Marijuana can be very helpful when you need to relax. It has been proven effective in decreasing both stress and anxiety. Sometimes it can be so calming that all you seem to have left to worry about is where your bed is located and how quickly you can get there.
Marijuana-induced sleepiness is a common side effect felt by many cannabis users. Even if you find the best strain and right dosage for you there may still be times you find yourself unable to shake that sleepy feeling. If you find yourself in this predicament, try one of these 10 simple but effective ways to fight off unwelcome marijuana fatigue.
Inhale Therapeutic Scents
Essential oils have become quite popular in the last few years. Oil diffusers are becoming more prevalent in homes and offices. Diffuser or no diffuser, “choosing the right scent for aromatherapy can help you overcome an afternoon slump and leave you feeling alert and refreshed,” according to sleep.org. Several scents, including peppermint, rosemary, peppercorn and citrus can be effective in making people less drowsy and more alert.
Connect With Nature
“Studies have shown that being around nature, even for small amounts of time, makes people feel more energized,” according to Northwestern Medicine. If you are feeling sluggish after consuming marijuana, try taking a walk into nature. Enjoy the peace, tranquility and oxygen that a natural habitat provides.
Breathe
Breathing techniques can be very helpful when it comes to alertness. “Deep breathing raises blood oxygen levels in the body. This slows your heart rate, lowers blood pressure, and improves circulation, ultimately aiding mental performance and energy,” according to Salem Health.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration is important for most systems of the body, which is why dehydration can have diverse symptoms, including effects on sleep. “People who are suffering from significant dehydration often find that they feel extremely tired, lethargic, or fatigued,” according to the Sleep Foundation.
Exercise
Exercise is one of the healthiest and most effective ways to rid your body of cannabis fatigue. “Aerobic exercise causes the body to release endorphins. These chemicals can create a level of activity in the brain that keeps some people awake,” according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Shower
Taking a shower is a great way to snap you out of a lethargic fog. Cold showers are often highly effective when you are trying to shock your system into being alert. Any temperature shower, not just cold, can help give you the reset you need to stop feeling sleepy.
Consider the Strain
Some strains of marijuana are known to induce sleepiness more than others. Many people even use certain types of marijuana to fight insomnia.
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If you are looking to have a more active experience rather than a good night sleep, do your research. If you are purchasing your cannabis from a dispensary be sure to ask your bud tender for something that won’t knock you out.
Incorporate Caffeine
Caffeine is one of the more common remedies for sleepiness. When you use caffeine to make you feel less sleepy just be sure not to overdo it.
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All caffeinated products release caffeine into your system slightly differently. You may want to opt for caffeination that releases steadily over time rather than something that jolts you with caffeine all at once.
Brighten Things Up
If cannabis is making you sleepy, look at your surroundings. Dim or ambient light can have a calming and sleepy affect on many people. Bright lights can help make you feel more alert. Whether this means turning on a lamp or going outside, some bright eyes may be just what you are missing.
Have a Smart Snack
If you find yourself in a marijuana-induced lethargy, try and make a smart food decision. You may want to reach for empty calorie munchies, but remember your food decision may affect how tired you feel. Northwestern Medicine suggests to “look for foods that have a low sugar index, as they are absorbed more slowly and won’t lead to a sudden drop in energy.”
