph Contributing Writers DESIGN

Jamie Ezra Mark Creative Director jamie@emagency.com Rheya Tanner Art Director Wendy Mak, Kiara Lopez, Josh Clark, Jason Jones Designers PUBLISHING

Michael Fanini Publisher mike.fanini@sensimag.com Russell Cacciavillano Associate Publisher russ.cacciavillano@sensimag.com Wendy Lubell Associate Publisher wendy.lubell@sensimag.com Rick Rueda Associate Publisher rick.rueda@sensimag.com B U S I N E S S /A D M I N

We last published an issue of Sensi in March,

and the social-distancing, mask-wearing world we inhabit today feels entirely different from city we inhabited just six months ago. I celebrated my birthday in a crowded brewery, unaware of the havoc coronavirus would wreak on our lives. But when things got real and a stay-at-home order closed basically anything fun— besides outdoor recreation—Sensi magazine’s publishing paused too, a victim of closed stores and slashed budgets.

So we shut down and stayed in. We swapped happy hour for House Party and watched just about everything on Netflix.

During lockdown, our nearly silent city unified around the cause, thanking medical professionals and spreading positivity—until protests of George Floyd’s murder brought unprecedented looting and police attacks on the people. Today, spiking coronavirus cases and a city marred by discord feels little like the one I’ve come to love. With COVID-19 cases topping 32,000 in Philadelphia, Mayor Kenney brought the hammer down on what remains of 2020, canceling all large public events, fairs, parades, and concerts through February 28.

I know a fall with no Eagles games and a New Year with no Mummers isn’t the Philly we love, but if I know anything about this city, it’s what Rocky taught us: When we get knocked down, we get up again, and again, and again. And when this boxing match is a distant memory, I can’t wait to crowd into a bar, sing the Eagles fight song, and chug a Yuengling on draft with all youse guys.

We’re so grateful to be publishing Sensi again, but we recognize that some of this issue’s content may feel incongruous with the times. Much of it was written in the before times, and a shiny new issue isn’t in the current cards. That said, we hope you enjoy reading about flotation therapy, what to do when there’s nothing to do, and how the Broad Street run is rising from the ashes of this unprecedented year.

Thank you to the readers who’ve already reached out via email and tweet to share your love for Sensi Philadelphia. Bear with us as we resume publishing, keep the messages coming, and tell me what you want to see in future digital issues of Sensi Philadelphia.

Stay safe, take care of each other, and wear a damn mask.

If I know anything about this city, it’s what Rocky taught us: When we get knocked down, we get up again, and again, and again.

Amber Orvik Administrative Director amber.orvik@sensimag.com Neil Willis Production Manager neil.willis@sensimag.com M E D I A PA R T N E R S

Marijuana Business Daily Minority Cannabis Business Association National Cannabis Industry Association Students for Sensible Drug Policy

Jenny Willden @jennywillden S U M M E R 2020

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FROM THE EDITOR IN CHIEF

“The new normal” is the slogan

Sensi has been using since its inception.

It appeared on every cover prior to our redesign in December 2019—roughly 200 magazines emblazoned with the phrase. We used it to highlight cannabis’s transition into the mainstream, and during the early days of COVID-19, we watched it become the official catchphrase of the pandemic.

“The New Normal.” How else could you describe it?

With that, I’ll welcome you to Sensi’s new new normal, not to be confused with the old new normal. Much like everything else in this world, our new normal looks a great deal different than it did at the start of this decade, some eight months and a lifetime ago. Way back then, we were printing local magazines in 14 markets across the country, with a 15th (Metro Maryland) slated to launch April 2020. Our creative team was in the midst of sending those editions to print when COVID-19 started to pick up steam. After some hard conversations with our leadership team, we made the call to hit pause on production for a variety of reasons, the main one being that our points of distribution were not going to be distributing during the global pandemic.

If there’s a silver lining to this chaos, it may be that it’s forced us to slow down and examine our lives—to really look at what we do and consider the why and how behind it. It provided a chance to stop the constant doing of trying to meet goals and start thinking about whether those are the right goals to be aiming for at all.

When we made the call to cancel our April editions, we were optimistic that we’d be back in print by June after giving the already-completed editions a little refresh before sending them out. Then we thought we’d return in July. I’m writing this letter on August 7 as the refreshed April editions are all working their way toward being published in the next few days, if all goes as planned.

Little these days is going as planned, for better and for worse, but the past few months have been a bootcamp in staying nimble and having backup plans. Hitting pause allowed us to make a whole lot of plans as we examined our business piece by piece, stripped down to the basics and rebuilt from the ground up using the lessons we stumbled our way through building the Sensi brand. We’re guided by one mission: to serve our readers and our communities by focusing on connection—to information, to each other, to businesses and brands that offer products that meet your needs.

But for the first time in Sensi’s history, we won’t be printing magazines—we’re going all in on digital this month, and we’ll be doubling down on digital next. This shift allows us to increase that reach exponentially, crossing boundaries and borders. And we’ll be doing so without compromising the quality of content and design that draws readers to our magazines, to our brand. We hope to return to print in the not-too-distant future, perhaps no one more than me. I believe in the power of print.

But I also believe in evolution, and the way people consume information is changing. By limiting ourselves to a print publication, we were limiting the impact Sensi could hope to have. But now, with a fresh digital strategy that entails both dynamic local content as well as fully designed digital magazines created by the award-winning team at Em Agency, we’ve got the best of both worlds, and I’m excited to welcome you into the first phase of Sensi’s new digital universe. We’re almost ready to take the scaffolding off Phase 2, so be sure to check back and see what we’ve got planned in order to continue to bring our new normal into the new new normal of the world.

Thank you for being here with us as we rebuild better than we were before.

We’re guided by one mission: to serve our readers and our communities by focusing on connection—to information, to each other, to businesses and brands that offer products that meet your needs.

Stephanie Wilson @stephwilll S U M M E R 2020

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Crochet All Day The country’s first Little Free Fiber Library takes off in West Mt. Airy.

You’ve likely seen one of the more than 90,000 registered Little Free Library boxes around the world, which offer a free place for people to give and get used books. But Mt. Airy’s Wild Hand yarn shop is the first to bring this concept to crafts.

Liz Sytsma, the proprietor of Wild Hand, had the idea to attach a free yarn box next to the shop and enlisted her dad to help to build a small, custom cabinet. It’s nailed to a brick wall and has a lettered nameplate that reads “Little Free Fiber Library.” Inside, it’s stuffed with yarn, needles, patterns, and other donated knitting equipment that’s all free for the taking.

The cabinet is so popular that it fills and empties almost every day.

Part of Sytsma’s inspiration for the project was the area’s popular neighborhood book-sharing exchange cabinets. “You can’t walk a block in Mt. Airy without seeing a Little Free Library,” she says, “and in looking for a way to provide affordable (free!) supplies and invite new fiber crafters to our community, this seemed just right.”

Visit Wild Hand to scoop up free fiber or to shop its collection of unique yarns, knitting supplies, and books.

Wild Hand / 606 Carpenter Ln. / wild-hand.com

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C O N T R I B U TO R S

Rodney Burell, Jenny Willden, Stephanie Wilson

COME ON, GET APPY

Going through something? We all experience moments when we could use some support.

Some of those moments are life-changing, while others are a part of everyday life. If you need to get it off your chest, you need to get Happy, the app.

