Tips For First Time Cannabis Smokers

Advice for First Time Smokers

Have you always wanted to smoke cannabis but held off out of fear of the unknown or because of it’s legal status where you live? Were you worried about how to smoke or what to expect?

A lot has changed in the world of cannabis over the last few years. From large scale decriminalization and legalization to new and innovative ways to smoke or consume the world’s favorite herb, cannabis is the recreational drug everyone wants to try (if they haven't already). 

If you’re ready to take the plunge and smoke cannabis for the first time, then you’ve come to the right place! But before you sit down, like up, and take your first drag, you may want to do a little research so you know what to expect and how to make your first experience a great one. This guide will help make sure you are fully prepared for a great smoking experience.

Whether for recreational or medicinal purposes, there are many ways to smoke cannabis, each with their own unique pros and cons. From classic one-hitters and bowls to performance-minded bongs, the tips in this guide will help you get the most out of toking up for the first time.

If you overwhelm yourself, you may find yourself in the middle of a huge coughing fit or have a burning feeling in your throat.

Decide How or What you Want to Smoke Out Of

For your first time, you need to be careful about how you choose to smoke. As a newbie, you should probably stay away from gravity bongs and other pieces that forcibly deliver big hits into your lungs or are complicated to use.

The best choices when smoking cannabis for the first time include:

• An old school one-hitter 
• A small bowl
• A pre-rolled joint

If you have a friend who is an experienced smoker, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to ask them to show you how to take a proper hit. 

If Smoking a One-hitter:One hitters are simple and straightforward. One of the simplest ways to smoke cannabis. Simple load your herb in the end. Then simultaneously light the herb while inhaling through the mouthpiece. Once the herb is lit, remove the lighter and continue inhaling until you reach your lung’s capacity. Hold the smoke in as long as you can comfortably, then exhale.

If Smoking a Joint:As a first-timer, we do not suggest trying to roll your own joint. However, pre-rolled joints can be easily purchased from your local dispensary or rolled by a friend who has more experience. When ready, light the end with a basic lighter while inhaling gently through the opposing end. Once lit, remove the flam and continue inhaling until you reach your lung’s capacity. Hold the smoke in as long as you can comfortably, then exhale.

If Smoking a Bowl:  Pack your bowl with your herb and hold your thumb over the carb, which is the little hole most likely located on the side of your bowl. Light the cannabis with a basic lighter and inhale through the mouthpiece. Once the cannabis in the bowl is sufficiently lit, remove the lighter flame from the bowl and continue to inhale the smoke slowly until your lungs are full. When done, remove your thumb from covering the carb. Hold the smoke in as long as you can comfortably, then exhale.

Make Sure You Inhale Properly

Given that you have not smoked cannabis before, it may take you a few tries to get the hang of inhaling properly. The key is to NOT let the smoke sit in your mouth but instead gently and evenly suck it into your lungs. As a non-smoker, your lungs may be a bit sensitive to the smoke until you acclimate. A pro tip, while you’re getting used to the smoke, is to keep your lips loosely around the mouthpiece of the bowl or joint when inhaling. Doing so will allow both smoke and air to be breathed in simultaneously thus diluting and cooling the smoke entering your lungs.

You May Not Get High the First Time

Many users report that it took them more than one try to feel a buzz. There is speculation as to why this happens but here are a few possibilities:

• You did not take a proper hit – Whether you are learning how to inhale right or do not quite understand how your piece works, you may need some practice before you get a good buzz going.

• Your body is learning to produce cannabinoids – THC binds with cannabinoid receptors in the body and teaches it to produce more. This process takes time, which may explain why the first few tries do not produce a high.

• You were high, but you did not realize it – Some users may not know what to expect when high and not recognize when they are high, especially if it is a light one.

No matter what the reason is, do not get discouraged if you do not get high the first couple of times you smoke.

Staying Hydrated is Key

Drink a lot of water before you consume and be sure to stay hydrated throughout the evening. This will help reduce the cottonmouth feeling that can be a side effect of smoking, as well as keep you from feeling dehydrated the next morning.

Do Not Make Plans

Make sure you have an empty evening ahead of you before you smoke. You may think that you’ll have energy afterward, but chances are that you’ll be in the mood for a nap. Smoking can make you feel tired, and even if you do not pass out, you will feel heavy and zoned-out.

It is safer to plan to be at home. You do not want to be out on the road when you feel a heavy need to crash. Binge your favorite TV show and have plenty of snacks ready to go.

Keep Good Company

Make sure that you are smoking around trusted friends. If you are getting high with strangers, you never know if they decided to lace their consumable with something dangerous. There is also the chance that they may take advantage of you if you pass out.

Your experience will be better with people you know, too. You will be able to completely relax in the company of friends that you trust.

Do Not Act Tough

Even if your friends decide to give you some good-natured teasing, they will not expect you to keep up with their higher tolerances. If they do pressure you to smoke beyond what you are comfortable smoking, find new friends.

When you first start out, stop when you feel high. It may only be one or two hits but realize your limit. It will make your stash last longer, and it will stop you from getting sick.

Prepare for the Munchies

Getting high makes you feel hungry. Either go to the store beforehand to stock up on some of your favorite snacks or quick meals or be ready to spend some money on delivery. Food is never as good as it is when you are buzzed, and you will want to treat your stomach.

By preparing a good snack stash ahead of time, you will not be tempted to get in the car and go to the store. Smoking is fun, but it is much safer in the comfort of home. Do not get behind the wheel until you have come back down, because smoking can slow your reaction times.

Most of All, Enjoy Yourself

The most important tip of all is to have a good time. Find a spot where you are comfortable, whether it is with friends or in your own home. Pick out a fun piece to smoke from. Finding the right piece that speaks to you is almost a rite of passage in the smoking world.

How To Deal With a Cannabis Hangover

Smoking is a relaxing pastime with many health benefits. Welcome to the world of cannabis consumption.