What to Expect Your First Time Smoking Weed

We hear it’s about to be your first time smoking weed, that’s awesome! 🌿

Whether you’re curious, looking for some relaxation, or just want to see what the fuss is all about, embarking on your first weed-smoking journey can be an exciting adventure. But, like with any new experience, it’s perfectly natural to have questions and maybe even a few butterflies in your stomach.

Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. This blog is your friendly guide to what you can expect when you take that first puff of the green stuff. We’ll walk you through the basics, from choosing the right setting to understanding the effects and even some handy tips for a smooth ride.

So, kick back, take a deep breath, and join us on this relaxed exploration of what your first time smoking weed might look like. Remember, it’s all about having a safe and enjoyable experience, and we’re here to help you make the most of it. Let’s dive in!

Smoking 101: Expect The Following

1. *Cough* *Cough*

Yes, you’re going to cough your first time smoking cannabis. Don’t worry, we’ve all been there and it’s nothing to worry about!

Coughing is a natural response triggered by your body to protect the lungs from irritation, which can happen when you inhale smoke. You also might find that when you start coughing it can be hard to stop. The best thing you can do is slow down, take a deep breath, and take a drink of water to relieve any discomfort.

2. Dry Mouth

You may have heard about “dry mouth” or “cotton mouth”—get ready to experience it first-hand when you smoke!

It happens because certain cannabinoids (active compounds in weed) bind to brain areas responsible for saliva production and slow it down. Don’t worry though; the dry mouth feeling will go away once the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)—the main cannabinoid associated with the cannabis high—is out of your system.

3. The Munchies

If it’s your first time smoking weed, get ready to meet “the munchies.” This common side effect involves cravings for salty and sometimes very sweet food.

Scientists don’t know exactly why this happens just yet. What they do know is that things taste sweeter under the influence of THC, which might be the main reason for the increase in appetite. It likely has something to do with dopamine, too.

4. Quick and Intense Feelings

The human body often reacts strongly to new substances, so you can probably expect to feel something relatively quickly.

However, what that “something” is will depend on the strain. You might experience temporary pain relief, enhanced focus, or even lowered stress levels. We may have also written a whole blog on the different types of cannabis strains if you’re interested. Just saying.

The Types of High

There are two types of high that you should know about: head high and body high.

A head high can make you feel excited, energized, creative, focused, enthusiastic, active, or inspired. Comparatively, a body high can result in calm, relaxed, sleepy, or drowsy feelings. Both are great in specific circumstances.

5. A Weed Hangover

A “weed hangover” can sometimes occur the day after consuming more than you usually do—so zero, in your case. Like anything in life, moderation is key.

Remember: cannabis affects everyone differently. It might just be a wise idea not to have any important plans first thing the next morning in case you do wake up feeling your night of fun a little too much. Don’t fret if you do end up getting one as a first-time weed smoker—we have another guide for dealing with weed hangovers!

5 First Time Smoking Weed Tips

1. Talk to a Budtender

If you’re thinking about smoking weed for the first time, you probably have a ton of question marks in your head. Get the answers to these mysteries by speaking to a reliable budtender. They’ll be able to give you advice on the best strains for beginners, dosage instructions, consumption methods, storage tips, and more.

2. Clear Your Schedule

If it’s your first time smoking cannabis, you probably shouldn’t make a bunch of involved plans for the rest of the evening. Just chill out!

You don’t want to be feeling the pressure of needing to be somewhere or having something you need to when you’re smoking for the first time. Instead, clear your schedule so you can focus on enjoying the experience.

3. Start Low and Go Slow

Anyone who’s smoked weed will tell you to start low and go slow, and it’s a commandment you should hold near and dear to your heart.

Smoking too much cannabis right away is a recipe for a bad trip. You have to give your body some time to get used to the substance. Try to inhale no more than two seconds directly into your lungs and avoid holding the smoke in your lungs.

4. Smoke Weed In a Safe Space

Whether it’s your first time smoking weed or your nth time smoking weed, always make sure you’re in a safe, comfortable, and appropriate space.

We recommend consuming cannabis at home, especially if you’re just starting. That way you’ll have everything you need—including snacks—and don’t have to worry if it makes you feel sleepy and you want to go to bed.

5. Enjoy!

This is the most important tip of all: enjoy!

Smoking cannabis recreationally is meant to be a fun experience, so eat your favourite snacks, watch a movie, or listen to a great playlist—the whole point is that you’re supposed to have a good time. That’s what it’s all about!

Stock Up At True North Cannabis Co.

Here’s a bonus tip for all you first-time cannabis smokers: make sure you’re puffing a high-quality cannabis strain from a reputable retailer!

True North Cannabis Co. is Canada’s largest independent cannabis retailer for good reason. Every day, we’re breaking new ground in communities as we democratize cannabis. Consumers love us for our weekly promotions and incredible VIP program.

Drop by one of our 51 dispensaries today to load up on unique strains. Ask nicely and our budtenders will happily share some tips, too!