Described by Vice as “like Uber but for ‘Happy Givers,’” Happy connects you to one of more than 2,000 trained listeners who aren’t there to offer advice or give feedback. They’re just there to support you and make you feel heard. They’ll give you the space to speak openly, anonymously, for as long as you’d like.

For every individual caller referred by the American Heart Association through May 31, 2021, Happy will donate a free first-time call valued at $24 to the American Heart Association’s Support Network, for a minimum donation of $50,000. So download the App now. Call, get support, and be happy.

Available on the Apple App Store and Google Play happythemovement.com

BY THE NUMBERS

$400 MILLION Projected sales of PA’s medical marijuana program in 2020—nearly double that of 2019. True projections between $400M and $500M SOURCE: Marijuana Business Daily

MARKETPLACE

Recovery, Relief & Rejuvenation Lord Jones High CBD Formula Body Oil Not only does Lord Jones sound like someone who wears a monocle on the daily, but this highly recommend recovery oil is infused with 100 milligrams of CBD and made from a combination of safflower, avocado, jojoba, soybean, and sunflower oils. The rollon applicator makes light work of muscle soreness, inflammation, and headaches.

548 GRANTS

True Leaf Hemp Pet Chews Designed to help relax anxious dogs and help with joint pain, these chews contain hemp seeds and oil, chamomile, and lemon balm.

All that’s next is a warm bath and Kenny G.

The number of grants—amounting to $17.5 million— awarded by the PHL COVID-19 Fund. The fund was established to deploy aid to nonprofits serving on the frontlines of coronavirus.

Lucent Botanicals Calm CBD Mints Nobody likes you when you’re stressed, or when your breath smells like the fifth dimension. CBD mints offer the best of both worlds, with 10 milligrams of CBD and breath fresheners. It’s the most literal version of a chill pill we can come up with.

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Sunday Scaries YOLO Energy Shot While we cannot endorse or approve of the use of the word “YOLO” in any situation, this energy shot contains 50 milligrams of THC-free cannabidiol extract (CBD), Vitamins B6, B12, taurine, organic green coffee, 5-HTP, and ginseng, which gives you a jolt of energy without the caffeine jitters.

percent

The percentage of Pennsylvanians who support legalizing cannabis for adult use, according to a statewide poll of likely voters released in May. SOURCE: Pennsylvania Cannabis Coalition

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THE BUZZ

PHOTO CREDITS (FROM TOP): ELENATHEWISE, ADOBE STOCK / BRENT HOFACKER, ADOBE STOCK

Tastes Like Summer Farmers markets are an essential way to create community among like-minded food lovers…and even among chefs. And sustainably oriented chefs and farmers have developed a nice symbiotic relationship that is great for us shoppers and diners. Some of the heirloom and organic greens, beans, and veggies we find at the market are only available because restaurants and natural food stores created a demand.

“If you can make it a habit of coming to the market every week, you will learn so much, even if you don’t buy anything,” shares chef and restaurateur Dakota Soifer. “Talk to the farmers, ask lots of questions.”

Trust and relationship means you might try a new vegetable like kohlrabi with cooking instructions from an expert. If you ask the farmers to show you how to prepare certain items of produce, they tend to advise keeping things simple to allow the taste of the crop to shine.

They might also suggest alternative tweaks like cold smoking eggplant or quick pickling fruits like peaches and melons—both in season this month in the region. They also know the answer to the big question: How much basil does it really take to get a ‘packed cup’ for pesto?”

All this flavor and freshness comes with a price tag. Produce is almost always more expensive at a farmers market. It is worth it because it is fundamentally better for you—higher quality, fresher stuff, you know where it comes from and how it was grown. As the chef reminds us, “It’s great that supermarkets have organic kale available to everyone, but sometimes, smaller is better.”

Expert Tip: Ask farmers if they have any marked-down No. 2 small or bruised produce you can use in cooking.

Pick Your Own: Find a farm near you at pickyourown.org

SUPER EASY GRILLED WHAT’S IN WATERMELON Ripe SEASON? and ready SALAD to eat near you

“I grill the wedges of watermelon with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. I place a round of Cana de Cabra (tangy, creamy goat’s milk cheese) on one half and top it with another wedge of melon, then serve on a salad of arugula mixed with baby lettuces. I drizzle a little super high quality balsamic vinegar on top.” —Chef Jim Smailer

Apples (select early varieties) Asian Pears Blueberries Cantaloupes Cucumbers Eggplant Nectarines Peaches Plums Peppers Raspberries Summer squash Sweet Corn Tomatoes Watermelon

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THE BUZZ

BILITIES

BY STEPHANIE WILSON, EDITOR IN CHIEF

1 IN CASE YOU MISSED THE IRONY of all the Great Gatsbythemed New Year’s Eve parties thrown to welcome in the second coming of the Roaring 20s, let me remind you how that decade ended: not much worse than this one is starting.

2 IN CASE YOU NEED A REMINDER: whatever you’re feeling is valid. There is no right or wrong way to process what we’re going through right now. There is a right way to interact with others right now, though: with care, through a mask, and from a distance.

3 IN CASE YOU’RE FEELING LIKE GOING OUT in public without a mask: stop watching Fox News, you’re being brainwashed. Be a good human, you’re better than that.

4 IN CASE YOU NEED A PICK-ME-UP: pick up a bouquet of blooms the next time you’re at the grocery store. Yes, funds are tight and flowers may seem like a frivolous purchase, but a $6 bouquet can brighten up rooms and moods alike. A 2018 study from the University of North Florida’s Department of Public Health finds that living with flowers “significantly alleviates daily stresses.” And we’re all a little bit stressed right now. Or we’re in denial, which is a stressful state to be in. Flowers will help. Pro tip: for the best flowers at the lowest prices, look for wholesale florists open to the public in your area.

5 IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Denver’s mayor reversed his decision to leave recreational cannabis dispensaries and liquor stores off the list of essential businesses just three hours after the city’s stay-athome order was issued in March. Denverites were clear: flowers— the kind ones with THC—are definitely essential.

“Sound loves to revel in a summer night.”

—Edgar Allan Poe. If you want to spend a dog day of summer lolling around Poe's former Spring Garden home—now a National Historic Site— first check the nps.gov website to ensure its reopened.

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THE BUZZ

Old is New Again

The Canopy by Hilton reinvigorates Midtown’s historic Stephen Girard Building with modern design.

GET BUZZED

Party like a grownup with La Colombe Coffee Roaster’s new alcoholic cold-brew coffee in a can. After testing the drink in Boston, Denver, and Florida last fall, La Colombe’s Hard Cold Brew Coffee is coming home to Philadelphia.

Brewed in collaboration with beer giant MillerCoors, this spiked cold brew is made by combining medium-roasted, cold-pressed Brazil and Colombia coffee beans with alcohol.

Each nine-ounce can is 100 to 110 calories with 50 milligrams of caffeine and 4.2 percent alcohol by volume. It’s available in black and vanilla flavors at La Colombe’s Fishtown flagship café as well as at beer and beverage shops throughout the city.

New hotels are popping up all over Canopy’s perks include complimentary Philadelphia, but we’re most excited local welcome gift at check-in, bikes for the Canopy Hotel by Hilton, which to cruise around the city, nightly spirit launched in East Market in May. Wheth- tastings, plus dog beds and pup perks for er you’re catching a show in the city four-legged guests. The hotel’s Canoor exploring Independence Hall, its py Central restaurant and bar features convenient location offers easy access American cuisine with a French influence to Center City, Old City, the Fashion and is open to locals and guests.

