5 Ways to Use Cannabis for Self-Care

As long as people have been rolling joints, weed & leisure have gone hand in hand. But as cannabis products become more accessible and available in various forms, we are discovering a new world of serious self-care.

Equating cannabis and relaxation is nothing new, but according to a 2017 survey by a San Francisco-based medical marijuana delivery company, more people, in particular women, “are tending more and more to use [cannabis] as self-care, to reduce stress.” It makes sense in this post-pandemic world, given how real we know stress symptoms can be.

Even with all the stressors of everyday life, many of us fail to make self-care a priority or just find that slowing down for a timeout is a bit of a struggle. Can you remember the last time you took an afternoon nap on your couch? When was the last time you meditated or sat silently for 15 minutes?

Chances are, it’s been a while. Even when you want to relax, there are always things that need to be done. Around your home, with your family, children, or significant other. Errands, laundry, grocery shopping, cooking, and cleaning. Sometimes carving out some “me time” can feel impossible.

If life has you feeling like a hamster on a wheel, perhaps it’s time to schedule time for self-care. Break out your calendar and block off time when you can unwind and recharge; consider the date and time carefully, ensuring it’s one you’re less likely to break because this time is crucial to your overall well-being.

To help you get started, we have put together a handful of ways to help you achieve those breaks and incorporate cannabis into your self-care.

Meditation

If your brain feels like a browser with 80 tabs open, meditation might be the best place to start. This one is harder for some than others because it means you have to turn off those pesky electronic devices and find a quiet place where you are less likely to be disturbed.

If it’s the first time you’ve used cannabis while meditating, it’s important to create a comfortable and familiar environment. The more control you have over your surroundings, the more likely you are to enjoy the experience.

When selecting a cannabis strain for meditation, it’s important to opt for one that won’t cause overwhelming THC effects. A high CBD concentration strain is typically recommended for a more suitable experience.

Remember to take deep breaths while meditating. Deep breathing can slow down your metabolism, lower your blood pressure, and naturally decrease your cortisol (stress hormone) levels. So, be sure to focus on your breathing as you relax and unwind.

Take a Bath

We’ve all heard that cannabis has anti-inflammatory properties, so it just makes sense that infused products can assist with relaxation and comfort from tired minds to sore feet. By adding cannabis oil, or an infused bath bomb to your already relaxing bath, you can soak your entire body in the plant’s pain-relieving and relaxing powers.

Some benefits include:

Gardening

Gardening is a proven way to relax and uplift one’s mood. There are various reasons for this, including the fact that it requires focus and promotes healthy blood circulation through aerobic exercise. Furthermore, natural enzymes present in soil can enhance one’s mood and energy levels.

If you happen to be at home, consider using an Indica strain. There are many Indica-dominant or balanced hybrid strains that can help you relax without making you feel sleepy. Although it may not solve all of your problems immediately, the right cannabis strain can offer much-needed mental relief.

No backyard? No problem! You can still experience the joys of gardening by tending to indoor or patio plants. These plants naturally release terpenes that can improve your mood and provide a temporary distraction from stress.

Exercise

We all know that engaging in regular exercise is vital for a long and healthy life. It not only benefits our physical health but also our mental well-being. Regardless of whether you prefer indoor or outdoor activities, there are numerous options available for you to maintain your fitness levels.

Maintaining good heart health is crucial, both for your physical and emotional well-being. Engaging in cardio exercises such as biking or running can be an excellent way to kickstart your day and focus on yourself.

You may have heard of the “Runner’s High” – a phenomenon where running stimulates the release of anandamide, a cannabinoid in our body that acts similarly to THC in the brain. This binding to the CB1 receptor produces a sense of elation that makes the challenging cardio workout worthwhile. Don’t forget to take care of your body by stretching and rewarding yourself with something soothing after your workout. Including cannabis in your post-cardio recovery routine can help you unwind and relax.

It’s perfectly fine if running is not your thing. Low-impact cardio is still a great way to stay active and taking a leisurely walk while enjoying a pre-roll can be quite enjoyable. Take in the scenery around you and bring your furry friend along if you like. After all, small pre-rolls are often referred to as “dogwalkers” for a reason!

Get Outdoors

The great outdoors and cannabis seem to be a perfect match, as both are products of nature. Think about your favorite outdoor activities, such as gardening, hiking, or exploring nearby conservation areas, and consider incorporating your preferred cannabis product into the experience. By doing so, you may discover a fresh perspective on the natural beauty around you.

Choosing the Right Cannabis for Self-Care

When selecting cannabis for self-care, it’s important to be mindful of strains that may have psychoactive effects that could hinder relaxation. Certain strains can intensify active thinking, leading to heightened anxiety and even paranoid thoughts.

It is important to seek advice from a trusted budtender or physician regarding calming strains. Indica strains have the potential to alleviate worries and stress, but they can also induce sleepiness. Alternatively, certain Sativa and hybrid strains of medical marijuana may not hinder productivity while assisting in temporarily forgetting the source of stress.

Taking a mental break from stress can be the best gift you give your brain and body. It allows you to stop thinking about problems and outcomes, giving you a moment to breathe and simply be at peace.

It’s important to give yourself permission to take a break and trust that your body is a sophisticated machine that can malfunction if you keep pushing yourself too hard. Taking naps is perfectly acceptable, as is indulging in a few hours of Netflix and relaxation for the sake of your overall well-being.