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The Guide to Stoned Parenting

Published

2 weeks ago

April 24, 2024

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stoned parenting guide

A Guide to Stoned Parenting

As the legalization and normalization of cannabis continues to spread across the globe, it’s becoming increasingly common for parents to use marijuana. This trend shows no signs of slowing down – in fact, it’s likely that the number of parents who smoke cannabis will only grow in the coming years. While this may be an uncomfortable reality for some, it’s a fact that we as a society need to face head-on.

Interestingly, being a “stoned parent” isn’t necessarily a bad thing. For those dealing with the often overwhelming stresses of parenting young children, a little cannabis buzz could actually be helpful in some ways.

It may allow you to keep your cool during a toddler’s 20th tantrum of the day, or help you smile through yet another mind-numbing repetition of “Baby Shark.” Of course, moderation and responsibility are key – no one is advocating getting completely baked while on full-time daddy or mommy duty.

However, even as cannabis use becomes more accepted and mainstream, it’s crucial for pot-smoking parents to be mindful of the unique challenges and considerations that come with this lifestyle choice. Unfortunately, social stigma around parents using cannabis still very much exists.

Additionally, at each stage of a child’s development, parents need to navigate age-appropriate ways of discussing and modeling responsible substance use, whether that substance is marijuana, alcohol, or something else.

The goal of this article is to explore some of the key things that parents who use cannabis should keep in mind as they strive to raise healthy, well-adjusted kids in a world where weed is increasingly widespread.

We’ll look at everything from keeping your stash safely out of little hands to talking to your teens about responsible cannabis consumption. While it may sometimes feel like a balancing act, it’s absolutely possible to be a great parent and responsibly enjoy cannabis too. Let’s dive in and talk about how.

As a parent who uses cannabis, one of the most important things to understand is that your children are constantly observing and learning from your behavior. Kids are like little sponges, soaking up everything they see and hear, and then using that information to build their own models of how to act and react in the world. This process, known as modeling, is one of the primary ways that children learn and develop their core habits and behavior patterns.

What does this mean for you as a cannabis-using parent? Simply put, you need to be very mindful of how you consume and talk about marijuana in front of your kids. If you frequently use cannabis to cope with stress or anger, for example, your child may internalize the idea that this is an appropriate way to deal with difficult emotions. Similarly, if you’re always lounging around stoned and unmotivated, your kid may come to see that as normal adult behavior.

Now, this isn’t to say that you can never consume cannabis in front of your children. In fact, as weed becomes more socially accepted, it’s important for kids to understand that it’s something some adults do – similar to drinking alcohol. The key is to differentiate between “adult use” and “child use.” Starting around age 5, and certainly by age 8 and up, you should begin explaining to your child that some things, like cannabis and alcohol, are only for grown-ups.

Of course, an essential part of responsible cannabis use as a parent is keeping your stash well out of reach of curious little hands. Kids have an uncanny ability to find things they shouldn’t, so it’s critical to lock up your weed, edibles, and paraphernalia. Consider investing in a lockbox or designating a specific “off-limits” area that your children know is strictly forbidden. And even within your secure storage spot, it never hurts to have an extra “decoy” box in case crafty kids make it that far.

When you do consume cannabis in front of your children, try to do so as naturally and responsibly as possible. Taking a discreet hit from a vape pen or pipe, then going about your day as normal, helps reinforce the idea that this is simply part of some grownup’s routine – not something illicit. That said, discretion and moderation are important. Don’t lounge around with a huge bong all day, or consume to the point that you’re noticeably impaired while primary parenting. If you need to take a smoke break, step away, consume quickly, then rejoin your kids with a clear head.

Ultimately, by modeling responsible cannabis use, securely storing your stash, and openly discussing the differences between “grown-up substances” and “kid-friendly” ones, you can help your children develop a healthy, well-adjusted understanding of marijuana’s role in some adult’s lives. It’s all about striving for that balance between normalization and necessary age-appropriate boundaries.

At some point you’ll need to have a conversation (or more likely, a series of conversations) with your child about marijuana. Navigating these talks can feel tricky, but the key is to go in with a clear idea of the core message you want to convey in order to foster a healthy understanding of cannabis in your child’s mind.

