As interest in cannabis in Canada continues to grow, and the negative stigma of the plant dies down, more and more people are considering trying marijuana for the first time. Canadians are starting to discover all the benefits of cannabis for both medicinal and recreational use. If you are thinking of trying cannabis for the first time, here are a few things to be aware of.

Be Prepared to Not Get High

It is well known that the first time you try cannabis, you may not get high — especially if smoking is your preferred method of ingestion. This could be for several reasons:

• First, you probably didn’t know what you were doing the first time. It can be a little overwhelming at first. Even if you think you know exactly how to roll a joint, light it, and inhale the right way, it may take some practice to get right.
• Second, some experts also think there’s a “sensitization period” during which you won’t feel high. The psychoactive compound in cannabis, THC, can cause your brain to increase the amount of cannabinoid receptors available. You may have to wait for your body to create enough receptors in order to feel intoxicating effects.

Inhale and Hydrate

You can’t get high if you aren’t inhaling. If you don’t feel like you’re getting high, you may not be inhaling properly. Take a deep breath and let the smoke fill your lungs. If your lungs have not been exposed to smoke of any kind before, you may cough, but that is normal. Make sure that you have water close by and continue to hydrate. Anytime you smoke, the receptors on the floor of your mouth temporarily stop producing saliva.

It’s extra important to stay hydrated if you don’t want your mouth to dry up. Drinking lots of water can also save you from a dry mouth the next day.

Clear Your Schedule and Have Food Nearby

If you’re about to get try cannabis for the first time, you’ll probably feel tired and lethargic. You can wind up feeling heavy-bodied, so if you’re about to smoke for the first time, make sure you’re in a comfortable environment where you can relax and don’t have to go anywhere. Smoking cannabis is supposed to make you chill out and relax.

THC interacts with receptors in the brain that regulate emotions, pain, and our sense of smell and taste. It also promotes the release of the hormone ghrelin, which stimulates hunger. Make sure to have your favorite snacks handy or download your preferred food delivery app beforehand so you don’t have to go out anywhere. Remember, it’s illegal to drive high.

Learn Your Limits

The effects of cannabis are something that you build a tolerance to over time. At first, if you get too “high” after one hit, it’s best to ease your way in. Start with a little and at your own pace, then you can increase your dosage. When getting high for the first time, you don’t want to feel uncomfortable. Know your limits and act accordingly.

Go to a Legal Cannabis Retailer

Consumers have more options than ever thanks to a growing number of legal cannabis retailers. If you’re going to try it for the first time, check out Starbuds or a similar legal cannabis retailer.

Cannabis can be a fun way to relax. Follow these guidelines and you’ll be well prepared to jump into this wonderful world!