Anna Maria RichardsStress and endless workloads are integral elements of the modern lifestyle. You have to bear them every day, no matter how hard you try to steer clear of them. The worst part is that these factors can take a toll on your physical and mental well-being. You may experience constant fatigue, lose sleep, and sustain mood swings. But you can sideline these side effects of stress by finding ways to relax. Meditation, exercise, and therapeutic options like aromatherapy and massage can help.
You can move a step ahead with stress relief by embracing medical cannabis for relaxation. While cannabis offers immense mental health benefits, you may have some reservations before starting with a daily session. However, you can use it for the long haul safely and without becoming habitual. Here are a few expert-recommended tips to use medical cannabis for relaxation.
Have realistic expectations
Before exploring the therapeutic benefits of medical cannabis, you must have realistic expectations. Although it has healing potential, you cannot expect it to work like magic. The best way to start is by getting an education about cannabinoids. Essentially, cannabis has two primary cannabinoids, CBD and THC. While CBD offers therapeutic benefits, THC sets you up for the quintessential cannabis high. You can consider your expectations to decide the kind of outcomes you want. For example, a CBD-dominant option is ideal for energetic relaxation, while a THC-dominant one gives a couch-lock effect. Knowing these facts enables you to tailor your choice to your expectations.
Pick the right product and consumption method
Picking the right product and consumption method is another piece of advice you cannot overlook while trying medical cannabis for relaxation. Besides reading the labels for cannabinoid information, consider the outcomes for different products and consumption methods. For example, vapes are great for quick relief because the smoke passes on the cannabinoids to your bloodstream instantly. The same applies to sublingual tinctures. But edibles make the ideal choice if you want to relax for a prolonged time. When you ingest a cannabis edible, the cannabinoids get absorbed through digestion. The effects set in slowly, but they stay for long. If you want lasting relaxation from evening to night, opt for an edible without thinking twice.
Stick with an apt strain
Another tip to trying medical cannabis for relaxation is to stick with the right strain. Sativa strains may not be a good option because they give an energy kick rather than slow you down. Conversely, indica strains are potentially sedating and ensure relaxation and good sleep at the end of a busy day. You may even opt for a hybrid strain to get the best of both worlds. But finding a perfect strain matching your expectations requires a lot of research and some experimentation. You can try a balanced, indica-leaning option like the Italian ice strain as it offers a delicate balance. It means you may use it during the day or later in the evening to experience mellow relaxation without getting into a deep slumber.
Manage your dosage
Managing your dosage takes you a long way toward experiencing the best outcomes with medical cannabis, whatever purpose you use it for. With THC-dominant products, less is more. A high dose may have counterintuitive effects because excessive THC may lead to anxiety. With slow and low doses, you can get a mellow feeling of relaxation. A 5mg dose of THC is an ideal one, though you may go up or down depending on individual factors such as your body weight, tolerance levels, and product potency. Journal the effects to find your sweet spot and stick with a dose that works for you. Consider an occasional tolerance break to start afresh with a minimal dose.
Time it right
Timing is another crucial factor when it comes to getting the most out of medical cannabis for relaxation. You cannot expect to feel easy and relaxed by timing a session during the morning rush or right in the middle of a busy day. The effects will probably not help when you already have a lot to handle. You may end up feeling more stressed, so choose your timings wisely. Late evenings are the best hours to indulge in a vaping session or try your favorite edibles. Alternatively, you can plan a session during weekends if you want to experience an easy day at home.
Follow the rules
Remember to follow the rules of cannabis consumption if you want it to work for you. It is tempting to go overboard when looking forward to an evening of enjoyment. But you may end up spoiling the fun by taking too much or repeating sessions too quickly. Practice caution and restraint for the best results. Also, choose an ideal set and setting where you feel comfortable. Your home is the best place, though you may invite a couple of friends to have a good time. Make sure you do not have any urgent tasks at hand and avoid driving after the session.
Combine with other relaxation techniques
Seasoned users recommend combining medical cannabis with other relaxation techniques to get the experience a notch higher. A meditation session makes a great condiment, and so does good music or your favorite movie or book. Having some delicious snacks at hand will help you actually enjoy the munchies. You can even soak in a tub full of water infused with a cannabis bath bomb to experience ultimate relaxation after a hectic day. Just be as creative as possible to get the best from the session.
Medical cannabis can do wonders to induce relaxation and rest. You experience a mellow feeling physically and mentally and sleep better after an evening session with cannabis. But make sure to follow these tried and tested tips to use it safely and have the best time. Opt for a quality product that works for you, and manage your dosage and timing well. A little practice and discipline are enough to get the best outcomes day in and day out without worrying about becoming habitual.