District, and Reading Terminal Market.

The 236 plush rooms feature Serta Cool While the inside design is modern, we memory foam beds, filtered spring water, love Canopy’s reuse of the 19th century cozy bathrobes and slipper socks, and the Stephen Girard Building—saving it option for breakfast delivered to your door.

Canopy by Hilton / 1180 Ludlow St. / canopy3.hilton.com from demolition.

La Colombe Hard Cold Brew lacolombehardcoldbrew.com

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CBN for Zzz TEXT STEPHANIE WILSON

Sleep is a vital sign of health and well-being, and I’m an insomniac— have been for as long as I’ve been an adult. I’m also a magazine junkie, so every month I read 18

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another article about the importance of restful shut-eye and tips to help me achieve it. And I’ve tried them all, to no avail.

I bought blackout curtains, a white noise

machine, and an eye mask. Never much of a coffee drinker, I cut out any remaining caffeine (and became less aggro, but that’s a different story for another issue). I

avoided electronics for an hour before getting into bed; I did nightly wind-down bedtime rituals; I only got into bed when it was time to sleep; I left my devices

PHOTO BY NATA NYTIAGA, SHUTTERSTOCK

Don’t sleep on this lesser-known cannabinoid that may help you sleep.

in the other room. I even got my dog a heated bed that she preferred over sleeping with me. I tried all these things, but sleep still evaded me.

A brief period of reprieve followed my move to Colorado, as I began experimenting with cannabis as a sleep aid. If I smoked a little before bed, I’d fall asleep only to wake up an hour or so later when the effects had worn off. I tried edibles, which helped me fall asleep and stay asleep for hours. After a few nights in a row of some solid sleep, I remember waking up feeling rested and thinking I had found my miracle cure. But then my tolerance started building, and 5 mg wasn’t doing the trick. Then 10 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg, and next thing I’d be lying in the dark, high and paranoid all night long. Even if I got some decent sleep, I was waking up foggy.

For so many people, cannabis works as an invaluable sleep aid with little to no side effects. That wasn’t the case with me.

Enter CBD. A few years ago, CBD was nowhere; now it’s everywhere. Almost literally. Walk into a convenience store, and boom! CBD gummies by the register. CBD water in the refrigerator. Wander into Sephora, and CBD

serums, body lotions, and moisturizers await. Drive down Denver’s I-25 and you’ll see stores dedicated to the cannabinoid. Check my inbox, and you’ll be overwhelmed by a thousand unread emails from PR agencies and agents announcing the launch of a new CBD brand or the release of a first-of-itskind cannabidiol product.

And those are only from the last six months.

It comes in all forms: topical pain creams and tinctures, water, and wine. There’s infused water for pets, infused cereals for breakfast, suppository lubes for sex, and infused Flaming Hot Cheeto knockoffs for afternoon snacks.

When it seems we’ve reached the CBD mania apex, someone somewhere thinks there’s another buck to be made off the craze, and CBD toothpicks, hair pomades, candles, workout gear, bedsheets, and pillows hit the already flooded marketplace. Ridiculous, ubiquitous.

Since you’re reading Sensi, I’m going to assume I’m not telling you anything new. So far. But have you heard about CBN? Cannabinol, or CBN, is one of more than a hundred cannabinoids that have been identified in the cannabis plant.

My anecdotal evidence is in: CBN helps me fall asleep, stay asleep, and wake up rested time and again.

I’m feeling better than I have basically ever. A whole month with full nights of sleep feels like a miracle.

THC and CBD are the two that garner all the attention, and they are the most dominant. A lesser cannabinoid, CBN was actually the first one scientists discovered in the 1940s. It occurs in cannabis in much smaller doses until the plant ages and oxidizes, which causes THC to convert to CBN. And it’s about to get its turn in the spotlight.

Since the FDA classified cannabis as a Schedule I drug in the same category as heroin during the 1970s, researchers have been prevented from studying the plant’s medicinal potential. While that’s changing, there’s a lot of catching up to do, so double-blind, controlled studies and clinical trials have yet to be completed. But anecdotal evidence is in, and CBN is being touted as an all-natural cure for insomnia by cannabis experts and outlets. So, when I saw emails with CBN in the subject line hit my inbox, I didn’t leave them unread. Instead I reached out and asked to try the product being pitched so I could offer my own anecdotal accounts of CBN as a cure for insomnia.

Two months and a lot of full nights of sleep later, my anecdotS U M M E R 2020

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Want a sample of our work? You’re reading it.

Em Agency is proud to be the creative force behind Sensi’s award-winning visual style.

We build brands we believe in—the brand you believe in can be next. emagency.com

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THE LIFE

aromatic notes of cedarwood, black pepper, and California pine, the Sleep formula is proven to help calm the mind and encourage deep, restorative sleep.

All Mineral products are organically grown on a small farm in Colorado that averages a limited run of only four harvests a year.

No cannabinoid acting independently will express the benefit experienced when consuming the whole plant, so Mineral utilizes the hemp plant in its entirety— stalks, stems, and buds— maximizing the omega fatty acids and vitamins in their extraction process. To keep the product consistent, the brand identified formula-specific seeds from Oregon that produce plants with characteristics incumbent to accomplish the targeted benefits of the MINERAL products.

Sleep Tincture After sourcing the How they describe it: seeds from Oregon, For anxiety-induced Mineral supplies them insomnia. Because you to Waayb Organics in deserve to feel good.

Longmont, Colorado, Formulated for those and Waayb leads the suffering from night time anxiety and inflam- cultivation of the plants on an outdoor, seasonmation, Sleep is a blend of calming cannabinoids al, organic grow. After and terpenes associated harvest, processing, and CO₂ extraction, the with sedation to induce a deep, restorative sleep. products go through testing for cannabinoid High in CBD and sequence, terpenes, pesnaturally occurring ticides, and quality.

CBN, coupled with soft

PHOTOS (FROM LEFT): COURTESY OF MINERAL / COURTESY OF PRISMATIC PLANTS

al evidence is in: CBN helps me fall asleep, stay asleep, and wake up rested time and again. I’ve incorporated the cannabinoid into my daily routine, and I’m feeling better than I have basically ever. It’s amazing what a little sleep can do.

A whole month with full nights of sleep feels like a miracle.

Don’t just believe me; try it yourself. Like every drug, CBN affects everybody differently.

These two both worked for me.

Editor’s note: With that much quality control, it’s no wonder GQ included Mineral on its “Best Stuff of 2019” list and that Neiman Marcus picked up the line for its stores.

lief, result from gentle full-flower extraction from organically grown Colorado hemp for a complete cannabinoid profile. Other beneficial ingredients include reishi mushrooms, oatstraw, and ashwagandha $160 for 60 servings mineralhealth.co for positive mood and support of the nervous Prismatic Plants Good and immune systems; Night Tincture skullcap for stress and How they describe it: muscle-tension relief; Formulated with CBN and valerian root (a.k.a and calming adaptogens, nature’s Valium), Calthis nighttime formula ifornia poppy, and lavpromotes deep sleep and ender for anxiety and boosts immunity during insomnia relief. These the body’s overnight re- pure, effective, safe inpair mode. Its long-term gredients are formulated effects include a return to provide immediate to a natural circadian relief and continually rhythm, enhanced imenhance health through munity, improved repro- long-term use. ductive health, and more $70 for a month’s supply prismaticplants.com energy during the day.

