Are you afraid of turning into a lazy stoner? Does the thought of couch lock give you flashbacks to D.A.R.E. in middle school? Afraid of a case of the munchies? Thanks to widespread stereotypes, these are all common misconceptions surrounding the stigma of cannabis. In reality, many cannabis products actually boost energy, productivity, and motivation.
One of the most common stigmas when using cannabis is the lack of motivation that comes with some high-potency products. Though higher potency products are great for tackling a variety of issues such as chronic pain, nausea, and sleep deprivation, they can often leave you feeling lethargic. We’re going to explore a variety of products whose cannabinoid and terpene content make them ideal for providing an energetic and productive experience.
HOW CAN CANNABIS IMPROVE PRODUCTIVITY?
As more and more news, memes, and cat videos live rent-free in our minds, we all are looking for ways to stay on track and remain focused. While cannabis isn’t going to transcend you into a focused frenzy, it can certainly help with various factors that play into productivity.
There is a growing body of research supporting cannabis’ role in productivity and related traits. One study discovered that cannabis increased divergent thinking, or “thinking outside the box,” in uncreative individuals. In a study published in 2016, medical marijuana patients showed improved cognitive functioning following three months of treatment. And a look into some forums suggested that cannabis is therapeutic for ADHD, meaning it can increase focus in some individuals.
But, how you consume cannabis, the products you use, and your genetic composition are critical factors when it comes to productivity and that so-called “balanced state.”
PICKING THE BEST CANNABIS FOR ENERGY
Most people think the difference in the effects of each product lies in the Indica/Sativa classification, but actually, the cannabinoid (active chemical compound) content and the terpene (aromatic compound) profile have far more of a role to play in how you feel and the effects of cannabis.
The increasing amount of hybrid strains is leading scientists and consumers away from the Indica/Sativa classifications. Traditionally, Sativa strains have been associated with effects like:
- Energizing. This is a sought-after effect for daytime consumers or for those who want to consume before doing an activity or being social.
- Uplifting. Many people report that their mood is altered and improves after consuming Sativa strains.
- Sharper focus. Some report that cannabis Sativa strains can help ease a distracted mind and concentrate on the task at hand.
- Increased creativity. For some, consuming a cannabis Sativa product can help shift or unblock creativity, or generate new ideas.
- Mind-expanding. Not limited to creativity, cannabis Sativa strains are often thought to direct attention inward for reflection.
As a result of these effects, some report that cannabis Sativa products offer some relief from symptoms of:
- Depression. With their reported energizing, mood-uplifting, and creativity-inducing effects, Sativas may help combat feelings of lethargy and apathy.
- Anxiety. Similarly, some people report that cannabis Sativa strains can ease anxiety with soothing and uplifting effects. Others find that it helps them “snap out” of repeated or intrusive thoughts.
- ADHD. Because of the cerebral and increased focus effects attributed to Sativas, some people report that cannabis Sativa products help ease symptoms of ADHD.
When choosing cannabis for productivity, look at its terpene content. Terpenes such as myrcene are known for providing a sedative effect. Indica strains tend to contain a high percentage, which is why they are predominantly relaxing. In contrast, Sativa strains usually have large concentrations of terpenes such as pinene and limonene.
MIXING CAFFEINE AND CANNABIS
Few mind-altering substances pair together as harmoniously as coffee and weed.
What the science says: Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant that blocks the neurotransmitters in your brain from making you feel sleepy. That caffeine high is the work of chemicals like cortisol and adrenaline that elevate your blood pressure and boost your energy supplies, causing feelings of power and euphoria. Cannabis, as it turns out, works similarly.
In humans, it looks as though the effects of the combination might primarily be based on one’s own body chemistry and tolerance for each substance. An occasional coffee drinker or one suffering from anxiety might find that cannabis and coffee heighten their heart rate and exacerbates their paranoia, while a daily coffee drinker might simply enjoy a more alert and energized high.
All-in-all, the combination does not appear to be dangerous but should be approached with caution. Caffeine’s addictive nature coupled with its potential ability to enhance the THC high can lead to a greater dependency.
WHAT ABOUT WEED AND WORKOUTS?
Eight out of 10 cannabis users in states where cannabis is legal say they partake shortly before or after exercise, and most report that it motivates them to work out, helps them enjoy exercise more, and improves their recovery, according to surprising new CU Boulder research.
The paper in the journal Frontiers in Public Health is among the first to explore the complicated intersection between cannabis use and physical activity. While many assume the former impedes the latter, the data suggest otherwise.
Even more intriguing, some studies suggest that it is not endorphins that are responsible for the famous “runner’s high” but rather endogenous cannabinoids, naturally produced cannabinoid-like brain chemicals that kick in after a period of exercise, binding to receptors in the brain to make us euphoric and alert. By ingesting CBD or THC, which bind to those same receptors, athletes might enhance or get a head start on that good feeling.
IN SUMMARY
Cannabis is an incredibly powerful tool that can work wonders if you treat it with the right degree of respect. That bar is different for everyone, which is why you will have to find it for yourself. When starting out, a 10-milligram edible might be way too much. With a little experimentation, you might just find that your most productive self is only a couple of milligrams away.
You now have seen how cannabis can help you become more focused and productive. Keep in mind that micro-doses will help you find the perfect strain without feeling overwhelmed.
To find the best edibles, flower, and other products, be sure to check out our menu or stop by one of our locations. We can answer any questions and help you discover the right product for you.
Listen to your body’s feedback, and more importantly, get to work!