Many cannabis users report laughter, munchies, and sleepiness as common effects of weed. While some seek the drowsiness it brings, others prefer to stay energized and functional after smoking.
If you want to avoid falling asleep after smoking weed, we have top tips to help you stay alert and productive. Learn how to prevent the sleepy marijuana effect while still enjoying your cannabis experience.
Ever wondered why cannabis makes some people sleepy? THC, the active compound in marijuana, interacts with receptors in the brain related to the sleep/wake cycle, leading to relaxation and drowsiness. This sedative effect is what causes sleepiness in some users.
Research suggests that myrcene, a substance found in cannabis, could enhance its sedative properties by relaxing muscles. Combined with THC, myrcene may intensify the fatigue-inducing effects, contributing to feelings of sleepiness.
Cannabis consumption can also boost melatonin production, the body’s “sleep hormone,” promoting restful sleep alongside THC and myrcene.
Tips for Avoiding Sleepiness After Smoking Weed
Choose Low THC Strains
Opt for cannabis strains with lower THC levels to prevent drowsiness. High THC concentrations can contribute to the extreme sleepiness reported by some users.
Consider using Delta 8 THC or HHC for a more uplifting or focused experience as alternatives to high-THC strains.
Balance THC Ratios
Understanding THC ratios in different strains can help you select the best product. Lower THC and higher CBD strains tend to offer a more balanced and energizing effect compared to high-THC strains.
By choosing strains that promote wakefulness, you can consume cannabis without feeling too high or experiencing a powerful sedative stupor.
Avoid Mixing with Tobacco
Avoid mixing weed with tobacco to prevent a relaxing effect that might enhance sleepiness. Stick to pure cannabis for a more controlled experience.
Potentially intensifying the sleepy effect that can be caused by marijuana by interrupting your oxygen intake.
In the long run, while nicotine is a short-term stimulant, studies suggest it has been linked to prolonged fatigue, which can become worse with marijuana use.
Avoid Drinking Alcohol
Counteract the sedative effects of cannabis by avoiding alcohol because it is a depressant that can amplify blood pressure and increase the sedative effects of marijuana.
To increase your chances of staying awake and remaining alert, abstain from alcohol. Drinking alcohol before or after smoking can result in you sawing logs well before you want to!
Stay Active and Engaged
Key to staying awake and alert after smoking weed is maintaining an active and engaging environment. Try activities that stimulate your mind and body, such as engaging in conversations, playing games, listening to music, or pursuing creative endeavors. Keeping your mind occupied can counteract drowsiness.
Manage Your Environment
Curate a stimulating environment that promotes wakefulness. Ensure the space you’re in is well-lit, ventilated, and comfortable. Open windows for fresh air, listen to upbeat music, or engage in focus-required activities. A stimulating environment can keep you alert and avoid the temptation to fall asleep.
Tips for Staying Awake After Smoking Weed
Go for a Walk
Stimulate your senses and keep awake by engaging in physical activity like taking a walk. Walking outdoors can invigorate your body and get your blood pumping.
Stretch
Increase blood flow and awaken your muscles by doing stretching exercises. Simple stretches like reaching for the sky, touching your toes, and rotating your neck and shoulders can provide energy and help you shake off drowsiness.
Yoga
Rejuvenate your body and mind by practicing full-body yoga. Include gentle yoga poses like the downward-facing dog or the tree pose in your routine to boost energy levels and promote wakefulness.
Get Some Fresh Air
If you feel drowsy after consuming cannabis, step outside for fresh air. The change in environment and the cool air can awaken your senses and combat the drowsiness caused by marijuana.
Stay Hydrated
To stay awake and alert, drink plenty of water. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, so keep a water bottle nearby and sip regularly for sustained energy levels.
Have a Protein-Rich Meal
Combat drowsiness by consuming a high-protein meal after smoking weed. Opt for lean meats, fish, eggs, or plant-based proteins to replenish energy stores.
Consume Caffeine or Energy-Boosting Foods
If you feel sleepy after smoking weed, natural energy boosters likeIncreasing alertness can be achieved with caffeine or energy-boosting foods.
When you need a quick energy boost, consider consuming coffee, green tea, or energy drinks. Some studies suggest that caffeine can enhance the effects of THC, resulting in a more enjoyable high.
Additionally, sustained energy can be obtained from foods rich in protein and nutrients like fruits, nuts, and yogurt, which can also combat drowsiness.
Selecting the Right Cannabis for the Occasion
Consumption Method
The way you consume cannabis can influence its effects on your energy levels and mood. Smoking sativa strains usually provides a more stimulating experience compared to consuming edibles.
Consider the occasion and desired effects when choosing the method of cannabis consumption. Opt for smaller doses when smoking to avoid sleepiness and stick with a sativa strain for more uplifting effects that keep you awake.
Alternatively, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, edibles may be suitable, but be cautious of the potential for longer and intense effects based on your metabolism and tolerance. Remember to ingest smaller doses of THC to steer clear of drowsiness, especially for less experienced users.
Type of Cannabis
Choosing the right cannabis type is crucial for managing your energy levels effectively. Sativa strains typically offer more energizing effects, making them ideal for daytime use.
On the other hand, indica strains are better suited for evenings when you aim to unwind and prepare for a restful night’s sleep.
Cannabis Strain
Opting for strains known for their uplifting properties can help you avoid feeling sleepy after marijuana consumption. Explore strains like Durban Poison, Green Crack, or Jack Herer, known for their energizing and invigorating effects.
Once you find strains that suit you, you can rely on them for consistent effects that offer greater control.
Empower Yourself for a Wakeful Cannabis Experience
By understanding the factors influencing sleepiness after consuming cannabis and implementing counteractive strategies, you can take charge of your cannabis experience. Selecting low-THC strains, being mindful of THC levels, avoiding tobacco and alcohol, and engaging in energizing activities can help you steer clear of drowsiness and fully appreciate the benefits of cannabis.
Keep in mind that everyone responds uniquely to cannabis and its psychoactive effects, so it’s essential to experiment to determine what works best for you. These tips will empower both seasoned and new users to make informed choices and tailor their cannabis experience to their desired level of wakefulness and engagement.
Fortunately, Everyday Delta offers products suitable for everyone, whether you’re seeking energizing HHC vapes or Delta 8 gummies for a similar experience to Delta 9 without the crash.