We’ve offered tips and tricks for beginners, but this is the first time we’ll take you through every single step that a consumer should take in order to achieve the most enjoyable, safe, and fulling cannabis experience. Of course, many have had success going down this path with far less direction. However, now that we know better, we can ensure that fewer people have to endure incredibly uncomfortable results, so if you’re looking to avoid as much risk as possible, this is an excellent place to start.
1. Research
Most pre-legalization consumers had to start with a joint full of some random strain, smoke it and then hope for the best, without having any real idea what it could do, and that would often lead to small bouts of panic or anxiety as the effects took hold, because they can be overwhelming, especially for first-timers. Nowadays, you can look up every possible strain, product, effect, and what to expect from a buzz, as well as tips and tricks to help you overcome a high that’s just too much – all things that should be done before you start.
2. Buy from a legitimate source
Far too many cannabis enthusiasts still rely on the black market to get the products they need at affordable prices, but if it’s your first time, then it’s probably safe to say that you aren’t going to need a large amount, so it shouldn’t be an issue to pay top dollar for an experience and product you can trust.
3. Enlist the help of a friend
Friends can offer support during this deeply spiritual journey, even if you don’t plan on taking too much. They can keep you company so that you aren’t afraid and look out for you, or even get help if it’s needed at any point. Much like a designated driver, having a sober buddy that will watch your back while you get stoned for the first time is always a good idea.
4. Choose a safe place
Getting high is very much influenced by the environment in which you choose to do it, which is why it’s so important to settle on a space where you feel safe, comfortable, and preferably at home. Until you get the hang of things, it’ll be a good idea to avoid public spaces and anywhere else that you might not have access to a comfortable place to rest or even sleep as needed, and the privacy to avoid embarrassing situations is always a bonus.
5. Go into it at the right time
Why are you looking to try cannabis? Is it because you’re angry or scared? Maybe you’re anxious or depressed and hope that getting high could be the solution you’ve been looking for, and that could be true, but much like the environment, your state of mind may have a huge impact on this experience, and in some cases, the buzz might not do what you like. It could exacerbate those symptoms or even cause them, so it’s important to go into this when you’re in the best, most positive and confident mood, rather than a time you feel low.
6. Eat well beforehand
Learning how to get high is exciting and distracting, but don’t let that stop you from taking care of yourself right up until the moment you spark up, which means eating really well. This will help you to avoid any potential adverse effects, bounce back faster, and reduce the intensity of the buzz, and that’s usually a great thing for those who aren’t quite used to the sensations that go along with getting stoned.
7. Less intense methods
You might be thinking that smoking isn’t the right method for you due to the fact that you’ve got to inhale actual smoke which isn’t very good news for your lungs no matter how you slice it, but the truth is that most healthy methods of using cannabis can be far more intense with effects that last upwards of several hours. For that reason, vaping or smoking is generally recommended, but no matter what you settle on, it’s essential to keep our next point in mind.
8. A low dose
No matter which method you choose, it’s absolutely critical for beginners to pay close attention to the strength because that’s what matters most of all. Since it’s your first time getting high, you’ll want to look for the lowest possible dose, as that should give you a good baseline to start on as you slowly become accustomed to the effects. 5mg or less for edibles, 16% or fewer THC strains, and avoiding the majority of more concentrated extracts are often recommended beginner doses that work with the least amount of risk.
9. Strict limits
Settle on a limit and stay within it no matter how tempting it might be to let loose, because the effects of cannabis can be sneaky, kicking it mere minutes or depending on method hours later. So, though you may feel ok after a single joint or edible, it’s best to give it at least 2 hours or more before taking things any further, and this amount should not be exceeded to avoid a potentially uncomfortable result.
10. Stay hydrated
Unlike alcohol, cannabis doesn’t dehydrate as you go, but it is sure to leave you with a dry mouth, and even if it doesn’t, you’re going to want to stay hydrated. This will help to reduce any possible nausea or dizziness and make it easier for you to recover from the buzz – plus it’s just a healthy thing to do for your overall well-being, so don’t forget to keep a bottle of a thirst-quenching liquid handy at all times.