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Best CBD for joint pain: 5 CBD products to relieve pain and inflammation

Top 5 CBD products to ease inflammation and discomfort

Best CBD for joint pain: 5 CBD products to relieve pain and inflammation

If you're one of the more than 53 million individuals dealing with arthritis pain, you may benefit from adding CBD to your pain management plan. CBD is growing popular among Americans seeking to manage moderate to chronic pain, and for many, it's become part of their daily regimen.

While CBD may not be the end-all for your arthritis pain, it can provide some discomfort relief and may even offer additional wellness benefits like reduced stress, relaxation, and improved sleep. If you're curious about this cannabinoid’s pain-relieving properties, check out our top choices for the best CBD for joint pain.

Best CBD Products for Joint Pain

1. Best Overall CBD for Joint Pain: Aspen Green Relief Organic Full Spectrum CBD Gummies

2. Best Topical CBD for Joint Pain: R&R CBD Pain Creams

3. Best Broad Spectrum CBD Oil Products for Joint Pain: Canna River CBD Pain Gummies

4. Most Potent CBD for Chronic Inflammation: CBDfx Original Mixed Berry CBD Gummies

5. Best Fast-Acting CBD for Arthritis Symptoms: Soul Rapid Relief Cream

Potential Benefits of CBD

CBD is growing in the wellness industry as a natural aid for various ailments, such as chronic pain relief and stress. While research is still evolving on the short- and long-term effects of CBD use, many promising findings indicate CBD could be an excellent solution for pain relief, improved mood, better sleep, and reduced stress.

  • Pain relief: The potential of CBD as a pain reliever is one of the more common reasons people use CBD. Many researchers have explored CBD as an option for chronic pain relief, especially as an alternative to opioids. Pure CBD is non-intoxicating, making it a much safer chronic pain relief option than opioids, which can be highly addictive.
  • Improved mood: One potential benefit of CBD is easing anxiety and mental tension. Many people enjoy CBD for its calming effects, which help them unwind and relax after a long day. Some research is even looking at ways to use CBD as a treatment for mood disorders. Although it's not yet proven to help mood disorders, preclinical and clinical evidence suggests it could provide relief for conditions like bipolar disorder or depression.
  • Reduced stress: Because CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which is a system in the body that helps regulate stress, research indicates that CBD is effective in relieving stress.
  • Better sleep: Many people who use CBD find it helps them fall asleep. Part of this is because CBD may help lower stress and reduce pain, which could inhibit people from falling asleep. Initial research also suggests that CBD may help relieve insomnia, leading to better sleep.

Best CBD Products for Joint Pain

1. Best Overall CBD for Joint Pain: Aspen Green Relief Organic Full Spectrum CBD Gummies


What we love

The Aspen Green Relief gummies are a physician-formulated blend of full-spectrum CBD oil and THC meant to alleviate pain while promoting recovery. These certified USDA organic gummies are vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO. Each flavorful piece contains 50mg CBD and 2.5mg hemp-derived THC, plus various other phytocannabinoids like CBG and CBC for the ultimate entourage effect.

What customers love

Customers rave about the Aspen Green Relief gummies, mentioning they are some of the most effective full-spectrum CBD gummies they've tried. People mention that with regular use, these gummies cut discomfort and help individuals get a restful night's sleep. The pain-relieving properties of these gummies have worked on knee, elbow, and neuropathic pain. This full-spectrum CBD extract works wonders for those who use it in conjunction with other remedies.

About Aspen Green

Aspen Green promises customers pure CBD options for optimal well-being. The company's pillars are quality, integrity, and transparency, which it implements at every step of its process, from sourcing to selling the final product. All products from Aspen Green come from organically farmed hemp, are physician formulated, and tested by third parties for potency and safety.

Pros:

  • Subscription discounts available
  • Vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO
  • Certified USDA organic
  • Physician formulated

Cons:

  • Only comes in one flavor

Specs:

  • CBD type: Full-Spectrum CBD
  • Size: 30-count container
  • Strength: 50mg CBD and 2.5mg THC per gummy
  • Flavor(s): Cherry

Learn more about Aspen Green Relief Organic Full Spectrum CBD Gummies today


2. Best Topical CBD for Joint Pain: R&R CBD Pain Creams


What we love

Massage your stubborn joint pain with doctor formulated R&R CBD pain cream. This extra-strength, full-spectrum CBD topical cream blends up to 5000mg of cannabinoids like CBD, THC, CBG, and CBN to help relieve acute to chronic pain. Additional active ingredients in their proprietary formula include jojoba oil and MSM to reduce inflammation, and arnica montana to promote recovery.

What customers love

Customers love R&R CBD products, and many mention that the company makes some of the most effective products they've tried. Customers also note that they are long-time users and have had positive experiences with R&R's customer relations team.

About R&R

R&R was among the first CBD brands to earn the USDA Organic Certification in 2019. A veteran and employee-owned company, R&R infuses all its products with a proprietary organic extract from local farming partners to produce a quality product. R&R also operates an FDA-registered facility and is registered with the FDA and Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE).

