10 tips for having a positive first cannabis experience
A first cannabis experience can be make or break for inexperienced users.
Having a plan for a positive first cannabis experience is an important part of trying cannabis for the first time.
Preparation involves responsible use and being mindful of your body and surroundings, as well as gaining as much information as possible from the resources available to you.
Even experienced cannabis users can benefit from these tips when trying new products or consumption methods.
Here are some tips to help you navigate your first cannabis experience:
Start Low
Begin your cannabis journey with a small dose. This approach helps you gauge how your body reacts to the effects and prevents overwhelming sensations. You can always consume more if you feel comfortable, but you can’t easily undo an excessive dose.
Choose a Comfortable Setting
Your surroundings play a significant role in how you experience cannabis. Opt for a comfortable and familiar setting where you feel safe and at ease. This minimizes the potential for anxiety and allows you to fully enjoy the experience.
Positive Mindset
Your mindset greatly influences how cannabis affects you. Engage with cannabis when you’re in a positive and relaxed state of mind. Remember that it can amplify your emotions, so starting with a positive mood can lead to a more enjoyable experience.
Trusted Company
Having a friend you trust by your side can provide emotional support and reassurance. If you’re new to cannabis, their experience can offer guidance if you have questions or concerns. Their presence can also make the experience more enjoyable and less isolating.
Stay Relaxed
If you feel anxious or overwhelmed, focus on slow and controlled breathing. Inhale deeply and exhale slowly. This technique can help you manage any feelings of unease and maintain a calmer state of mind.
Know Your Limits
Pay close attention to your body’s responses. If you start to feel the effects strongly, it’s perfectly okay to stop consuming or take a break. Don’t feel pressured to match the consumption levels of others; everyone’s tolerance is different.
Choose the Right Strain or Product
“As THC, CBD, and terpenes interact with our endocannabinoid system, we can be provided with some amazing medicinal benefits. It makes sense that a combination of all these would be more synergistic together. Below, we highlight some of the purported medical benefits that may be provided by THC, CBD, and the six dominant terpenes found in cannabis,” wrote Cannabis Nurse Matt Cascio. As such, cannabis is unlike many other substances, like alcohol, as many of the effects can be impacted by diet due to the terpenes in cannabis flower and its products. Cannabis consumption of a particular strain or product may produce an entirely different experience on an empty stomach than the same strain or product would produce after eating a meal rich in certain terpenes. The entourage or ensemble effect is an integral part of the cannabis experience and understanding it can greatly impact your results.
Ask an experienced budtender for recommendations your first time and as you identify the terpenes that help you achieve your desired effects be sure to ask for recommendations based on cannabinoid or terpene profiles rather than THC percentages.
Stay Hydrated
Cannabis can cause dry mouth, so keep water nearby to stay hydrated. Also, having light, healthy snacks available can help curb potential munchies and maintain your comfort throughout the experience. Much like alcohol,
Enjoy the Experience
Prepare enjoyable activities before using cannabis. Music, movies, art, or even a walk, or exercise can enhance your experience and provide a positive focus for your attention.
Reflect Afterwards
After the experience, take some time to reflect on how you felt, what you enjoyed, and what you might want to do differently next time. This reflection can help you better understand your preferences and tailor future experiences to your liking.
Journaling your experience is hugely useful. Write down what you consumed, how, your dosage, and information available like terpene profiles. This will enable you to feel more confident the next time you make a selection at a dispensary.
By following these tips, you’ll be better equipped to have a positive and enjoyable first cannabis experience while prioritizing your safety and well-being.
