With so much conflicting information about cannabis in the media, it can be daunting to try your first smoke. Whether you want to try cannabis for medical relief or recreation, having the right knowledge will increase enjoyment. Here are some tips that will help you have a safe and gentle introduction to cannabis.
Only Buy From Reputable Sources
Remember how your mum told you not to take candy from a stranger? Similarly, do not buy your cannabis from some random person who hangs out at a park bench or street corner. Do not visit a dealer at an unfamiliar house or under a bridge either. And definitely do not buy from someone who is not old enough to legally consume cannabis.
When you buy from unvetted sources, you have no way of knowing if you will get what you pay for. Worse still, what you were told was quality cannabis may have been mixed with tobacco, tea, or even moldy buds. These can not only ruin your experience but make you sick. Source your cannabis from reputable retailers or someone that you know and trust.
Choose A Friendly Strain
Choosing the right strain will greatly influence your first cannabis experience. Cannabis strains vary widely in terms of effects, potency, and flavor. Strains that are generally lower in THC are considered beginner-friendly because they have fewer psychoactive effects. This means that you will be less likely to feel paranoid or anxious.
Likewise, choosing a more palatable strain can make your first taste easier. Sweet and fruity strains like the Fruit Loops strain can be easier to enjoy than famous strains like OG Kush which have strong earthy and spicy flavors. As you get more experienced, you can move on to different strains and choose your favorite flavors.
Clear Your Schedule
This may not happen to everyone, but there is a good chance that you are not going to be very productive after your first smoke. You may even wake up on the couch several hours later and wonder where the time went. Therefore, be prepared to clear your schedule and devote an entire day to your first cannabis experience.
That is not to say that you cannot do anything while you are stoned. Just try not to make concrete commitments like going to work or meeting your partner’s parents for the first time. Instead, allow yourself to partake in creative and relaxing activities such as painting, yoga, or watching an entire series on Netflix.
Make Sure You Are Safe
Since there is a possibility that you may pass out during your first cannabis experience, be sure to choose a safe setting. A familiar location like your home is the best. Make sure that there is a comfortable place where you can lie down and crash such as a mattress or couch. Never take your first toke in a public place or at someone else’s party.
Another rule of thumb is to have a trusted group of friends available who can look after you. Your friends can help you to navigate feelings of anxiety or paranoia and keep you together. They can also prevent you from getting into compromising situations where you—or other people—may be tempted to act inappropriately.
Food And Water Are A Must
Staying hydrated when you smoke is super important. It will prevent you from feeling hungover the next day and having a tongue that feels as dry as shoe leather. Drink lots of water before you start smoking to ensure that your cells are plump and moist in case you get couch locked for hours. Having several strategically-placed bottles of water will help too.
You must have heard about the munchies by now. Aside from water, it is prudent to have food that is easy to eat such as cereal and cakes within reach. Unless you are a seasoned cannabis user, it is generally not a good idea for you to try to cook while stoned. Instead, have your food delivery apps ready and your favorite pizza parlor on speed dial.
Start Slow And Easy
It takes time for your body and mind to become accustomed to the effects of cannabis. Dosage is a much more significant factor than THC levels or the type of strain. An overly-strong dose can load you up with uncomfortable effects and make the entire experience awful. Therefore, you should start with a low dose and take it slow instead of trying to get the most intense hit possible.
Cannabis use is a deeply personal preference. You do not have to prove anything to anyone and greater resistance to the effects of cannabis does not give any individual bragging rights. It is important to know your limits and enjoy your smoke at your own pace. Leave several minutes between each puff and allow time for the effects and feelings to settle in.
It can take several attempts before you get the hang of using cannabis. Maybe you did not inhale correctly or the strain was not to your taste. Manage your expectations and know that there is a possibility that you may be disappointed by your first experience. However, do not let it deter you from trying again as each experience is different. May you find the enjoyment that you are looking for!