Navigating Cannabis-Related Challenges

In the pursuit of holistic well-being, Ganja Yoga combines the benefits of cannabis with the mindful practice of yoga. However, like any wellness endeavor, it's essential to address potential challenges. Here's a hard-reduction guide to assist in preventing and treating one of the most-common cannabis-related adverse effects, so you can ensure a yoga practice that’s smooth sailing! 

Prevention Strategies:

Choose the Right Setting:

  • Set aside a big chunk of time your first few cannabis experiences so you can experience the herb without distraction or rush. 

Start Small and Mindful 

  • If past experiences led to anxiety, reintroduce cannabis gradually in controlled settings to regain comfort and confidence.

Choose Lower-THC Strains:

  • Opt for strains with lower THC content or explore indicas, known for terpenes that promote relaxation over mental stimulation.

Blend with Other Herbs:

Experiment with legal smokable herbs like damiana, mullein, catnip, or Blue Lotus to reduce cannabis potency while maintaining the ritualistic experience.

Consider Higher-CBD Strains:

Individuals lacking the enzyme to break down anandamide may benefit from higher-CBD strains, topicals, or hemp protein powder.

Treatment Strategies:

Leverage Citrus:

  • Combat THC-induced anxiety with citrus, rich in limonene, known for its potent anti-anxiety effects.

CBD Tinctures:

  • Fast-acting and safe, CBD tinctures can counterbalance anxiety, especially if they’re nanoencapsulated. Follow dosage instructions and hold the tincture under your tongue for optimal absorption.

Create an Even More Relaxing Environment:

  • Dim the lights, loosen restrictive clothing, and engaging in calming activities, such as coloring or watching soothing videos, to help ease THC-overdose symptoms.

Hydration and Self-Care:

  • Stay hydrated, maintain warmth, and practice self-compassion. Recognize that discomfort is temporary and part of the cannabis experience.

Mindfulness Practice:

  • Embrace the opportunity for personal growth by practicing mindfulness. Journaling or verbalizing anxious thoughts can turn a challenging experience into a healing opportunity, and some bilateral tapping and deep breathing can help you regulate.

You got this.

By integrating these strategies into your practice, you can optimize the positive effects of cannabis while minimizing potential challenges that over-consumption, certain strains, or the wrong environment or headspace can bring.  Remember that you got this, and many, many others like you (myself included!) have overcome cannabis anxiety, and learned to have a fun relationship to the plant on our own terms, and that’s something you can enjoy too!

Until next time, - see you on the mat.
Dee 


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