We’ve had a short introduction to terpenes, cannabinoids, concentrates, and all things cannabis throughout the last two weeks. From medicinal properties to flavors and feelings, we’ve equipped you with all the tools to make finding the perfect strain a lot less intimidating. As you collect all your favorite items and new purchases, it’s time to tackle one last thing: the illusive wake-n-bake.
For many that use cannabis, either medically or recreationally, you’ve probably got things to do today. It can be anything: a job, kids, mom is coming to visit in less than an hour. Whichever reason, it’s important to stay productive and moving while still medicating.
Based on the cannabis icons of the 60s and 70s, it can sound a little odd to those who don’t consume. In 2018, however, the idea of the lazy stoner has been nearly dismantled. Instead of going for a run and grabbing a cup of coffee in the morning, many have opted to use cannabis to get their day started instead.
Wake-and-Bake is exactly as it’s spelled out; starting the day with medicating. Many who attempt it, however, spend most of the morning in a daze versus an uplifted eye-opener. We’re going to combine all the different factors we’ve learned about to help you avoid falling right back into bed in the morning.
Won’t That Make Me Sleepy?
For those new to cannabis, there is still a lot of misconception about what it is capable of. You might think that it’s supposed to make you relaxed, how will it get me up in the morning?
Well, believe it or not, there is some science to it.
When you are sleeping your body is inactive for several hours. That means not hydrating or eating for several hours as well. When you wake up, these things can cause a much more intense high. The studies are there but not consistently; considering when you wake up your brain is not at full capacity, you may simply perceive yourself higher than you really are.
Either way, medicating in the morning can be risky if you aren’t consuming things that are beneficial to what you are trying to accomplish.
So What Do I Need?
This is where that Entourage Effect we keep talking about comes in handy. The way cannabis compounds interacts makes all the difference when early morning medicating. For obvious reasons, typically avoid Indica strains. Everyone reacts differently to terps and strains but, generally, aim for sativas. For those who don’t react well to sativa, try hybrids high in sativa terpenes.
As you may remember from our terpene lesson, Pinene gives feelings of focus and creativity. Limonene uplifted the mood and makes users more social. Both sativa terps should be in high doses when choosing a strain. They are also essential to any morning sesh. If you are a more experienced consumer or struggle with anxiety, try adding low doses of Caryophyllene or Myrcene to the mix. The relaxing terpenes without the strong Indica effects can make sure you stay grounded. If you are a bigger Indica smoker, you can play around with the two; but, make sure that your sativa terps are always close in comparison to avoid going into couch-lock territory.
For a lot of people, we’re just not morning people. Anxiety and body pains can creep up and terpenes alone won’t always give long lasting relief. Introduce cannabinoids besides THC into your morning routine. CBD is a great additive to your process if you need an extra kick. The cannabinoid can help ward off anxiety, depression, slight nausea, and chronic pain.
To boost those long-lasting effects even more, look for all those properties in edibles. Do take in consideration the delayed and stronger effects of edibles. I would only recommend the option to experts with infused products and those with extreme pain to address.
To Bake or Not To Bake
So now that you know how to stay lifted all morning, let’s make sure no one can tell. Here’s a few extra tips to keep you sesh between you and the plants.
- HYDRATE! Always stay hydrated, Cannabis can dehydrate you and can sometimes lead to headaches.
- Prepare a decent meal or get snacks. You don’t want the munchies to kick in at the wrong time.
- ‘Bake’ before you get dressed to leave the house. If consuming flower, the smell can stick. You may love that dank smell but your co-workers or mom might not.
It seems you’re all ready to go. Let the weekend know who is boss and wake-n-bake like a pro. If you’re with your significant other, check out our list of date ideas to make it a medicated adventure all day. Just remember, the best part of waking up isn’t Folgers, it’s cannabis.
Written by: Joycelin Arnold