Pros:

  • Subscription discounts available
  • Both full and broad spectrum available (with or without THC)
  • Comes from certified organic-grown hemp
  • 60-day money-back guarantee

Cons:

  • Only comes in one size

Specs:

  • CBD type: Full-spectrum CBD
  • Size: 2.5fl oz container
  • Strength: 1000mg, 2500mg, and 5000mg CBD per container
  • Flavor(s): N/A

Learn more about R&R CBD Pain Creams today


3. Best Broad Spectrum CBD Oil Products for Joint Pain: Canna River CBD Pain Gummies


What we love

The Canna River Pain Gummies are perfect if you're looking for a flavorful CBD option that tastes like candy. Choose from four delicious options, all naturally flavored and colored. These gummies provide the ultimate pain relief with 50mg of CBD and CBG to help your body and mind feel at ease.

What customers love

Aside from tasting great, customers say the Canna River Pain Gummies are great for pain relief and inducing sleep. Many people use these gummies to help with arthritis pain and muscle soreness.

About Canna River

The Canna River's mission is to provide customers with quality CBD products at affordable prices. All products come from non-GMO hemp sourced from Oregon. The company also provides free carbon-neutral shipping for a more sustainable product. In addition to gummies, Canna River also sells CBD tinctures, topicals, and vapes.

Pros:

  • Free of gluten and alcohol
  • Plant-based
  • Made with natural flavors and colors
  • Cruelty-free

Cons:

  • Only comes in one potency
  • No subscription pricing to help save on recurring orders

Specs:

  • CBD type: Broad-Spectrum CBD
  • Size: 30-count container
  • Strength: 50mg CBD and 50mg CBG per gummy
  • Flavor(s): Passion Orange Guava, Pink Watermelon, Red Berry, Strawberry Mango

Learn more about Canna River Pain Gummies today


4. Most Potent CBD for Chronic Inflammation: CBDfx Original Mixed Berry CBD Gummies


What we love

Sometimes when you have a pain flair-up, it might take an extra-strength product like CBDfx CBD gummies to do the trick. These broad-spectrum CBD gummies contain up to 200mg of CBD per serving. They're made with all-natural ingredients and organic hemp, so you can feel confident you're only putting quality ingredients into your body.

What customers love

CBDfx CBD gummies have nearly 2000 reviews about flavor and quality. Customers say they've helped with pain relief, elevated mood, and better sleep. Customers also mentioned how easy it is to order and how quick shipping is.

About CBDfx

CBDfx started in 2014 with a mission to improve the quality of CBD products in the industry. The company uses a single-pass CO2 extraction method on all products to produce an ultra-premium CBD oil made from USA-grown hemp plants, guaranteeing a safe experience with maximum benefits. Besides gummies, CBDfx sells CBD oils, capsules, topicals, vapes, and pet products. The certificate of analysis on any of their CBD oil products is easy to find, a crucial point for safety.

Pros:

  • Subscription discounts available
  • Vegan and gluten-free
  • Made with all-natural ingredients and organic hemp
  • Cruelty-free

Cons:

  • Only comes in one flavor and size

Specs:

  • CBD type: Broad-Spectrum CBD
  • Size: 60-count container
  • Strength: 25mg, 50mg, or 100mg of CBD per gummy
  • Flavor(s): Mixed Berry

Learn more about CBDfx Original Mixed Berry CBD Gummies today


5. Best Fast-Acting CBD for Arthritis Symptoms: Soul Rapid Relief Cream


What we love

When the joint pain hits, you need a fast-acting CBD topical like Soul Rapid Relief Cream. This soothing cream contains 1500mg CBD and menthol to help ease even the most stubborn pain. It also contains organic coconut oil to help moisturize the skin while relieving discomfort. This topical comes from organically farmed hemp and contains no THC.

What customers love

Customers rave that the Soul Rapid Relief Cream is fast-acting and helps soothe sore muscles and joints. Many users mention this cream is a staple of their workout recovery and something people use to assist with arthritis pain.

About Soul

Soul began with two siblings who wanted to eliminate the guesswork associated with good health and natural wellness. They designed their CBD products to be effective, great-tasting, and doctor-formulated. Soul’s products are made with clean ingredients and triple-tested for quality assurance.

Pros:

  • Subscription discounts available
  • Organically farmed
  • Made with USA-grown hemp
  • Fast-acting

Cons:

  • Only comes in one size and strength

Specs:

  • CBD type: Broad-Spectrum CBD
  • Size: 3.4fl oz container
  • Strength: 1500mg CBD per container
  • Flavor(s): N/A

Learn more about Soul Rapid Relief Cream today

What Is CBD and How Does It Provide Join Pain Relief

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the many active compounds in cannabis from hemp plants. It's closely related to the compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), also found in cannabis, but without producing a “high.”

When CBD is extracted from hemp, it comes with various other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavoids. All elements combine to provide an entourage effect, essentially the ultimate calmness and relaxation, but not a high.

