Vital Holistic Care (formerly The Cannabis Nurses + Co) Presents: Understanding Cannabis for Health & Wellness
– A Three-Part Educational Series hosted by the Westend Seniors Activity Centre
Vital Holistic Care is excited to facilitate a three-part educational series in collaboration with WESeniors, offering an in-depth exploration of cannabis history, science, and practical guidance for safe and informed use. With seniors being one of the fastest-growing demographics of cannabis consumers, this series aims to provide clarity, dispel myths, and empower attendees with knowledge about this increasingly recognized therapeutic plant.
Part One: Cannabis Overview, Stigma & FAQ’s
This foundational session introduces attendees to the essential elements of cannabis, while addressing stigma, myths, and frequently asked questions. We’ll explore a brief history of cannabis use and legalization, an introduction to the Endocannabinoid System (the system cannabis interacts with and an integral system to understanding root causes of our health and wellbeing), understanding the therapeutic properties of cannabis components (like THC and CBD), how to access cannabis safely (medical vs recreational markets) and understanding important precautions and contraindications.
Part Two: Cannabis for Sleep & Mood Support
Sleep disturbances and mood challenges such as anxiety or depression are common concerns among older adults. This session will explore how cannabis interacts with the body to support emotional well-being and healthy sleep. Topics include the role the endocannabinoid system plays on sleep and mental health, a breakdown of how cannabis can impact issues with these conditions, how to choose products and routes of administration and knowing when to use them for optimal results, as well as safe dosing guidelines.
Part Three: Cannabis for Chronic Pain Relief
This session focuses on one of the most common reasons seniors turn to cannabis: managing chronic pain. We’ll explore how cannabis may offer relief for conditions like arthritis, neuropathy, and inflammation. Topics include the science of pain modulation with respect to cannabis and the endocannabinoid system, how to use a tailored approach when managing pain (ex using cannabis as a tool in combination with other lifestyle behaviours), product selection guidelines, safe dosing guidelines and safety considerations to manage side effects and how to recognize when cannabis may not be a suitable therapy.
HOW TO REGISTER
- Call our Front Desk at 780 483 1209
- Send an email to ch****@*******rs.ca
- Please note: This workshop is not open for reservation yet. Registration will begin in August—stay tuned for details!
EMPOWERING SENIORS
This educational series is designed to empower seniors with evidence-based information, helping them make informed decisions about cannabis use for their health and well-being. Join us for an engaging and informative discussion led by expert holistic cannabis nurses!
KNOW THE PRESENTERS
Kala Sanmartin (RN, BSc. N, CCHCNC)
As the founder of The Cannabis Nurses + Co and Managing Partner at Vital Holistic Care, Kala Sanmartin is a Registered Nurse and Holistic Cannabis Nurse Coach, bringing a wealth of experience in community and integrative care. As a Managing Partner at Vital Holistic Care, Kala empowers clients with compassionate education and evidence-informed guidance to support well-being through holistic and cannabis-based approaches.
Heather Wilkinson (RecT, BSc.Kin, BARST, CSEP-CPT, CYT-200)
Heather Wilkinson is a Recreation Therapist and Managing Partner at Vital Holistic Care, with a strong background in kinesiology and adaptive recreation. A certified holistic cannabis educator and yoga teacher (CYT-200), Heather is passionate about helping individuals improve their quality of life through personalized, whole-person approaches to health and wellness.