The tincture is made with an adaptogenic blend of CBD, CBN, medicinal mushrooms, and organic herbs. The CBD, for overall health and stress relief, and CBN for insomnia re-

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THE LIFE

A B O U T T H E AU T H O R

Mona Van Joseph has been an intuitive since 2002. She is an author, columnist, and host of Psychic View Radio. She created dicewisdom.com, which also has a smartphone app. mona.vegas

HOROSCOPE

AUGUST HOROSCOPE What do the stars hold for you?

TEXT MONA VAN JOSEPH

laxing into the feminine viLEO bration) will benefit you in Stress is caused by your ex- many ways. Allow yourself pectations of other people to be recognized for your this month. If you just accept uniqueness. the fact that you’ll have to do all the work without resent- OCT. 23–NOV. 21 ing or expecting anything, SCORPIO everything will be fine.

No other sign has the ability to get as deep into a soul AUG. 23–SEPT. 22 like you. You will experience VIRGO some epiphany-like insights No coasting, you will miss this month. The most draout on a major opportunity. matic of which will be your Follow up with anything that intimate connection to the secures your future comknowledge of the Universe. fort. Awareness to detail will avoid any misunderstandNOV. 22–DEC. 21 ings with those who will con- SAGITTARIUS tribute to your success.

You’ve been working hard and feeling unappreciated. The isSEPT. 23–OCT. 22 sue is not the work you’re proLIBRA ducing; it’s that your heart is Be prepared to get attention not in it. That’s why you’re not from people you don’t know getting the acclaim and recnow. The vibration of conognition you want. It’s not the necting with women (and re- place; it’s you.

JULY 23–AUG. 22

DEC. 22–JAN. 19

CAPRICORN

August calls for joyful seriousness of the things important to you. It doesn’t matter if you’re building tables for squirrels or changing the world. A casual awareness for your love of life draws more loving.

JAN. 20–FEB. 18

AQUARIUS

A happy did-the-work breakthrough month for you! That project or idea is ready to go full fledge out there right now. What’s so cool is that you get to do this in a relaxed, “I know it’ll be fabulous” vibration…and it will!

FEB. 19–MARCH 20

PISCES

So last month was sort of sucky because you had to resolve to honor your worth

LEO, IF YOU JUST ACCEPT THE FACT THAT YOU’LL HAVE TO DO ALL THE WORK WITHOUT RESENTING OR EXPECTING ANYTHING, EVERYTHING WILL BE FINE.

and dump what wasn’t working. A sign from the Universe this month validates why you had to set this new standard.

thing. The Universe is speaking to you.

MAY 21–JUNE 20

GEMINI

Do not allow yourself to MARCH 21–APRIL 19 be short-changed, comproARIES mised, or cheapened. Stay Be aware that you are always strong in your worth and connected to spiritual purauthenticity. The right oppose and guidance. Take noth- portunity is about to presing for granted and be delight- ent itself. fully ready when coincidence JUNE 21–JULY 22 prompts you to action.

CANCER

APRIL 20–MAY 20

TAURUS

As soon as you relax into your direct connection with Spirit, everything shifts for you. You do not need (or want) to do things the way anyone else does some-

This is not an action month.

What is meant for you will just come to you. No chasing after what you want.

It’s a time of concentrating on what brings you a sense of peace, harmony, and contentment.

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THE LIFE

GO THERE

WELLNESS

Flotation Philly 1314 N. Front St., Fishtown flotationphilly.com

Float Away

How sensory deprivation can reduce pain and stress.

You’ve likely heard the terms “sensory deprivation” and “flotation therapy” before. Sensory deprivation spas took off in Philadelphia about five years ago, but the popularity of these Epsom-salt-and-waterfilled tanks continues.

New twists combining flotation therapy with massages, cannabis, and even yoga adds to its de-stressing benefits.

We sat down with Russ Stewart, owner of Fishtown’s Flotation 24

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Philly, which celebrates its fifth anniversary this year, to chat about the perks of flotation therapy and what he’s up to next.

What is flotation therapy?

Flotation therapy is an experience of total weightlessness combined with limiting your exposure to any outside stimuli. We start with 1,000 pounds of Epsom salt then add 250 gallons of water. After the salt

dissolves, this solution is four times denser than the Dead Sea. So, even in just 10 inches of water, everyone floats. That salt water is then heated to 94 degrees and held at that temperature.

Choose to float with lights and music, using guided meditations, or in the dark inside a silent tank. The purpose is sensory deprivation: turn off your five senses and embrace the experience of forced relaxation.

What are the benefits of floating and who should try it?

Floating increases your dopamine response, reduces inflammation and physical pain, lowers heart rate, increases blood flow, decreases cortisol production, and promotes healthy sleep.

The effortless floating creates a deeply relaxing environment as there are no pressure points on the body, allowing you to truly unwind. That said, floating is a prac-

PHOTO BY VLORZOR, ADOBE STOCK

TEXT JENNY WILLDEN

THE LIFE WELLNESS

PHOTOS COURTESY OF RUSS STEWART

tice like yoga or working out. While you can have a great experience going once, the benefits increase by floating regularly.

We’re a “flowerfriendly” float center, which means we allow our clients to smoke, vape, or take edibles in the shop. This way, anyone who wants to combine cannabis with a float can without needing to do so at home and then drive.

won’t. (You can also get out of the flotation tank at any time.)

Do you offer overnight floats and what are the perks?

Yes! You can book overnight floats online. PSA: Sleeping while floating is totally safe. There’s no risk of drowning because the tank only has 10 inches of water—you Not in Fishtown? Try one of these three can always sit up. Unflotation therapy centers near you. less you intentionally lay face down in the water, Stillpoint Yoga Float there’s no concern of inCombine yoga and flotation therapy at this spa jury from floating overWon’t we be bored just offering heated vinyasa yoga and meditation night, or even just taking floating in a tank? classes to boost the therapeutic benefits.

King of Prussia / stillpointyogafloat.com a quick nap during a Potentially, but what is 60-minute float. fantastic about sensory Halcyon Floats The best benefit I’ve deprivation is how your This float-focused spa has 90-minute private mind adjusts. You fill in found from overnights sessions and couple’s floats (only at the the gaps. Your thoughts is super-charged sleep.

Roxborough location).

When I travel to different become visual, like a Northern Liberties and Roxborough / halcyonfloats.com time zones, I have troudaydream. You’re lucid East Coast Float Spa and aware, but what you ble adjusting my circadiThis suburban spa pairs floating with an see is immersive (I’m us- an rhythm back to Philaoxygen bar and zero-gravity massage chairs ing the term ‘see’ merely delphia time. My life hack to enhance your post-float Zen state. is to do an overnight float as an expression). The West Chester / eastcoastfloatspa.com the day I get back to reset experience can be so detailed that it feels like my body clock. When I plugging into the Matrix. wake up in the morning, my body and mind feel up comedy. So, starting part is why I think that synchronized again. It’s How does time in April or May we will a massage [and a float] amazing! pass in the tank? be partnering with Matt is the perfect pairing.

