Marijuana is legal in many areas, whether for medical use, recreation, or both. It’s become more common to use it without the stigma that existed years ago. If you’re thinking about trying marijuana to help with sleep, it’s important to understand how it works and what to expect.
You might have heard about people finding relief from insomnia or anxiety through marijuana, but using it effectively requires some planning. The way marijuana interacts with your body can vary depending on the type, dosage, and timing. To get the results you’re looking for, you’ll need to know the basics and make choices that fit your needs. In this article, we will go over several tips to help you use it to get better sleep.
1 – Choose the right product
Picking the right marijuana for sleep can make all the difference. Some types, like indica strains, are known for being calming and are great for nighttime. Sativa strains, on the other hand, tend to be more energizing, so they’re usually better during the day.
Hybrid strains are a mix and can give different effects depending on how they’re balanced. You’ll also want to think about the levels of THC and CBD. THC can help you fall asleep but might make you feel groggy if you take too much. CBD doesn’t make you high but can help you relax by easing anxiety.
If you’re not sure where to start, ask for help at your local dispensary. For example, NYC Bud on Roosevelt Island, NY, has staff who can recommend strains or products that might work for you.
2 – Get the dose and timing right
Getting the right dose and timing is really important when using marijuana for sleep. It’s best to start with a small amount and see how it affects you before taking more. Jumping in with a big dose can leave you feeling too groggy or too high, which won’t help you relax. Starting low and slowly increasing lets you figure out what works best without overdoing it.
When it comes to timing, most people find that using marijuana about 30 minutes to an hour before bed works well. This gives it time to kick in while you’re winding down for the night. Everyone reacts a little differently, so you might need to adjust the timing to suit your body.
3 – Create the right sleep environment
Using marijuana for sleep works best when you combine it with healthy sleep hygiene habits. While it can help you relax and fall asleep, it’s more effective if your routine and environment also support good sleep.
Start by cutting down on screen time before bed. Phones, TVs, and computers give off blue light that can make it harder to feel sleepy. Turning them off at least an hour before bed can help. Lowering the lights in your home is another way to let your body know it’s time to wind down. Adding a calming activity, like reading, meditating, or listening to relaxing music, can also make a big difference.
