Stress is more than just an inconvenience. It can cause serious mental and physical health problems. That includes things like heart disease, lung issues, and even certain types of cancer. In the current state of the world, it’s undeniable that stress and worry are more prevalent than ever. 

So, it’s no surprise that people are looking for ways to relax, unwind, and destress as much as possible. Research has already shown that the mental health effects of the COVID-19 pandemic could be overwhelming in the coming months and years. But, not everyone wants to take prescription medications for issues like anxiety or depression. 

While you should always follow your doctor’s orders, there are other ways to de-stress and find some peace in the comfort of your own home. Using cannabis for relaxation is a great place to start, and it can be included in your “de-stress” routine. 

Let’s look at how cannabis can be used for relaxation, why it’s so effective, and ways you can use it in your daily life to unwind. 

Why is Cannabis Effective at Reducing Stress?

Cannabis is well-known for helping with many health issues, including anxiety. Many people use it for simple daily wellness, and women can use it for things like: 

• Menstrual health
• Vaginal health
• Breast health

But, why is it so effective at reducing your stress levels and helping you to relax? First, it’s important to note that plants, in general, have been shown to reduce stress. According to the US National Library of Medicine, interaction with plants can help to lower blood pressure and reduce the body’s natural responses to stress. Additionally, many plants can help to boost your mood and even improve your sleep quality, including lavender and chamomile. 

Cannabis, despite its growing popularity, is still relatively new to many people. That’s especially true when it comes to healthcare settings. While more research needs to be done, studies have already shown that small doses of THC are incredibly effective at reducing stress. The effects of cannabis help to subdue feelings of stress and anxiety for a period of time. That can help with everything from lowering blood pressure to improving focus and productivity. While those effects aren’t permanent, they can be used as a part of your daily routine to promote more peace and tranquility. 

Less Stress Starts With Better Sleep 

So many people deal with “racing minds” at night. It’s when all of your stressful thoughts from the day might start to creep in, preventing you from getting a good night’s sleep. 

If you can’t relax when you’re trying to go to bed, cannabis can help. Small doses of CBD before bed can help to reduce levels of anxiety, calm any negative thoughts, and lull you off to sleep peacefully. The best way to use it is to include it in your nightly sleep routine. Set yourself up for sleep success by trying the following: 

• Turn off your phone a few hours before bed
• Take a relaxing bath and use a cannabis-infused bath bomb or essential oils for more of a spa-like experience. Just be careful with that the bath bombs don’t clog your pipes!
• Create a calming space in your bedroom, free of clutter and distractions
• Investing in bedding that makes you comfortable and cozy

Additionally, you can follow a wellness routine before you go to bed each night. Try a few minutes of meditation or mindfulness to get yourself into a more relaxed state. Again, CBD or cannabis-infused products can help you to clear your head and relax enough to focus on your breathing while letting other thoughts come and go freely. 

Cannabis As Part of Your Relaxation Routine

There are still so many stereotypes about cannabis, THC, and marijuana use when it comes to relaxation. Don’t let the images of a typical “stoner” keep you from confirming what research has already shown; cannabis can, indeed, help to reduce stress levels. The best part? Smaller doses of it seem to be more effective than larger amounts. So, a little will go a long way as part of your relaxation routine. 

Other studies have started to show that different strains of cannabis can be more impactful than others. The more research that is done on those particular strains, the easier it will eventually be to find the best possible cannabis and CBD products for relaxation. 

For now, don’t be afraid to try different products to find what works for you when it comes to your relaxation routine. Even if you’re new to the world of cannabis, experimenting with different products is a safe and effective way to lower your stress naturally. If you’re really struggling with anxiety, one of the best things you can do is to talk to a mental health professional. But, if you’re just looking for more ways to relax at home or unwind after a long day, cannabis should absolutely be a part of your routine.