Surprisingly fast! Nine McCusker and Shane If your body is already out of 10 first-time float- How does massage Gillis from Matt and relaxed, the adjustment enhance the floating ers tell us that their 60Shane’s Secret Podcast to to quieting your mind experience? or 90-minute session launch a new comedy Our current location has is quicker, and I believe only felt like 30 to 45 series. The name is still four float rooms and two you get more out of the minutes. But the time being kicked around— management gets better massage rooms. I tend to experience.

Secret Comedy is my faexplain floating in two the more you float. If vorite—but you’ll have to After five years in you’re worried that time parts: getting your body follow us on social media business, what’s next? relaxed and then quietwill feel like it’s standto find out more.

I’ve always loved standing still; I promise you it ing your mind. The first

Get Your Float On

ABOUT THE OWNER Russ Stewart decided to completely pivot careers from working at a commodities brokerage firm to opening his own float spa after trying flotation therapy himself.

He visited over 20 other float centers before designing and opening his own to make sure he got the flotation experience right.

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The iconic Broad Street Run’s popularity endures— despite inclement weather.

TEXT JENNY WILLDEN

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE BROAD STREET RUN

T

he rain is pouring down. My shoes are soaked, and I’m wearing a poncho fashioned from a trash bag to keep the deluge at bay. I don’t want to go running today. This is the weather I hate most, and frankly, it’s way too early to be standing in this throng of people. But still, I find myself corralled with 35,000 strangers on a cold May morning when, really, I should be at brunch.

I know what you’re thinking: Why would anyone do this? In Philly, there’s only one answer. It’s Broad Street Run day.

Since 1980, runners have laced their shoes, pinned on their race numbers, and lined up at Broad Street and W. Fisher Avenue to race down America’s longest continuous straight street. Though the Broad

Street Run began with just 500ish competitors, it’s since grown into a race behemoth: the largest and fastest 10-miler in America.

Its origin story is simple. “It was a labor of love by these city workers who were on the cutting-edge of the running trend,” says Leo Dignam, the Broad Street Run’s race director. “It was their job to create running experiences for people in the city, and a couple of them who were runners started this 10-mile run all the way down Broad Street.”

“For the last 40 years, runners have lined up in droves to test their mettle at the Broad Street Run. But thanks to COVID-19, for the first time in its history, 2020 affords them no in-person race to rise to the challenge. To the disap-

pointment of not just Pennsylvanians, but runners from across the nation and around the world who come to conquer this course, the 2020 Broad Street Run was recently turned virtual. Despite its earlier pandemic postponement to Sunday, October 4, 2020, organizers citing safety concerns (and a citywide ban on large gatherings) have shifted this year’s Broad Street Run entirely online.

Registered racers are automatically signed up and receive the 2020 race t-shirt, a medal, a neck gaiter, and hand sanitizer in the mail. Just run and record your own 10-miler from September 12–28, 2020 then submit your results online. Though there are no 2020 registration refunds, you’ll get a sweet bonus next year: guaranteed 2021 S U M M E R 2020

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entry. With the Broad Street Run’s 40,000 slots now filled by lottery—this lets you skip the line— and save 20 percent on next year’s registration fee. Dignam says the odds for getting into the race are in your favor: of those who enter the lottery, 85 to 88 percent are selected. If you’re seriously unlucky, you can still gain a slot through one of Broad Street’s charity partners. “[Runners] have to raise $500 for the charity,” Dignam says, “but most [of the nonprofits] have a party, VIP tent, special shirts, and their own buses. There are perks.”

As for me, it’s my third year drawing a Broad Street slot, and after 2016’s pouring rain and 2018’s lackluster finish time, I’m here to redeem myself with a 2019 run.

But the weather won’t cooperate. My then-fiancé, Christian, had practically begged me to let him stay in bed, but I’d shot down the idea: you can’t just give up on Broad Street.

You could argue that running in a straight line (aside from that curve around City Hall) would be dull— but the cheer stations along the course will make you believe otherwise. “Last year we had 39 cheer zones, which might be a record,” Dignam says. “So many groups want to come out and support the runners racing down Broad.”

“We have several churches,” Dignam says. “One is a quarter-mile from the start. Hundreds of runners go to its special mass before the race.”

Despite running races being declared by some as “The Worst Parades Ever,” people come in droves to spectate. Even in the rain, the church’s gospel choir sings outside, Temple’s marching band plays, and

soaked spectators hold Philly-inspired signs like “Run for Cheesesteaks” and “Trust the Process.”

For Philadelphians, Broad Street is the beating, bleeding heart of our city. It’s the marching ground of Mummers, the victory celebration site of our Championship Eagles (Go Birds!), and the home of pope parades and Easter promenades. Philly is Broad Street, and Broad Street is Philly.

There’s arguably nowhere in Philly that matters more to us than this dirty, diverse strip, which makes running down it or cheering alongside it a bucket list goal. Even when your legs are hurting and you want to quit, you can’t help but be inspired at this show of support.

HISTORY OF THE RUN The Broad Street Run wasn’t always so big or so beloved. Initially, its tiny group of racers was small enough to run right through the center archways of City Hall. The

race grew and grew, but Dignam says a partnership with Blue Cross in the ’90s and its subsequent media campaign made the race go viral. “We went from 5,000 runners in 1997 to 25,000 in 2005. Now we’re up to 40,000.”

The racers themselves have changed too. Dignam’s favorite Broad Street story dates back to the first race. “One of the guys who started the race said there were three or four people with cigarettes hanging out of their mouths at the start,” Dignam laughs. “Back then, people weren’t concerned about smoking and running 10 miles.”

Forty years in, six racers remain who’ve run each and every Broad Street Run. (Though one competitor in his 80s claimed he would finally hang up his running shoes after last year’s 40th anniversary.)

The others, and anyone who’s run the race 10 times, receive guaranteed entry.

Repeat racer Keith Tomaselli can’t resist Broad Street’s appeal. The 2007 Broad Street was his first-ever organized race, and the most he’d run in training was six miles.

“I was petrified,” says Tomaselli, who’s now an ultra-marathoner and preparing for his 14th consecutive Broad Street race. “It was my gateway for sure and my first running love. It’s Philadelphia’s greatest race. Boston has the marathon and Philadelphia has Broad Street!”

BROADLY SPEAKING For Philadelphians, Broad Street is the beating, bleeding heart of our city. It’s the marching ground of Mummers, victory celebration site of our Championship Eagles, and home of pope parades and Easter promenades. Philly is Broad Street, and Broad Street is Philly.

EXPERIENCES OVER ENDURANCE Unlike Disney races where you’ll plunk down $150 to race past Mickey in the Magic Kingdom, Broad Street remains surprisingly affordable at $57 and simple enough to train for, thanks to its flat course.

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30

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one wanted to run a marathon.

Now I think the younger generation is looking for more experiential runs,” Dignam says.

We’re living in a millennial world, and while some come to Broad Street to compete, most come for the experience. “It runs through almost every neighborhood in the city, all the way from the north side to the south side,” Dignam says.

“People who lived outside Philly thought it was cool to run down the longest straight street in the country and all these neighborhoods.”

