Trying Cannabis for the First Time in 2024

Every year, I make the same New Year’s resolutions: exercise more, lose weight, eat better, and save money. But in 2023, I found myself making a different kind of resolution: To try cannabis for the first time. It was a decision met with excitement and hesitation as someone who had never tried it before, not in high school, university, or private life. I wasn’t a prude; I didn’t know what to expect and had many questions. Plus, it wasn’t legal for most of my adolescent and adult life. Would it make me feel out of control? Would I become addicted? After researching and talking to friends and the folks at Pluto Cannabis, I decided to take the plunge. In this post, I’ll be sharing my experience and everything I learned along the way.

The first thing I did was research the different types of cannabis and how to consume it. I learned that there are two main types: THC, which is the psychoactive compound that gives you a ‘high,’ and CBD, which has more therapeutic and medicinal benefits. I also learned about the various ways to consume it, such as smoking, vaping, edibles, and tinctures. As someone who had never smoked before, I was apprehensive about inhaling anything into my lungs, so I decided to try a CBD tincture. I figured it would be a more controlled and subtle way to ease into it.

Next, I talked to friends who had experience with cannabis to get their recommendations and advice. One friend suggested I try it in a comfortable and familiar setting, like at home or with close friends. Another friend warned me to start with a low dose because edibles can be tricky and take longer to kick in. Both recommendations were utterly sound. I also talked to my doctor to make sure it wouldn’t interfere with any medication or health conditions I’m currently experiencing. I’m in pretty good health. However, one never knows, especially over the age of 50.

When the day finally arrived, I felt both nervous and excited. I followed the instructions on the tincture bottle and placed a few drops under my tongue. I waited for about half an hour, not feeling much of anything. Then, suddenly, it hit me. I felt a sense of relaxation and calm wash over me. The colours seemed brighter, and the music sounded richer. I didn’t feel out of control or dizzy; it was just a relaxing euphoria. It was different from the feeling alcohol provides, of which I’ve had decades of experience. Euphoric and relaxed is the perfect explanation.

After a couple of hours, the effects started to wear off, and I felt relaxed and experienced the munchies. I indulged in delicious salty and sweet snacks and then relaxed for a quick nap. The rest of the evening was spent laughing and chatting with friends, feeling content and relaxed. For me, it was a positive experience.

Trying cannabis for the first time was a memorable experience. I learned that it’s essential to educate yourself and start slowly, as everyone’s tolerance and reaction differ. It’s also important to trust the source and quality of the product, especially since it’s still illegal in some places. But overall, I found it to be a positive and enlightening experience. Throughout 2023, I experienced both THC and CBD products. I enjoy THC and have reduced my consumption of alcohol. I feel better in the mornings and have lost a few pounds. In retrospect, I plan to have fewer snacks in the house in the upcoming year and resist the munchie temptations. If you’re considering trying it yourself, remember to research, talk to friends, and approach it with an open mind and a sense of curiosity! I hope your experience is as rewarding as mine and remember to talk to your Pluto budtender; they will help you immensely.