CBD interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system. This bodily system plays an essential role in helping to regulate many functions throughout the body, including pain. Many CBD products also include other natural substances known for their anti-inflammatory properties to act as a potential pain management solution. If you can’t just rely on CBD oil to relieve pain, consider working it into your routine for overall wellness.

How To Find The Best CBD Products for Your Pain Symptoms

It's easy to get overwhelmed by the endless CBD options on the market. Not all CBD products are made the same, and it's important to find the right CBD option to manage your pain symptoms. You'll want to consider the CBD type, potency, intended benefit, form, scent, flavor, and affordability.

CBD Type

There are three types of CBD: broad-spectrum, full-spectrum, and CBD isolate. Broad-spectrum and full-spectrum CBD contain additional cannabinoids aside from CBD that work together to provide a more profound effect. CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD, containing no other cannabinoids.

Most CBD products for pain management come from a broad-spectrum or full-spectrum CBD oil. Both will provide similar results, the only difference being that full-spectrum contains small levels of THC.

Potency

Potency refers to the strength of the CBD product. Understanding the potency of a product is essential because too mild of a concentration of CBD may not deliver your desired results while a too-strong product can lead to adverse side effects.

In general, if you've never taken CBD before, it's best to start with a lower potency product (around 25 or 30mg CBD per serving). If you're a CBD veteran or low-potency products aren’t providing you with the desired results, try an extra-strength CBD product. In many cases, people trying to relieve arthritis pain or chronic pain tend to find better results with higher-potency CBD options.

Intended Benefit

CBD has many potential benefits, all of which you can achieve simultaneously. However, some CBD products include additional active ingredients to provide further relief for a specific ailment, such as pain relief.

When shopping for CBD to provide pain relief, you may notice natural anti-inflammatory ingredients like turmeric, white willow, or Boswellia. These ingredients work alongside CBD to help reduce pain and inflammation of the joints and muscles.

CBD Form

CBD comes in different forms. The most common forms include CBD oil or tincture, gummies, capsules, and topicals. Most forms of CBD will provide similar results, and choosing a form is more about your preference for convenience and serving control.

While any CBD form can help with pain relief, many people find success with topical CBD products. When using a topical, you rub the CBD directly onto the affected area. Not only does the skin absorb CBD for fast-acting relief, but many topicals have additional active ingredients to help with other things that may be causing pain, such as inflammation.

Scents and Flavors

Oral CBD products, like CBD oils and gummies, tend to come in various flavors. Hemp has an earthy taste that you either like or don't. People who like the natural taste of hemp may go for an unflavored product or try something with a natural flavor. People who don't like hemp can look for artificial flavors or sugars that can help mask the taste.

Topical products may have a naturally or artificially enhanced scent, making them more pleasant to apply. Some products may also contain menthol, which can help with pain relief but also has a strong scent.

Affordability

CBD is available at a range of prices to fit any budget. Like any dietary supplement, expensive doesn't necessarily mean better. There are plenty of affordable options that provide incredible results.

If you are looking for CBD on a budget, consider brands that offer subscriptions that help you save on recurring orders. Subscribers often receive free or discounted shipping. You can also look for companies with a 30- or 60-day money-back guarantee if you try a product that doesn't work.

Types of CBD

When shopping for CBD products, brands will indicate whether the product is broad-spectrum, full-spectrum, or isolate CBD. This indication is the type of CBD. All types of CBD provide similar results, but small differences between the three are important to understand when choosing CBD products.

Full-Spectrum CBD

A full-spectrum CBD product contains all the natural cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids from the cannabis plant, including small levels of THC. All these compounds interact to create the entourage effect, which leads to a greater sense of calmness, relaxation, and pain relief.

Broad-Spectrum CBD

Broad-spectrum CBD is similar to full-spectrum, containing many of the natural cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids from the cannabis plant. However, broad-spectrum products undergo an extra process to remove any THC. It will still provide an entourage effect and benefit, although some people find the intensity of the effects to be lower than full-spectrum CBD.

CBD Isolate

CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD. Unlike broad and full-spectrum products, it contains no other cannabinoids, terpenes, or flavonoids. CBD isolate will be the mildest of the CBD types, but it can still provide similar benefits.

Types of CBD Products

CBD type refers to how you take CBD, whether that's a great-tasting edible, beverage, oil, or topical. Most CBD types provide similar results, so it's about finding something that works for you and your pain management regimen.

CBD Tincture

CBD tincture, also called CBD oil, is one of the most common types of CBD products. One of the plus sides to CBD oil is that you have more control over the dose than you would with a capsule or gummy. You can find CBD oil to help with pain relief, sleep, or stress. You can also find broad-spectrum and full-spectrum CBD oil.

CBD oil is easy to take. You can put it directly into your mouth or mix into a favorite beverage or smoothie. They come in tons of flavors, potency, and sizes, making them one of the more diverse CBD options.