FINISHING STRONG Though the race is short of a half-marathon, for me the miles seem to lag beyond City Hall where the crowds thin. But finisher medals await, and we motivate our feet past Boot & Saddle and South Philly’s sights. Soon enough, the gates of The Navy Yard appear, and

we’re funnelled into a half-milelong finisher chute. (As crowds cheer you on through this section, not smiling or tearing up is next to impossible—just give in already.)

Local television stations livestream the entire race, and we can’t resist shouting “Hi Mom” and blowing kisses as we go by the cameras.

When Christian and I see that quarter-mile to the finish sign, we start to sprint. We’ve long ditched our ponchos and have been knocking out negative splits in the race’s second half. Though sore and sweaty, we’re smiling. We cross the finish line with hands raised and hearts pounding—besting my personal record by a full three minutes.

Once that Broad Street medal is hung around our necks, we’ve refueled with a soft pretzel—and taken one-too-many medal selfies—the 10 miles of undertraining regrets, naysaying, and rainy

exhaustion are quickly forgotten.

Only elation remains.

WHAT’S NEW AND NEXT While not much can change on this iconic route, Broad Street itself is different these days—with the Divine Lorraine’s revitalization and new restaurants banishing blight from the block. And the race is still evolving. For the 2020 event, which was slated for May 3 before COVID-19 came to town, racers were scheduled to toe the line at 7:30 a.m. instead of 8 a.m.

“Believe it or not, the start time 40 years ago was 9 a.m.” says Dignam—who blames the start time change on Philly’s sports teams finally succeeding. “The 76ers and Flyers are getting into the playoffs now. It wasn’t so bad when they stunk. But now they can have a game on Broad Street Run Day.” The earlier start allows time to clear the parking lots for paying sport spectators.

With large events canceled in Philly until early next year, we can only dream of a day when the Broad Street Run and sports will again conflict on the same day.

For now, all we can do is hope for fair weather and a banished virus in 2021. “We’ve only had rain 10 times in our 40-year history,” says Dignam. “The odds are in our favor this year.”

Come rain or shine, I’ll be lacing up my sneakers on May 2021 (pandemic notwithstanding).

Even if it’s a terrible, miserable day, I’ll be running with 35,000 strangers who, on race day, seem more like friends. (After all, this is the City of Brotherly Love.)

Boston can keep its marathon; in Philly, we’ve got Broad Street.

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lis s b BODY MADE FOR

Do you know you have an endocannabinoid system?

You do. Your self is full of cellular receptors that bind with the active ingredients in cannabis known as cannabinoids.

So why have we just now started to hear about it?

TEXT LELAND RUCKER PHOTO ILLUSTRATIONS JOSH CLARK

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O

ne thing I’ve noticed over the years, when talking with my cannabis-using friends, is that they are more likely to say it makes them feel “normal” rather than “stoned.” I generally answer that “it keeps me balanced” or something

ORIGINAL PHOTO BY CHARLIE, ADOBE STOCK

s along those lines. I would never say that about other mind-altering substances (alcohol, for instance), and it’s at least one reason millions of us keep coming back for more.

But why do so many people who use cannabis feel that way? A couple of years ago, I began reading about

something called the endocannabinoid system, a regulating procedure within the body that works in much the same way cannabis does. My bs detector turned bright red. Yeah, right. Even for an advocate, that seemed a little too much to swallow, a little too good to be true.

There is much evidence that cannabis, or what’s in cannabis, has been used to treat symptoms of human illnesses, disorders, and diseases in many cultures for centuries and that it was a standard pharmaceutical product in the United States. Today, after decades of lies

This article was originally published in Sensi Denver/Boulder August 2017 edition

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Fighting for freedom is Join the revolution at norml.org

FREEDA MICHAUX, ADOBE STOCK

from the government and popular culture’s continuing depiction of marijuana users as inept “stoners,” we’re finding that ordinary people are using cannabis for pain, arthritis, and muscle relief and—surprise—just to relax. But why?

Cannabinoids are chemical compounds found in cannabis plants, more than a hundred different ones so far. For the most part, no other plant accumulates them quite like cannabis, and these cannabinoids provide the plant with everything from pest resistance to relief from the sun’s UV rays. The most recognized are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), known for its psychoactive properties, and cannabidiol (CBD), recognized for its medical applications. “Many people have tried THC and CBD. Those are called phytocannabinoids,” says biochemist Samantha Miller, founder of Pure Analytics, a cannabis testing facility in California.

Scientists have also discovered cannabinoids that are produced naturally in the body. Called endocannabinoids, they have structures similar to phytocannabinoids. Raphael Mechoulam, William Devane, and Dr. Lumir Hanus found the first endocannabinoid and called it anandamide after the Sanskrit word for bliss, in 1992, and later found another, called 2-arachidonoylglycero, or 2-AG. So far, so good. In 1988, scientists found receptors in all mammals that respond to cannabinoids, CB-1 receptors found in the brain and CB-2 receptors found throughout the body. These endocannabinoids hook up with these receptors. In biochemistry, it’s called the “lock-and-key” model, where the cannabinoid molecules act like

this natural architecture to interact with cannabinoids,” Miller says.

“You find these all over the body, in the nervous system, the immune system, everywhere. The endocannabinoids control and influence a lot of different things, like sleep, appetite, anxiety, addiction, the cardiovascular system, immune system—everything to do with quality of life.”

Perry Solomon is the former chief medical officer at HelloMD, a popular wellness website with a growing number of patients using cannabis.

He describes the endocannabinoid system as a feedback mechanism that helps keep the body in equilibrium. “When you get excessive stimulation, pain, emotions, or bad experiences, chemicals are released that can overwhelm the body,” he says. “Endocannabinoids are a way to keep the body in balance.”

There are literally thousands of —Perry Solomon, HelloMD research papers and studies around the world on cannabinoids. But cannabis research remains a somewhat arcane branch of science in the United States, which, under the “keys” that fit into the CB receptor auspices of the National Institute of Drug Abuse, until recently would “locks.” When the CB receptor is fund only projects that were aimed “unlocked” by a particular cannaat the abuse side of the equation. binoid, it changes its shape, and US researchers still encounter how it changes shape determines how it regulates cell signaling (how bureaucratic hassles, lack of adequate study product, and the fact cells communicate within themthat cannabis remains a Schedule selves and how they communicate I drug, which by definition means with other cells). From a chemical standpoint, THC is structurally it has no medical purpose. “Consimilar to anandamide, and CBD is ventional medicine traditionally has concentrated on opioids,” says comparable to 2-AG. THC “unDr. Selma Holden, a physician and locks” the CB-1 receptor in almost assistant clinical professor at the the same way anandamide does, and CBD “unlocks” the CB-2 recep- University of New England. But even US scientists and doctors are tor much like 2-AG. beginning to recognize that some“The reason we interact with cannabis so strongly is that we have thing’s going on.

“WHEN YOU GET EXCESSIVE STIMULATION, PAIN, EMOTIONS, OR BAD EXPERIENCES, CHEMICALS ARE RELEASED THAT CAN OVERWHELM THE BODY. ENDOCANNABINOIDS ARE A WAY TO KEEP THE BODY IN BALANCE."

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ORIGINAL PHOTO BY JAMES MOSLEY, ADOBE STOCK

“Historically, people just thought cannabis was something that got you high and concentrated on the THC. Because of medical-marijuana efforts and a little increase in evidence, they’re starting to come around,” she explains. “And more patients are turning to their medical doctors and saying, ‘this stuff works for me.’”

