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Can anyone be blamed for overwhelming feelings of stress, anxiety, and even bouts of insomnia in the world these past few years? Mental Health has become a severe problem on a global level. The world seems out of control since the beginning of COVID, leading right into the Russian Dictator’s invasion of the sovereign democratic country of Ukraine. Yes, things look out of control, and with the US Presential election coming later this year, every day it’s harder to be optimistic about the future.
The two presidential candidates are the worst we’ve seen in decades. So, what can we do on an individual level to hang on, and maybe even improve our personal mental health? Can Marijuana truly help? Let’s find out below…
I was just like all of you – stressed, anxious, and seriously lacking in sleep most nights. It’s miserable. I used to toss and turn for hours, but now I’ve finally found the secret to unwinding and getting the rest I need: cannabis.
I’ll share how I discovered the ideal strains and proper doses to help me chill out and catch some much-needed good, sound, sleep. We’ll look at the major types of strains, and I’ll recommend specific ones that are great for melting away worries and easing into dreamland. Want to know the best methods for consuming and the right times to partake? I’ve got you covered.
Let’s explore how this natural plant together, and see how it can work wonders on your winding-down routine. The insights I’ve gained can definitely help you feel more at peace and improve your sleep hygiene. So settle in and get ready to learn how cannabis could change your nights for the better.
Understanding Cannabis: Indica vs. Sativa for Stress, Anxiety, and Sleep
As someone dealing with stress, anxiety, and insomnia, the strain of cannabis you choose matters. Indica strains are generally considered better for relaxation and sleep, while sativas are more energizing. For me, indica-dominant hybrids work best.
Indica
Indica strains contain higher amounts of CBD, the calming cannabinoid, and less THC, the psychoactive compound that can worsen anxiety for some. Indica strains like Granddaddy Purple, Northern Lights, and Blueberry produce a mellow, sedating effect. They relax the mind and body, relieving stress and muscle tension so you can sleep peacefully.
Sativa
Sativa strains are high in THC and lower in CBD, producing an energizing, uplifting high. While Sativas like Sour Diesel, Green Crack, and Durban Poison can boost mood and spur creativity, the mental stimulation may worsen symptoms of anxiety or insomnia for some. I avoid strong Sativas.
Hybrids
Hybrid strains balance the effects of Indicas and Sativas. Indica-dominant hybrids with moderate THC and higher CBD, like Bubba Kush, OG Kush, and Purple Punch are ideal for anxiety and sleep relief without the heavy sedation of pure Indicas.
Method of Consumption
For fast relief from stress and insomnia, I prefer vaping or smoking dried flower or concentrates. Edibles and tinctures work too but effects take longer to set in and last longer. Start with a low dose of 5-10 mg of THC and increase slowly. Stay hydrated to avoid cottonmouth and take breaks to avoid building up tolerance. That doesn’t mean drinking soda or alcohol though. Soda or carbonated drinks can dehydrate you, while alcohol is definitely a bad idea to combine with cannabis when you’re looking to relax, relieve stress, or get a good night’s sleep.
The key is finding what works for you. With some experimentation, cannabis can be a natural solution for anxiety, stress reduction, and better sleep. While I’ll discuss Sativa strains below, trust me when I say Indica strains are your best bet, at least at first.
The Best Cannabis Strains for Reducing Anxiety, Stress, and Insomnia
I’ve found certain cannabis strains can help relieve these issues and promote a sense of calm. For anxiety and stress, I prefer Indica-dominant hybrids like Granddaddy Purple or Northern Lights. These strains contain relaxing terpenes like linalool that help ease my mind and body.
Indica vs Sativa vs Hybrids
Indica strains are known for their sedating, full-body effects that are perfect for nighttime use or when you want to unwind. Sativas, on the other hand, tend to be more uplifting and energizing. Hybrids offer a balance of indica and sativa effects. For insomnia and anxiety, I stick to Indica or Indica-dominant hybrids.
Finding Your Optimal Dose
Start low and go slow. As I said above, begin with 5 to 10 milligrams of THC and wait at least two hours before increasing your dose. Edibles and tinctures are easy to dose accurately, and the effects last longer than smoking. However, smoking or vaping allows you to feel the effects faster so you can find the right dose for you. Drink plenty of water or Gatorade to avoid Cottonmouth and stay hydrated.
Through the many months I’ve been using weed to reduce stress and aid in sleep, I kept a bottle of Crystal Light Iced Tea by my side, even in bed (on the nightstand of course). Crystal Light doesn’t contain actual tea leaves, which can act as a stimulant (caffeine), and does a good job hydrating.
The key is finding strains and doses that work for you. It may take some experimenting, but when you discover the combination that helps quiet your mind and relax your body, you’ll be well on your way to less anxiety, stress, and better sleep.
Optimizing Your Cannabis Routine: Tips for Dosing and Consumption
When it comes to using cannabis for stress and sleep, finding the right strain and dose for you is key. Through trial and error, I’ve found what works best for my needs.