CBD Gummies

If you're looking for a convenient CBD option that you can take on the go, you might like a CBD gummy. People tend to gravitate toward gummies because each piece contains a premeasured amount of CBD, so you don't have to worry about measuring the correct dose with each use. People also like gummies because they're discreet, as they look and taste like candy.

CBD Topicals

A CBD topical is a lotion or cream infused with CBD oil that you rub onto your skin. Topicals are primarily used for pain management, relieving discomfort from the area where you apply them. Many CBD topicals include menthol and botanicals to help with inflammation, making them a great option for joint or arthritis pain.

CBD Drinks

CBD drinks are growing in popularity as an alcohol alternative. They're not the best choice for pain management, but they provide a calming effect that may help relieve stress, tension, or discomfort. CBD drinks come in tons of options, such as infused sodas, seltzers, teas, and carbonated waters.

CBD Capsules

CBD capsules are perfect if you like the convenience of gummies but aren't a fan of the flavors or candy-like consistency. Like CBD gummies, capsules contain a premeasured amount of CBD per capsule, making them easy to consume or take on the go as part of your pain management plan. You can find capsules in broad and full-spectrum options like CBD oils and gummies.

Potential Side Effects of CBD

CBD is a dietary supplement. And with any supplement, there are potential side effects to using CBD, including:

  • Changes to alertness
  • Drowsiness
  • Diarrhea
  • Decreased appetite
  • Mood changes
  • Dry mouth

Side effects are more likely to occur if youconsume high amounts of CBD in one sitting or use higher-potency products. Most side effects will disappear after a few hours once the CBD wears off.

It's important to know that CBD may interact poorly with alcohol and prescription medications. If you're taking prescription medications, it's best to consult with a doctor before using CBD to ensure it's safe.

FAQs

Is CBD safe?

CBD is relatively safe when taken responsibly. Always follow CBD instructions when using a CBD product, and stop use if you experience any adverse side effects.

Is CBD legal?

CBD is federally legal thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill that removed hemp and hemp-derived products from the Controlled Substance Act. However, some states may have regulations on purchasing, selling, and using CBD, so it's always important to understand local laws before using CBD.

How much CBD should I take for joint pain relief?

The amount of CBD you take for joint relief will depend on your CBD tolerance and the type of CBD you use. If you've never taken CBD, start with the lowest recommended serving advised by the CBD product you're using. Depending on the product, the starting dose can range from 15 to 30mg of CBD. If you're not feeling the desired effects, slowly increase your consumption or look for a higher-potency product.

Will CBD make me high?

No, CBD is not a psychoactive compound and will not cause a high. Even full-spectrum products, which contain THC, don't cause a high because the amount of THC is so low; it won't give you the psychoactive effect. However, some products do have added THC, which may lead to a high. It's always important to read labels and ingredients to ensure you know what you're taking. You can also look at a product certificate of analysis, which breaks down what's in each product.

Can I take too much CBD?

While not advised, research indicates that the average person can tolerate up to 1,500mg of CBD per day. However, taking that much CBD is likely to lead to unwanted side effects such as dry mouth, changes in alertness, diarrhea, and irritability.

How fast does CBD work for joint pain relief?

CBD works at different speeds depending on the person and the product. Most oral CBD products, like oils or capsules, can start working in as little as 15 minutes or as long as 3 hours. Topical CBD can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours.

Can CBD help with rheumatoid arthritis pain?

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that affects the joints, causing severe pain, swelling, and stiffness. CBD is not medical cannabis and is not a treatment or cure for rheumatoid arthritis; it may be beneficial within a larger pain management plan to reduce symptoms such as chronic pain. If you have rheumatoid arthritis, it's always best to consult with a doctor before using CBD, especially if you're taking prescription medications for your rheumatoid arthritis.

Can I take CBD with other pain medications?

Studies show that CBD does negatively interact with some prescription medications, such as anti-epileptics, antidepressants, and opioids. If you are taking prescription medication, talk to your doctor before starting a CBD regimen.

Will CBD show on a drug test?

CBD will most likely not show on a drug test. However, if you're using a full-spectrum CBD oil with added THC, regular use of the product may lead to a positive drug test.

Find The Best CBD Oil Product For Your Pain Relief!

You don't have to suffer from joint pain, and CBD may be the solution you need to manage your arthritis pain as part of an overall pain management plan. There are plenty of CBD oils, gummies, and topicals, with additional active ingredients to soothe discomfort. If a product isn't providing you with the pain relief you deserve, don't be afraid to try high-potency products or different brands until you discover the best CBD for your joint pain.

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True


Life can be bleak, so we’re going to be celebrating the small joys while we can—whether that’s a sweet snack that boosts your mood (courtesy of our friends at All In), or a spontaneous moment between strangers that's so joyful it restores your faith in the algorithm (even if only for a second). These momentary mood boosters are everywhere you look—you just have to be able to find them underneath all the noise. And that’s where we come in.

Consider this weekly web series your cheat sheet to the best of the Internet—not just random memes to make you laugh, but examples of people truly finding something extraordinary in the mundane. Each Friday we'll be delivering five pieces of media that allow you to stop for a second, take a breath, and feel just a little bit brighter among the daily stress. (Think of us as your chronically online bestie who knows exactly how to make you smile, exactly when you need it the most.)