As recently as 2017, the University of Vermont was the only medical school in the country with an accredited course on the endocannabinoid system in its curriculum. “The people who should know about it aren’t taught it in medical school,” says Solomon, and he understands some doctors’ initial reluctance to deal with the endocannabinoid system. “Until doctors come out and become familiar with what’s involved in the system, there’s a hesitancy.”

Oncologists, who already know it helps relieve the nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy, are among the leading edge of physicians beginning to take cannabis seriously, and other specialists are looking into cannabinoid alternatives, Solomon says. “A recent National Academies of Science study found that cannabinoids are being used to treat chronic pain in adults, and it does work,” he says. “So anesthesiologists are saying, ‘Maybe this is something we should look at.’”

Holden says that some of the most exciting research today concerns cannabinoids’ anti-inflammatory qualities. “When you think of it, a lot of diseases, not all of them, have an inflammation component,” she says. “In dementia, in asthma, it’s all inflammation. That’s what’s interesting about the endocannabinoid system. It’s influencing these inflammation markers.”

“WE CAN'T FALL TOO MUCH INTO THE BELIEF SYSTEM THAT HAVING AN ALTERED STATE OF CONSCIOUSNESS IS BAD." —Dr. Selma Holden, University of New England

Much of the research is being done at the behest of drug companies eager to create new products from cannabinoids and able to afford the expensive re-search needed for approval. GW Pharmaceuticals has developed a couple of cannabidiol products to combat epilepsy, and its Epidiolex was approved by the FDA in 2018 for the treatment of seizures—the first cannabis plant-derived medicine ever approved by the FDA. Arizona company Insys Therapeutics recently received preliminary DEA approval for a synthetic cannabis drug called Syndros. (The company also contributed to the successful effort to stop a marijuana legalization initiative in that state last year.)

Much of the emphasis on cannabis healing these days is concentrated around CBD and marketed for its non-psychoactive effects. Hold-

en cautions that if someone is using cannabis for a chronic condition like back pain or Crohn’s disease, the feeling of elevation can be an important part of the therapy, too.

“We can’t fall too much into the belief system that having an altered state of consciousness is bad.”

And that gets us back to where we began. That altered state of consciousness that has offered me and so many people a feeling of relaxation, of being in a place where they can be creative and focused or as a way to deal with common maladies. “Our brains are ideally suited for cannabis,” Chris Kilham, an author and ethnobiologist who studies plant-based remedies as the Medicine Hunter on Fox News, told me. “There’s no substance other than water that has the health benefits and continued significance of those benefits.”

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Get Schooled The Wine School of Philadelphia offers education on all things boozy.

TEXT JENNY WILLDEN

Whether you’re a master mixologist or a boxedwine enthusiast, there’s a place in the city where you can take your spirit skills to the next level: 40

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the Wine School of Philadelphia, located in Rittenhouse Square. The school’s name is a bit of a misnomer, as it offers classes six days a week

on a wide variety of alcohol offerings.

From tasting tequila to learning the secrets of sommeliers, you can complete your spirit

studies at the Wine School of Philadelphia—without seeking a degree. While the school offers certifications for sommeliers through

GO THERE

(FACING PAGE) PHOTO BY CATHIE BERREY-GREEN AND AL GREEN FOR BEAUMONDE ORIGINALS

Philadelphia Wine School 109 S. 22nd St., Philadelphia vinology.com

certified semester-long master classes, it also invites regular Joes to learn through its libation education experiences.

Dani Wojnicki, the Wine School’s event director, specializes in creating one-of-a-kind events for corporations and private groups. But her involvement with the school started over a decade ago when she was a student.

“I started attending the Wine School 10 years ago because I liked a sauvignon blanc and wanted to learn more about it,” Wojnicki says. “I fell in love with the wine, the tasting, the com-

ure that Wojnicki hopes the school will soon expand with an event facility in Rittenhouse.

Those looking to advance their spirit education can sign up for semester-length master classes—typically held one day a week for eight weeks. Or you can round up your girlfriends, partner, or friends for a night of learning at oneoff courses.

“You could come to tequila night, get a gist of how to make the perfect tequila cocktail, and have a chance to taste things you wouldn’t buy on your own,” Wojnicki says. “There’s Craft Beer plexity, and learning 101, Sommelier Secrets, about how people and courses on pairing make wine.” bourbon and food.”

She continued learning The only problem at the school, receiving with the Wine School multiple certifications of Philadelphia’s classes over her 10 years of are their popularity. studies. “If you are a student there and love the journey of wine, it’s just where you want to be,” Wojnicki says. While she had planned to venture out with a food and wine business she called Sip & Graze, the dream opportunity to run events for the Wine School drew her back in.

“I feel like I’m home,” she says of being at the Wine School and making its events business succeed. Events have grown so much during her ten-

Classes sell out—fast.

“If you plan to attend a Philly Wine School event, you’ll want to look a few months ahead to book your classes,” Wojnicki says. “They sell out that quickly.”

If the class you want to take is sold out, Wojnicki suggests branching out and trying something new. “I recommend going in with an open mind. It’s pretty much guaranteed that you’ll find something you love. There’s something for everyone.”

Whether you’re interested in the Wine School coordinating your dad’s 60th birthday, are planning a corporate event, or want to simply boost your booze knowledge, the Wine School of Philadelphia is your local source for know-how.

PAIRING PARTIES Bring a crew or fly solo at the school’s weekly tasting events.

CENTER CITY SETTING The Wine School is located right in Rittenhouse Square, one of Philly’s most popular neighborhoods.

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THE SCENE WELLNESS

Headline Goes Here Lorem ipsum quam que dolor res.

TEXT AUTHOR A. PERSON

Lorem ipsum quam que dolor res.

Only Natural Medicine’s future is plant-based.

TEXT JULIE RAQUE

The evolution of medicine dates back thousands of years and spans many continents and belief systems. From ancient Ayurvedic medicine to the most modern developments in pharmaceuticals, medicine 42

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has changed and shifted drastically over the past 5,000 years. With the mass availability of information, humans have become educated in the world of medicine and empowered to choose the practices to which

they wish to subscribe.

We’ve relied primarily on Western medicine and pharmaceuticals, but we can expect plant-based remedies to play a role in health trends in the year to come as people incorporate holistic healing

practices into their daily regimens as preventative and retroactive measures.

People will look to the root cause of disease, not just symptoms.

Often when people fall ill, they look to treat

THE SCENE WELLNESS

what they consider the worst part of their illness—the symptoms they’re experiencing— as quickly as possible.

People are starting to understand that they need to solve the root cause of a disease rather than superficial symptoms.

With information readily accessible, people can understand why they may be feeling a certain way and what they can do to prevent an illness moving forward. More than ever, people are looking toward how active they are, vitamins and minerals, nutrients, and diet to uncover what’s causing their symptoms. They will, in turn, be invested in learning about how different plant-based

remedies address both symptoms and root causes, and how these can lead them on a path to better health and wellness overall.

People will look to natural remedies before pharmaceuticals.

Botanic remedies have been providing relief for thousands of years.

While the pharmaceutical industry has focused on isolating, synthesizing, and patenting specific chemicals and molecular compounds, alternative remedies employ natural treatments stemming from the plant kingdom. People now understand the harm an antibiotic can do to your gut flora, digestive sys-

tem, and kidneys, especially if it is interacting with another antibiotic in your system. Many will look to herbs, spices, fruits, and vegetables to ease symptoms and issues such as anxiety, sleeplessness, mood swings, and adrenal fatigue before reaching for the medicine cabinet.

