Cannabis 101: What to Expect the First Time You Smoke Cannabis

So, you’ve decided to try cannabis for the first time, maybe out of curiosity, maybe because a friend offered. Whatever your reason, understanding what to expect can help ease any anxiety and ensure a more enjoyable experience. Like anything new, preparation is key.

This beginner’s guide will walk you through what cannabis is, how it works, and what you should expect the first time you smoke it, without diving into medical claims. Whether you’re aiming for a relaxing evening or just want to explore, this guide will help you start responsibly.

What Exactly Is Cannabis?

Cannabis is a complex plant that contains over 100 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids. The two most well-known are:

• THCa (Tetrahydrocannabinol): The psychoactive component responsible for the “high.”

• CBD (Cannabidiol): Non-intoxicating, often associated with promoting relaxation and balance.

Though both share the same chemical formula, they interact with your body in very different ways. THC binds with cannabinoid receptors in the brain, affecting mood, perception, and behavior. CBD, on the other hand, may support a calming effect without the high.

Before You Light Up: Key Decisions to Make

If you're new to cannabis, consider these important decisions before you smoke:

1. Know What You're Consuming

Avoid unlabeled or street-sourced cannabis. Visit a reputable dispensary where you can ask questions and read labels. Look for products with moderate THC content (typically under 15%) to start.

2. Choose the Right Strain

Cannabis comes in different strains:

• Sativa: Known for uplifting, energizing effects, often used during the day.

• Indica: Offers more relaxing, calming effects, great for winding down.

• Hybrid: A mix of both, offering balanced results.

Ask your budtender for a strain suitable for beginners with low to moderate THC and, if possible, a bit of CBD to balance the experience.

3. Pick Your Consumption Method

While this guide focuses on smoking, cannabis can be consumed in many ways:

• Edibles: Like gummies or chocolates, longer onset, but longer effects.

• Vaping: A cleaner alternative to smoking.

• Topicals: Lotions and creams used on the skin.

• Tinctures: Oils taken under the tongue.

For first-time users, joints are a popular entry point, but keep in mind that inhalation hits faster and stronger than edibles.

How Smoking Cannabis Affects the Body

When you inhale cannabis smoke, THC enters your lungs and quickly absorbs into your bloodstream, delivering effects within minutes. You may feel a shift in your mood, sense of time, and physical sensations.

Possible short-term effects include:

• A sense of euphoria or giddiness

• Enhanced appreciation for music or food

• Heightened sensory perception

• Increased social connection or talkativeness

• Dry mouth and red eyes

• Hunger, commonly referred to as “the munchies”

These effects vary depending on the strain, dose, your metabolism, and your setting.

Your First Time: Step-by-Step Smoking Guide

Here’s what a typical first-time smoking experience might look like:

1. Start in a Comfortable Setting

Choose a relaxed, familiar environment. It’s best to be around people you trust—preferably someone experienced who can guide you through the process.

2. Take One or Two Small Puffs

If you're smoking a joint, inhale gently and hold the smoke in your lungs for just a second or two before exhaling. You don’t need to hold it in longer; your lungs absorb THC quickly.

3. Pause and Wait

Don’t rush. Wait a few minutes to assess how you feel before taking another hit. Everyone's tolerance is different, and cannabis affects people at different speeds.

4. Hydrate

Keep water nearby to counter dry mouth. Snacking can also help with any sudden cravings.

5. Pay Attention to Your Body

Cannabis may make you feel light-headed, giggly, or very calm. In rare cases, it may cause temporary anxiety or paranoia. That’s why it's crucial to start small and go slow.

Tips to Avoid an Overwhelming Experience

• Don’t mix with alcohol or tobacco your first time.

• Avoid overconsumption. Taking too much too soon is a common rookie mistake.

• Don’t drive or operate machinery. Even small amounts can impair coordination and judgment.

• Choose a low-stress environment. Turn on some music, dim the lights, or enjoy a walk in nature.

If at any point you feel uncomfortable, breathe deeply, drink water, and change your surroundings (e.g., step outside for fresh air or lie down). The effects will wear off gradually, usually within 1–3 hours.

Post-Experience: What to Expect After

Don’t be surprised if you feel tired, hungry, or sleepy afterward. Some people feel more relaxed than usual, while others might feel foggy-headed. Make sure you get a good night’s sleep and hydrate.

You may also notice dry, red eyes or slight coughing, both common side effects of smoking. These diminish with experience or can be avoided by trying alternative methods like vaping or edibles.

Final Thoughts

Your first time smoking cannabis doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right preparation, mindset, and setting, it can be a fun and enlightening experience. Focus on starting low, going slow, and staying safe.

Everyone’s journey with cannabis is different. Take your time to learn what works best for you, and don’t hesitate to ask for guidance at your local dispensary. Responsible, informed use will always make for the best experience, first time or not. We have a variety of stuff you can start with.