Ready to smile? Here we go.

1. The best travel buddy surprise 

 
 @tarareynolds03 

Surprising Grandson with going on vacation with him.

 ♬ original sound - Tara Leanne Reynolds 
 
  This sweet grandson thought he was just heading out on vacation—until he spotted a very familiar face at the airport. The moment he sees Grandma standing there, his jaw literally drops. He sets his backpack down and then runs straight into her arms for the biggest hug. "Oh my God! You're coming with us to Jamaica, right?!" he asks her, already smiling from ear to ear. It's the kind of unscripted joy that makes you want to call your own grandma to say hi—and other TikTokers are having all the feels in the comments section: "This brought me to tears," says user KE. "I would kill to go on another vacation with my grandma again. She passed in February. Take so many pictures!"

2. Saying 'thank you' to a very special teacher 

Last week, we shared a question on Upworthy’s Instagram that sparked an outpouring of heartfelt responses:
 “If you could say thank you to one person right now, who would it be, and why?”

For Kate Delisle, a teacher in North Andover, Massachusetts, the answer came instantly: her longtime colleague and teaching assistant, Jeanne Donovan.

“Jeanne has been by my side for seventeen years,” Kate shared. “Next year, we’ll have to split our program — and we won’t be working together anymore.” In her message, Kate described Jeanne as more than just a coworker. She’s supportive, empathetic, and “my right arm — someone who lights up every room she enters. I’m privileged to know her and consider her family.”

To celebrate that incredible bond, our friends at All In recently paid a surprise visit to Kate and Jeanne at their school — letting Jeanne know just how deeply appreciated she is by her colleagues and students alike. And get this: Jeanne is *so* beloved that Kate's parents, kids, sister, and husband all came to the surprise to honor her alongside everyone else. A true tear-jerker and a must-watch.

3. The proudest big brother

 
 @caylaleighbrown This is the original video, He also said it looks like Mike Wazowski after we got done crying LOL #fyp #infertility #infertilityjourney #twins #twinpregnancy #ultrasound #pregnancyafterinfertility #pregnancyannouncement #twinannouncement #twinsies #twinmom ♬ original sound - Cayla Brown ✨ WDW 
 
 

Grab your tissues for this one. After eight long years of hoping for another baby, TikTok user Cayla Lee Brown surprises her stepson Caleb with a sonogram photo—and his reaction is nothing short of beautiful. When Caleb realizes not only that he's going to be a big brother but that twin siblings are on the way, his eyes well up and he whispers "We're having twins?!" Cue the heart explosion. In a follow-up video, Cayla shares something that makes this news extra special: Caleb isn't actually her biological child, and although she considers Caleb her son she wasn't sure she'd be able to have biological children at all. "[Caleb] was my gift and I was blessed with two more," she explains. This video is the best reminder that love makes a family, and sometimes the best surprises take a little time.

4. Overly excited dogs 

 
 @puppylovestoplay6 Part23: When they hear a word they like#dog#funny#funnyanimals#funnypets#animals #dogsofttiktok #pet #foryou #longervideos#foryou#fyp #funnyvideo ♬ original sound - Puppylovestoplay 
 
 

This feel-good compilation is basically a highlight reel of dogs at their happiest: realizing they’re about to go on a walk. From excited tail wags to full-body zoomies, every pup in this video gives a masterclass in unfiltered enthusiasm. One especially clever owner even uses sign language to say “walk,” just to see if their dog picks up on it—and spoiler: the reaction is still pure chaos (the joyful kind). These dogs just know, and they are ready (read: unhinged.) Truly a reminder that the simplest things—in this case, some fresh air and a little adventure—are what spark the most joy.

5.Bunny ASMR

 
 @megancottone The way she munched down the carrot ribbon #bunnies ♬ Married Life (From "Up") - Gina Luciani 
 
 

If you've had a stressful day, allow this floofy little friend to press the reset button on your brain. TikTok creator @megancottone gives us a full 60 seconds of bunny bliss: one ridiculously adorable rabbit, some deliciously crunchy snacks, and the kind of soft background music that makes your heart rate drop in the best way. The gentle munching noises? Therapeutic. The fuzzy face and floppy ears? Instant joy. It’s like nature’s version of white noise—but cuter. Honestly, someone get this bunny a wellness podcast deal.

For even more “extra”-ordinary moments, come find us on social media (@upworthy) or on upworthy.com!

For scrumptious snacks that add an extra boost of joy to your day, be sure to check out All In. 

Screenshots via @castrowas95/Twitter

A seal escaping a killer whale attack.

In the Pacific Northwest, orca sightings are a fairly common occurrence. Still, tourists and locals alike marvel when a pod of "sea pandas" swims by, whipping out their phones to capture some of nature's most beautiful and intelligent creatures in their natural habitat. While orcas aren't a threat to humans, there's a reason they're called "killer whales." To their prey, which includes just about everything that swims except humans, they are terrifying apex predators who hunt in packs and will even coordinate to attack whales several times their own size.