Consumers will experiment with different methods.

There are less invasive ways to treat things like pain and sore muscles than popping Ibuprofen or acetaminophen, including cannabinoid-based topicals, lotions, tinctures, and inhalants. Over-thecounter pain relievers

can interact adversely with your kidneys and liver, a difficult trade-off for someone looking to alleviate a headache. Topicals allow you to target a certain area and reapply as necessary, making them a more appropriate treatment for acute pain.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Julie Raque is vice president of marketing for The Root of It All, which makes cannabis-based remedies, and Cannabistry, a leading cannabis research and development organization. She has helped launch highly valued pharmaceutical products, including Harvoni.

People will look toward other cultures.

More people are looking to ancient Eastern and Ayurvedic principles to figure out why they may be feeling the way they are and how to treat it.

Both ancient Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine practices utilize plants in their healing strategies and emphasize balance between mind, body, and spirit.

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THE SCENE CALENDAR

Empty Calendar What to do when there’s nothing to do.

PHOTO BY LOLOSTOCK, ADOBE STOCK

TEXT SENSI EDITORS

The dog days of summer are upon us. In our modern lexicon, that popular term has dual meanings: 1) the period between early July and early September when the hot sultry weather of summer occurs in the Northern Hemisphere;

2) a period of stagnation or inactivity.

In 2020, the dog days of summer were mauled by the pandemic, which continues to force people around the globe to endure lengthy periods of inactivity. But just because travel dreams were

dashed this year doesn’t mean you can’t take your mind to new places. Here are some quick suggestions about ways to fill the long days ahead.

Get Lost in a Good Book Because your brain can’t take any. more. Netflix.

And you can’t take any more…well, anything.

As the Book of Disquiet author Fernando Pessoa wrote, “Literature is the most agreeable way of ignoring life.”

Not much of a reader? No problem. Trevor Noah, Jamie Lee Curtis, S U M M E R 2020

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THE SCENE CALENDAR

PHOTO CREDITS (FROM TOP): SOMEMEANS, ADOBE STOCK / ALFA27, ADOBE STOCK

Mariah Carey, Kevin Bacon, Alicia Silverstone, James McAvoy, and so many other leading performers can do the reading. All you’ve got to do is listen, which you can do while going about your day. Or while not going anywhere: your call.

A 2018 University College London study showed that listening to audiobooks is more emotionally engaging than watching TV and movies—findings consistent across all demographics regardless of the genre.

Audible is your go-to source for premium offerings available on demand

If you haven’t already done the Audible free trial, what better time than now to take advantage of the deal: 60-day free trial plus two free audiobooks, then $14.95 for one credit per month, good for any book regardless of price, and you can cancel anytime .

Got a library card?

Download the Libby app, which allows you to borrow and read ebooks and audiobooks from your local public library for free. Don’t have a library card? Well now you have something else to do right now when there’s not a whole lot to do.

Make (Bad?) Art The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City may be temporarily closed (as of press time), but its website, moma.org, invites you to experience the world through its artistic lens.

Take in the Virtual Views by exploring NYC architecture online. Listen to hours of art-inspired music on summer playlists curated by MoMa staffers. From artists’ musical inspirations to cinema soundtracks to the “alien” sounds of the avant-garde, the museum’s Spotify playlists include one dedicated

to the music of Miró; The “Rosanne Cash, the River, and the Thread” includes some thoughts the singer-songwriter shared about weaving, making art, and writing music—and made a playlist to accompany the exhibition. The set featuring songs about and inspired by works of art sets the perfect soundtrack to an afternoon spent engrossed in any of the museum’s free online courses, including “Fashion as Design” and “Postwar Abstract Painting,” taught through online portal Coursera (coursera.org/moma).

QUARANTINE LISTENING PARTY Our editor in chief Stephanie Wilson ranks the seven novels she “read” during shutdown.

7. Trust Exercise

by Susan Choi 6. Men Without Women

by Huraki Murakami 5. Writers & Lovers

by Lily King 4. Normal People

by Sally Rooney 3. Rodham

by Curtis Sittenfeld 2. All Adults Here

by Emma Straub 1. Weather

by Jenny Offill

“We have art so that we shall not die of reality.”

—Friedrich Nietzsche

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P R O M OT I O N A L F E AT U R E MINDLEAF

Finding a Better Way Stay Healthy This company founder dumped her pharmaceuticals for CBD—then built her own CBD product manufacturing business.

C

annabis chef and entrepreneur Liz Walter started her own cannabusiness after experiencing the effects of using the usual pharmaceutical products to help with her anxiety—Xanax and others.

The Xanax worked on one level, but she wanted to feel better and not have to deal with the pharmaceutical’s side effects. “I wasn’t too happy about taking those products,” says Walter, owner of Mindleaf, which sells artisan edibles. “So, I started using CBD from another company to offset my anxiety medication and found that 15 milligrams was the best level for me. The CBD was really effective, and I felt a lot healthier. But it tasted really bad.”

does for the body and found out that it would work as well for pets as it does for humans. “There are a lot of the same cannabinoid receptors in animals that are in humans, and animals suffer some of the same things as humans do, like arthritis and anxiety.”

Mindleaf, which opened a storefront in early February in Easton, Pennsylvania, makes unusual snack edibles, such as garlic pretzels. “We want to corner the savory snack market because we feel it is untapped. I am also a snacker; I eat pretzels and popcorn.

Popcorn is another CBD edible product that we are working on,” she says.

Mindleaf offers three types of CBD-infused pretzels, plus CBD-infused peanut butter, triple berry jam, and honey.

The brand does its own infusion and rents space for doing its work in a kitchen. One of Walter’s goals is to open her own manufacturing facility so she can have a space that is privately owned. “I can run the show there.” she says.

Walter decided to use her background in cooking to make eating CBD-infused foods a more enjoyable experience. She started with an edibles line in spring 2019 and also got into making tinctures because they offer a more controlled dosage for consumers, she says.

Her mother, a seamstress, was suffering from arthritis and asked Walter to create a salve to ease the pain.

“The salve was the first product [we made] that was not an actual edible,” she says. “Then we branched into tinctures and pet treats. And it’s been going really well.”

Pet treats were a natural addition Mindleaf to Mindleaf’s product line. Walter Artisan Edibles and her partner researched what CBD mindleafcbd.com

“We want to corner the savory snack market because we feel it is untapped.”

—Liz Walter, founder of Mindleaf

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THE END

New Volunteers TEXT KATY GURIN

PHOTO BY TRADOL, ADOBE STOCK

In the sun, we circled after speaking to our senator’s staff.

We’d given them a list—four steps to transition from fossil fuels— and received no promises for action. Why then, I wondered, were we so giddy?

As we spoke of the hard work ahead, why did we feel relief?

Before that day, alone in an office, I’d plotted the rise of the future sea, thinking this is the arc of my story: since my birth we’d burned more fossil fuels than all years prior, the decades left to stop this burning were the span of my career, and all I could do on my own was switch out my lightbulbs and mourn.

But on that day, each of us felt—I’m sure of it— that as we composed our letter we’d summoned a new sense of possibility, and in delivering it together: power.

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