4 Steps to Finding the Right Cannabis Experience
Make no mistake about it, the effects of marijuana tend to vary. And since most people sustain changes in their sensory perceptions when using it, it’s fair to say that the cannabis experience can be different for everyone. Yourself included!
So, how do you go about identifying which one best suits you?
1. Gain some insight into yourself.
Am I new to cannabis, or am I experienced? Good question. Is lung health, or are thick smoke odors, a concern for me? Do I have food allergies, or am I counting calories? Another good question — both of them! Where will I most likely be when I’m enjoying this cannabis? Do I know who I will be enjoying it with? More good questions. Okay, you see where we’re going with this. The bottom line is that, before you consult with an industry professional (slash budtender) and aim to personalize your cannabis experience, you should definitely conduct a little Q&A with yourself. When it comes to eventually selecting suitable strains, products and consumption methods, doing so will help make your visit easier. With a little accompanying research, you may realize you seek small amounts of flower and low-dose edibles instead of concentrates. Alternatively, you may realize you’ll prefer vaporizers to bongs, pipes and spliffs.
2. Learn more about available strains and consumption methods.
Picking up where the last step left off, whether you’re a newcomer or seasoned cannabis consumer, a trip to your nearest, most reputable dispensary won’t just better inform you about the strains that exist, but the products and consumption methods that will better meet your needs. It could take several visits, as the cannabis marketplace is a progressively crowded one. Strains include indica, sativa and the lesser-known ruderalis. Products on the rise in 2019 range from cannabis oil to cannabis beauty and skin care products, cannabis beverages, cannabis chocolates and gummies, cannabis capsules and so forth. Consumption methods include inhalation (be it smoking or vaporization), oral delivery (tinctures, ingestible oils and edibles) and topical administration. It’s a lot to take in. Thankfully, your dispensary’s top budtenders will be able to help you navigate the oft-confusing terrain.
3. Eliminate your fear of the unknown.
These budtenders will also help you get more comfortable and build self-confidence as you embrace your pursuit of the right cannabis experience for you. Having trouble understanding the THC and CBD content displayed on your cannabis product label? They’ll tell you the first numbers represent the active cannabinoid levels in the cannabis as purchased, and that the second numbers represent the active cannabinoid levels in the cannabis when ready for consumption. Worried about maintaining freshness? They’ll tell you that if your product is properly stored in a dark and dry place, in an airtight container, it should maintain its full potency until opened. Curious how long cannabis will stay in your system? They’ll tell you it depends on how much you consume, how you consume it and your genetics, age, personality, gender and other personal biological factors. The list goes on.
4. Manage your cannabis experience by consuming responsibly.
If you’re a rookie or admittedly haven’t used pot for years — or are experimenting with a new product or method of consumption — start with a very small amount. What’s more, contemplate trying lower-risk alternatives to smoking, at least at the start. That said, when ingesting cannabis, do wait at least an hour to gauge effects, as even a small amount can produce an intense effect. You should also gauge the THC and CBD content in your products. New users in particular should opt for mild THC levels. Or, to counter some of the effects of THC, choose products with higher CBD levels. Then there are all the health and safety factors to consider. Never drive after or while consuming cannabis. Avoid consuming cannabis if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Don’t mix cannabis and alcohol, as it increases impairment. Do your homework, as they’re not all this obvious.
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This article was written by The Blissed Team.
Published on August 30th, 2019.