So if you're a human alone on a little platform boat, and a sea lion that a group of orcas was eyeing for lunch jumps onto your boat, you might feel a little wary. Especially when those orcas don't just swim on by, but surround you head-on.

Watch exactly that scenario play out (language warning, if you've got wee ones you don't want f-bombed):


 

Ummm, yeah. An orca sighting is one thing, but this is a whole other story. Orcas have been known to knock large prey off of icebergs, so the whole "orcas don't hurt humans" thing doesn't feel super reassuring in this scenario.

The footage came from TikTok user @nutabull, whose now-deleted account stated she was from Vancouver Island.

The viral video sparked a debate about whether the sea lion should be kicked off the boat or not. The woman kept telling the sea lion it "had to go" with a frank "Sorry, buddy, that's life," message, though she never actively tried to push it off. Many commenters joked about yeeting the sea lion off the boat to avoid a potentially disastrous encounter with the orcas. Others were on #teamsealion, saying they wouldn't have the heart to boot the poor thing.

It's a big philosophical question. The philosophical underpinnings of the belief that humans should stay out of the matters of wild animals, so as not to interrupt the delicate balance of nature, is called "relational non-interventionism." The philosophy holds that we have no general obligation to alleviate animal suffering, and that we typically do not have special obligations to ease the suffering of wild animals. Therefore, we generally do not have a duty to intervene in nature to ease the suffering of wild animals. That's one thing to believe, but who wants to see animals suffer?


The reality is orcas eat sea lions—the circle of life and whatnot. Most of us just don't find ourselves in the middle of that circle, having to figure out whether the apex predators surrounding our boat are going to patiently wait for their lunch to come back or take it upon themselves to bump it back into the water.

Thankfully for the woman, the sea lion seemed to decide on its own that its options were limited and dove back in to take its chances with the orcas. But phew, that encounter would be harrowing for just about anyone.

Best of luck, sea lion. Hope you're an exceptional swimmer.

This article originally appeared four years ago.

@misswinans_teach/TikTok

Not all heroes wear capes. Some wear a bonnet and PJs.

While we often think of test day as purely a stressful day for students, teachers definitely feel the pressure too. Just take middle school teacher Sarah Ashley Winans’ word for it.

Winans recently went viral on TikTok after sharing a video of herself entering the school she works at in the middle of the night, donning her pajamas and a sleeping bonnet. No, this wasn’t a bizarre episode of sleepwalking—Winans woke up from her pre-test day slumber and realized she had forgotten to plug in her computer charging cart that would be vital for students to take the exam.

Luckily, the crisis was somewhat easily averted. In the clip we see her hop out of her car, unlock the building, walk down the hall and into her classroom, and in two seconds flat she comes out flashing an “all is well” peace sign to the security camera. Phew.



“Test anxiety isn’t just for kids,” her caption read.

In an interview with Today, Winans shared how this test anxiety comes from a place of wanting all her students to feel at ease. "I don't really sleep the week of testing, because I want them to be OK, and I want them to feel confident, not to be nervous and worried. I know testing can really put a lot of pressure on people."

 teachers, teacher of tiktok, test day, test anxiety, state testing, prepping for test, funny teachers, state exam, chromebook Sarah Ashley Winans.Courtesy of Sarah Ashley Winans

Down in the comments, people really felt for Winans’ plight.

"I just know you were stress texting your principal,” one person wrote. Another echoed, "Yall know she was (on the phone) with someone bc she was scared to death."

Indeed, Winans did call her administrator before making her adventure to the school (luckily only a five minute drive away), and that was actually how she got this hilarious footage. "She let me look at it, and then I said, 'I have to record it,'" Winans told the outlet

Viewers who were not feeling secondhand anxiety just chimed in with pure appreciation.

“This is so Janine coded,” one person wrote, referencing Quinta Brunson's character in Abbott Elementary.

 teachers, tests, testing, abbott elementary, gif Janine from Abbott Elementary. media.giphy.com  

“Not all heroes wear capes, they’re in bonnets plugging in the chromebook cart at 10pm,” quipped another.

Still another said, “Just so you know, you’re an amazing teacher because WHO would go late at night when you’re already in your jammies? You’re awesome.”

Following the huge response to her video, Winans told Today, that she hopes it humanizes teachers a bit and reminds folks they aren’t perfect, but still do everything they can to provide for their students.

"This is just something we do. Teachers, you make mistakes, and you forget to do things and, I mean, you just do what you have to do to make sure your kids are successful. And I was just doing my job."

So, in addition to providing education, therapy, and mentorship, teachers also have to do a little recovery missions from time to time. That’s just reason #509 that they deserve more.

This article originally appeared in May.

A couple talking over coffee.

Many people find making small talk to be an excruciating experience. They think it’s boring to talk with a stranger about the weather, sports, or weekend plans. They may also feel like they don’t have anything to contribute to the conversation, or they don’t understand the point of having one in the first place.