Timing and Consumption Method
For daytime stress relief, I prefer a tincture, as the effects feel more functional and last 4-6 hours. At night, an indica edible about an hour before bed helps me fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. As for side effects, drinking plenty of hydrating fluids and using eye drops will help reduce dry mouth and eyes.
Again, the key to success is starting low, adjusting slowly based on how you feel, and being patient through some trial and error. When you find the strain, dose, and method of consumption that works for your needs, you’ll feel the anxiety-relieving and sleep-inducing benefits of cannabis. Over time, you can continue experimenting to optimize what works best for you. The most important tip is to listen to your body and adjust accordingly.
More on Edibles and Tinctures
Edibles like gummies or brownies and tinctures (liquid cannabis extracts) you put under your tongue are convenient and long-lasting. The effects can take 30-90 minutes to feel, but then provide relief for 6-12 hours. The key is to be patient through the process. With edibles, the effects tend to be more full-body, helping relax your muscles and mind. If you’ve never visited a dispensary for cannabis you will be surprised of how many different edibles there are.
Vaping with a Dab Rig
Vaping dry herb or cannabis extracts also works well for fast-acting relief from anxiety or sleep issues. The effects are felt within 5-10 minutes and last 3-4 hours. Vaping allows you to control your dosage precisely and avoid the “too high” feeling some experience with edibles. It provides a clear-headed, relaxing effect. I prefer vaping a bit before bed to quiet my mind and unwind.
Vaping cannabis concentrates has revolutionized the way people consume cannabis, offering a more discreet and efficient alternative to traditional smoking methods. The PILLAR by Yocan is a cutting-edge device designed specifically for vaping concentrates, providing users with a convenient and effective way to enjoy their favorite extracts.
The PILLAR’s sleek and portable design makes it ideal for on-the-go or stay-at-home use, allowing users to discreetly vape their concentrates wherever they are. The device features advanced heating technology that ensures a smooth and flavorful vapor with each inhale.
With its precise temperature control settings, users can customize their vaping experience to suit their preferences, whether they prefer a low-temperature hit for maximum flavor or a higher temperature for a more intense effect.
One of the standout features of the Yocan PILLAR is its long-lasting battery life, which ensures that users can enjoy extended vaping sessions without needing to recharge. Additionally, the device is easy to clean and maintain, making it a hassle-free option for those looking for a convenient and reliable way to vape cannabis concentrates.
No matter the method, stay hydrated and avoid caffeine or sugar intake for the best results. Keep in mind, that cannabis affects everyone differently. Finding the right product, strain, and dose for you may take some experimentation. But when you discover what works, you’ll be well on your way to less stress, better sleep, and an overall improved sense of well-being.
Cannabis for Stress and Insomnia FAQs
What strains are best for reducing stress and anxiety?
Personally, I’ve found Indica-dominant hybrid strains to work the best for calming stress and anxiety. Strains like Granddaddy Purple, Bubba Kush, and Northern Lights contain relaxing terpenes like linalool that help ease tension and worry. The higher THC levels, especially in edibles and concentrates, also promote an overall sense of calm. Start with a lower dose, around 5 to 10 milligrams of THC, and see how you feel after an hour or so before increasing. The effects can take time to fully kick in.
What about insomnia? Are certain strains better for sleep?
For sleep issues, I highly recommend heavier indica strains known for their sedative effects, like Do-Si-Dos, Purple Punch, and Blueberry Kush. These strains tend to have higher amounts of relaxing and sleep-inducing terpenes that quiet an active mind and ease you into slumber. Again, start with a low dose, maybe around 10 milligrams of an indica edible or a few puffs of a vape pen about an hour before bed. The key is to find the dose that works for you without causing unwanted side effects like grogginess the next day.
Should I smoke, vape, or use edibles for these benefits?
Even though I prefer a Tincture for Sleep and a concentrate/bad rig for evening use, it has also been my experience, that edibles tend to work the best for stress, anxiety, and sleep problems for most people. Edibles produce longer-lasting effects that can ease symptoms for 6 to 8 hours, unlike smoking or vaping which typically only last 1 to 3 hours. Edibles also tend to produce stronger bodily effects that promote an overall relaxed state. However, edibles take longer to kick in and doses can be harder to control, so start low and slow. Vaping and smoking have their place as well for faster relief, just keep in mind the shorter duration of effects.
Conclusion
Cannabis can be a great tool for dealing with stress, anxiety, and sleep issues if you find the right strain and dose. Start low and go slow, pay attention to how different strains affect you, and don’t be afraid to experiment a little. Finding the optimal strain and dose might take some trial and error, but once you discover your personal sweet spot, cannabis can work wonders. With responsible and thoughtful use, cannabis could help you finally get the restful sleep and lowered anxiety levels you’ve been searching for. Now go relax and get some rest – you deserve it!
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