There seem to be two kinds of people in the world, those that love to be busy (and talk about how swamped they are), and those who embrace a slower way of life. When did being busy become a badge of honor? Why do some people feel like being the busiest is something to strive for? We’re all guilty of rushing through our morning routine or multitasking through a conversation with someone. Mindfulness is not our default mode, it’s a skill, and something we need to practice to achieve.
Marijuana can be a great tool to help us focus on slowing down and paying attention to what’s really going on around and within us. Whether you’re a mindfulness-master, or looking to get better about focusing on the present, we’ve put together some tips and resources to help you make the mindfulness/marijuana connection!
Conscious Cannabis Use
What do you love most about your favorite strain? That it puts you into a happy and uplifting state? That you get the giggles? That it calms your mind or relaxes your body? Practicing mindfulness while you’re using marijuana lets you truly embrace your high and focus on the benefits to make the most out of them!
You’ll feel the effects more easily and have a deeper connection with your high when you are mindfully using marijuana. You’ll also get a better sense of effects from different cannabis strains and dosages, making it easier to identify and replicate your best experiences.
Integrating Marijuana Into Your Mindfulness Routine
Shop carefully
Be deliberate about the products you’re buying. Ask your budtender for more background on the product, where it’s grown, what the company stands for and how it’s made. Smell the strain and pay close attention to the specifics you pick up and how your body reacts to it.
Choose a great spot
Plan ahead and choose a really great place to get high, somewhere you’re totally comfortable. Be sure to prep the space so you won’t be distracted or tempted to multitask.
Create a ritual
Whether you’re firing it up, snacking on an edible treat, or dabbing, be really intentional as you prepare for the experience! Get comfy, prep what you need, and choose who you’re going to be with carefully. Think about the steps you’re taking to prepare and as you get high. Enjoy each action and moment!
Choose a mindful activity
From yoga to journaling to meditation, there are a lot of options for how to practice mindfulness. Try a few different ones until you find what’s right for you. Don’t give up too early though, it can take time and practice! Portland has plenty of cannabis-enhanced yoga classes to join in on to help you out as well.
Meditation & Marijuana
Mindfulness and meditation often go hand in hand. When your brain is kicked into overdrive, mindful meditation is a great tool for coming back into the moment, not to mention the positive effects it can have for those dealing with chronic pain, stress, and anxiety. Adding in your favorite marijuana products can really help you dive deeper into those moments, for a beautiful and restorative experience. Here are some of our team’s favorite tips for a great meditation session:
“Choose something to focus your attention on before you start your medicated meditation.“
“Microdosing is a great way to start out, so you’re sure you’ve got the right strain and the right dose for a positive meditation session. Remember to be open and attentive to your body and feelings.”
“Choose a strain that helps you get into a happy, creative and cerebral headspace, or one that you know provides a calming vibe.”
“Remember that when meditating, you need to acknowledge the feelings and thoughts that come up, and let them go. Don’t beat yourself up for what you’re experiencing, let it all go.”
“Don’t be afraid to use guided meditation! There are some really great sessions available to help you focus your awareness.”
“Let your insecurities and worries melt away as you focus on your mantra or a specific sound or intention. Be open to learning about yourself and setting yourself free!”
Are you ready to learn more about the marijuana/mindfulness connection? We want to help! Stop into Green Goddess Remedies in Southwest Portland’s Ashcreek neighborhood near Multnomah Village today! Our budtenders are here to help you find the right strain and products for your next meditation session, or just to help you be more intentional about your purchases.