However, those who excel at making small talk have a tremendous advantage in their professional and romantic relationships, as well as in forming new friendships. Most importantly, small talk is a window to transition into medium talk or, eventually, deep, meaningful conversations. The problem is that many people get stuck in small talk, and things stall before progressing to something beneficial.

 conversation, small talk, conversation tips, communications tips, medium talk, reminder A man and woman chatting.via Canva/Photos

How to get better at small talk

The great thing is that, like anything, making small talk is a skill that we can all improve by learning some simple conversation techniques. One technique that is great for keeping a conversation going, like hitting a ball back and forth past a net in tennis, is a simple statement: It reminds me of…”

A redditor named IsaihLikesToConnect shared some great examples of how the phrase can be used to turn a mundane topic, such as the weather, into something much more fun.

Them: "It's been really rainy, huh?"

You:

Option 1 (Personal Story): "Yeah, it reminds me of a time I went on a run in the rain and nearly got hit by a car."

Option 2 (Music / Pop Culture): "It reminds me of every Adele song. When I'm driving, I feel like I'm in a music video."

Option 3 (Family): "It reminds me of my dad, he used to love playing with us in the rain as kids."

Option 4 (Thing you watched / World News): "It reminds me of this documentary I saw where they're trying to make it rain in the Sahara Desert.”

Option 5 (Place you lived): “It reminds me of when I lived in Australia, it barely ever rained there. I actually love this weather.”


 conversation, small talk, conversation tips, communications tips, medium talk, reminder Coworkers having a conversation.via Canva/Photos

You see in this example that using “It reminds me of…” opened up the conversation to five potential new and more exciting topics. The “You” in the story could have responded with, “Yeah, it sure is rainy,” and the conversation would have ended right there. But instead, branching off the topic of rain into something a bit deeper took the conversation to the next level. You get extra points if you can take the “reminds me of” into a topic that you assume the other person will be interested in.

 conversation, small talk, conversation tips, communications tips, medium talk, reminder Coworkers having a conversation.via Canva/Photos

What’s a polite way to change the topic in a conversation?

Using “this reminds me of…” is also a polite way to move the topics in another direction, especially when it's a topic that you don’t want to discuss or one that makes you feel a bit uncomfortable. Or, if it’s a situation where the other person is monologing on one topic for a very long time, this makes it easy to transition away from their diatribe.

Ultimately, the phrase is an excellent way for you to save the person you’re talking to from being stuck in the small talk rut as well. It shows you understand that when someone brings up the weather, they are merely getting things started with something both of you have in common. They probably don’t want to talk about the weather for 30 minutes, unless they are a meteorologist. “It reminds me of…” is an invitation to go a bit deeper and shows the other person that you’d like to learn more about them.

This article originally appeared in April.

A stressed mother and her baby boomer parents.

There is a strange phenomenon that occurred in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, when Gen Xers and older millennials were raised: their baby boomer parents were not around very much. This generation of children was often taken care of by daycares or attended school with keys strung around their necks, and when they came home, they were told not to answer the door until a parent arrived. They were the children raised during both the divorce epidemic and the time when, for many families, both parents had to work.

However, the least parented generation in American history had great relationships with their grandparents, who loved to spend time with them and take on babysitting duties. But now that the kids raised in the ‘70s, ‘80s, and '90s have children, they’re noticing something interesting: the parents who weren’t around to raise them aren’t that into being grandparents either.

There is a lot of talk about the differences between baby boomers as grandparents and their parents from the Silent Generation. Some believe it’s because baby boomers have more money than their parents, who were raised at a time when grandparents played a more significant role in child-rearing. After all, they didn't expect to travel or have busy social lives.

 baby boomers, parenting, grandparents, baby boomer grandparents, me generation A baby boomer couple.via Canva/Photos

This generation trend begs the question: Why do boomer parents beg their kids to have children, but shy away when it comes to spending time with them? An upset mother shared about the double standard on Reddit.

“My mother, a devout Christian, always preached the importance of getting married and having children. Now that I’ve done both (and happily so) and moved to be closer to her, she has very little interest in hanging out with us and never, ever offers to watch her grandkids,” she wrote. “I’ve been reading up on this, and it seems that it’s not uncommon. After moving across the country during COVID, I had dreams of my mom wanting to be an active part of our lives. The sad truth of it is, is that I see her maybe once more a year than when I lived across the country…and it’s not for lack of trying on my part.”

The post resonated with many mothers her age who had experienced the same problem. Their boomer parents begged them to have children, but they won’t lift a finger to see them.

“Yup, completely describes my boomer parents. They begged and begged for us to relocate back to my home city. Still, as we began searching for new job opportunities/places to live, we naturally discussed the possibility of them spending some alone time with the grandkids from time to time,” another mom wrote. “That was a full stop for them. Both my parents insisted they’d retired from child watching duties and would not ever be utilized as ‘babysitters.’ The only acceptable option for them was for us to be present the entirety of the time their grandkids were interacting with them.”

 baby boomers, parenting, grandparents, baby boomer grandparents, me generation, grandma, gardening A grandma in the garden. via Canva/Photos

“I think you hit the nail on the head. A lot of the boomers want to be 'seen' as 'good grandparents' while not doing a damn thing,” another mom added.

