Written by Guest Post - Rebecca Olmos
I’ve been a cannabis consumer for more than half of my life, and I’ve enjoyed it so much that I’ve infused it into my career. I’ve tried various cannabis products and spent time getting to know and understand cannabis as a wellness tool. I gained a lot of this knowledge as a budtender behind the counter of a busy California dispensary. In the wee hours of the late night into the early morning, I honed my craft as a freelance writer and creator.
In the last year, I’ve transitioned fully into my role as a cannabis writer, and as I have, my cannabis consumption has evolved. I’ve enjoyed my late-night solo sessions more and more. There’s something about the quiet that falls shortly after I take the first few hits off a joint at the end of an eventful day researching, writing, and learning about cannabis. It’s quite peaceful.
Consuming cannabis at night is often associated with sleep, as it can provide sedating effects that some find useful to improve their rest. According to the Sleep Foundation, 70% of young adults who consume cannabis do so in part to help with sleep.
Sleep is a great way to enjoy the calming benefits of cannabis, but that’s not the only thing there is to do while high and alone at night. Plus, why sleep away all those potentially therapeutic feelings?
Whether you enjoy edibles, tinctures, concentrate, or flowers, there are several other ways to enjoy your infused hours at the end of a long day that can be just as enjoyable as sleep. As a daily cannabis consumer, writer, and former budtender, here are a few of my favorite ways to enjoy a nighttime solo cannabis sesh.
The research regarding how cannabis affects creativity in the brain is contradictory to what long-time consumers may tell you. Some studies show that cannabis has little to no effects on the parts of the brain that relate to creativity. It may be, according to some researchers, that cannabis enhances our mood, which in turn improves our outlook on creativity.
Whatever it may be, creating is one of the greatest ways to enjoy the experience of being under the influence of cannabinoids. It’s also great to do alone. Painting, writing, sculpting, or an array of arts and crafts can be enhanced by the focus and relaxation that cannabis can provide.
Some cultivars can stimulate the mind more than the body. Unfortunately, more often than not, this is something that most people have to discover through trial and error, as we all respond to cannabis differently. It can be overwhelming to get lost in thoughts, especially when hanging out alone.
Journaling in a notebook, a blank Google Doc, or even your notes app about what you’re thinking is an activity that could be beneficial in many ways. From improving your mental health to helping you achieve goals putting thoughts into words is one way to enjoy an hour or two while you ride through the high.
Cannabis has been widely studied for its ability to reduce inflammation and relax muscle tension. Some people don’t enjoy smoking cannabis or taking edibles before moving, and that’s okay! These activities are ones where cannabis topicals (that have no intoxicating effects) can be highly beneficial.
While you can totally nuzzle into a couch or pillow, you could also use this time to move your body. Cannabis can add an extra layer of ease to gentle stretching or deep yoga. Even if you enjoy a higher-intensity workout or your move time is later in the evening, cannabis may also help evoke movement in the body.
A classic activity to do while enjoying cannabis is to watch TV, and it’s a top choice for a reason. Getting lost in another world or hearing an exciting storyline is much more enticing when under the influence. A way to take this even further is to diversify the type of content you’re consuming.
Reading is a stimulating and engaging way to get lost in a few hours at the end of the day. And Luckily, audiobooks and digital media have made it even more accessible to readers of all levels. Consuming can also mean consuming art, music, podcasts, and really any content you prefer.
But no pressure! If you’d rather stick to the big screen, you could choose a new series or a movie you’ve always wanted to watch but haven’t got around to. Take a few moments before you partake in your session to intentionally choose something you think you’ll be engaged in that will change your mood, teach you something new, or tell a unique story.
Relaxing doesn’t have to mean sleep. Unwinding after consuming could look like taking a bubble bath, getting a massage, going for a walk, playing an instrument, or meditating – all of which can be better after you’ve taken a few milligrams of an edible.
And in a way, all of the activities listed in this article are all versions of relaxation. That’s the beauty of cannabis consumption. It can alter and enhance a range of feelings and emotions in the mind and body, changing how we view and partake in everyday activities.
The best cannabis adventures are intentional enough to get the most out of the moment and fun enough to let loose and enjoy it. Solo smoke sessions don’t have to be boring or just lead to sleep. Be open to trying new activities, exploring new dosages and products, and take note of how each of those experiences feels. This will help you develop a better relationship with cannabis and your lifestyle.
If you’re just starting your cannabis journey or need some assistance as it changes, Toke has the tools you need. For help choosing the right product and the best tips to infuse cannabis into your lifestyle (through light-hearted educational blogs like this), follow Toke on Instagram and subscribe to the newsletter!
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