Another mom noted that their grandparents were amazing, but their parents are the exact opposite. “What’s crazy is I spent TONS of time with my grandparents as a child. I’d routinely be dropped off on the weekends and weeknights,” the mother wrote. “My grandparents picked me up from school regularly. It’s not like my grandparents were doing the same behavior, and therefore it’s a learned generational thing.”

 baby boomers, parenting, grandparents, baby boomer grandparents, me generation,  Baby boomers throwing up a peace sign. via Canva/Photos

One mother in the thread had some sympathy for baby boomers who felt a lot of pressure to have children, regardless of whether they wanted them or not. She believes that now they’re getting their time back. “It’s because even though Boomers had the physical choice to become parents, they didn’t have the cultural/social choice. Whenever I hear this story, I figure the grandparents didn’t really want children. It also explains why we were at our grandparents so often: anything they could do to not be around us, they took it up,” she wrote.

It’s wrong to paint an entire generation with the same brush, and there are, no doubt, plenty of wonderful baby boomer grandparents out there. However, it’s not surprising that a group of people once called the “Me Generation” is more reluctant to spend time with their families than those who came before them. One wonders if their feelings toward family will change when they become the ones who need to be cared for?

This article originally appeared in May.

A woman looks very embarrassed.

Maggie Perkins, 32, made headlines in 2022 when she quit the teaching profession to work at Costco, and showed no interest in looking back. "The conditions were worsening rapidly, and I realized they weren't getting better, and nobody seemed alarmed enough to do anything. I was 29 when I decided to leave," she told People, noting she was making $47,000 at the time.

"The more I learned about Costco and the different roles at the company, the happier I was at the idea of working there, whether at the warehouse or corporate, for the rest of my career," she added. "I feel like there was a great potential reward for pursuing it." Now, three years later, she trains fellow employees and has no regrets about leaving her former career.

Now that Perkins has been out of the classroom for a few years, she can say the things she couldn't when she was working as an educator. So, she created a video where she revealed four big things that she had to keep to herself, and all of them are centered around kids’ hygiene. "I used to be a teacher, and I couldn't have said any of these things to your kid or to you while I was a teacher,” she opens her video.

@itsmaggieperkins

Things I couldn’t say while I was a teacher: 1. Cut your kids nails 2. Get them deodorant before they start really stinking 3. Start wearing a bra before it’s really noticeable 4. Wash those hoodies. #teachersoftiktok #formerteacher #teacherlife #teachertok #middleschoolteacher

What do teachers want to tell their students and parents but can’t?

1. Cut your child’s nails

“If your kid's nails are long and dirty, other kids are noticing, and also it is gross. Kids literally get impetigo from their own fingernails,” she said.

2. Start using deodorant before they smell

“Please start putting deodorant on your kids before you notice that they need it,” she said. “Fifth grade, guys, fifth grade, deodorant.”

3. Your child needs to start wearing a bra sooner than you think 

“It doesn’t have to be like a real bra. This is just like a soft, athleisure-type situation,” she said. “No one wants to be made fun of because it looks like they should be wearing a bra and they're not.”

4. Wash that sweatshirt and hoodie often

“Once those cuffs start to be like literally brown and ratty, wash the jacket. I am watching them wipe their snot on the jacket sleeve day after day after day,” she said. “They're walking around in a dirty snot rag.”

 girl hoodie, young girl sweatshirt, girl in orange, young sassy girl, hand signals  A young girl posing in an orange sweatshirt.via Canva/Photos

Perkins’ advice is for the child’s health, but also to save them from embarrassment. “There's no worse feeling than being a sixth grader who has this like acute sense of being different than others and criticized,” she said. “Your child is probably more aware of it than you are, and they're just not talking to you about it, because kids don't talk to their parents that much.”

The post was popular on TikTok, garnering over 2.4 million views, and it resonated with Perkins’ followers, who shared how hygiene issues had caused them a lot of embarrassment when they were young. "Parents, please also teach your kids to be compassionate because not all kids come from a loving home. Be the love they don’t receive and don’t make fun of the kids who may smell or are not wearing a bra,” one viewer wrote. "I would have loved for a teacher to tell this to my mom. I went to middle school without a bra, and I was so embarrassed to change in the locker rooms," another added.

 boy at lunch, school lunch, embarassed student, salad, middle-school boy, middle school girls A child pre-teen serving himself lunch. via Canva/Photos

Ultimately, Perkins’ tips are all about helping parents anticipate and address any potential hygiene or attire issues their child may encounter before they become a problem, whether that’s causing illness or embarrassment. The former teacher’s tips are a great reminder that a little extra care at home can make things a lot easier for kids on the playground and in the classroom.

This article originally appeared in May.