When your kids are young, usually simple, straightforward answers are best. If they ask about your cannabis use, you don’t need to get into the nitty-gritty details. Just offer a brief, age-appropriate explanation that satisfies their curiosity while reinforcing the idea that marijuana is something only for adults. You might say something like, “This is a special plant that helps mommy relax sometimes, but it’s just for grown-ups, not for kids.”

However, as your children get older and enter their teenage years, it’s important to revisit and expand upon the cannabis conversation. By this age, it’s highly likely that your kid will encounter marijuana in some social setting with their peers. As a parent, you want them to be prepared for this.

While every family will handle this differently based on their own values and circumstances, I personally believe in being upfront and realistic. Assuming you used cannabis yourself as a teen, it would feel hypocritical to completely forbid your own child from experimenting.

That said, you can explain to them that trying any psychoactive substance, including weed, fundamentally changes their brain chemistry and the way they experience the world. Advise them that waiting until they are older, and their brain is more fully developed, is the wisest and safest choice.

You might also let them know that if and when they do decide to experiment with cannabis, you would much rather they do so with you in a safe, controlled environment than with a random peer. Emphasize that you will not judge or punish them for being curious, and that your door is always open for honest conversations.

In many cases, when parents are transparent about their own cannabis use and take an open, educational approach rather than a strictly prohibitive one, it creates a foundation of trust and safety. Your teen knows they can come to you with questions or for help, and that you’re a reliable, knowledgeable resource. Plus, let’s be real – the weed you have stashed away is probably way better than whatever their friends are smoking behind the bleachers.

Ultimately, the goal of these ongoing conversations is to equip your child with the information and critical thinking skills they need to make responsible decisions about cannabis, both now and in the future. By fostering open, honest dialogue and leading by example, you’re setting them up for success no matter what they choose.

Let’s face it – being a parent is tough. It’s a 24/7 job with no pay, no sick days, and a whole lot of bodily fluids. Add in the lingering social stigma around cannabis use, and it can feel like an uphill battle to be a stoner parent in a world that still largely frowns upon marijuana.

But here’s the thing: if you’re a responsible, loving, involved parent who just happens to enjoy a little green now and then, you’re doing a fantastic job. Period.

Sure, you might have to be a bit more discreet about your cannabis use than you’d like, especially around judgy PTA moms or nosy neighbors. And yes, you’ll need to be extra mindful about storing your stash safely and talking to your kids about marijuana in an age-appropriate way. But at the end of the day, if you’re showing up for your children with presence, patience, and unconditional love (even if you’re a little baked while doing it), you’re acing this whole parenting thing.

So to all the stoner mamas and papa bears out there: keep on toking and keep on rocking this child-rearing gig. Ignore the haters, trust your intuition, and know that you’re providing your kids with everything they really need.

Because when you get down to the sticky bottom line, the most important thing is that your little ones feel safe, supported, and totally adored. And if a responsible cannabis habit helps you be the best version of yourself as you navigate the wild ride of parenthood, then blaze on, my friend. You’ve got this.

CANNABIS USE AND PARENTING, READ ON…

PARENTS, SHOULD YOU SMOKE WEED IN FRONT OF YOUR KIDS?

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Did the Death of the Lazy Stoner Stereotype Push Cannabis Rescheduling Forward?

Published

8 hours ago

May 5, 2024

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lazy stoner steretype dies with legalization

The Death of the Lazy Stoner Stereotype

https://neurosciencenews.com/attention-cannabis-psychology-25994/

https://www.reddit.com/r/psychology/comments/1cdsuhj/cannabis_users_stay_motivated_lazy_stoner_myth/

For decades, the stereotype of the “lazy stoner” has been deeply ingrained in our collective unconscious, thanks to years of prohibitionist programming. This image of the unmotivated, unproductive cannabis user has become a pervasive cultural trope, perpetuated by media portrayals and anti-drug campaigns.

However, this bias not only unfairly discriminates against the countless hardworking and diligent individuals who choose to consume cannabis, but it also fails to stand up to scientific scrutiny.

A groundbreaking new study challenges the notion that chronic cannabis users are inherently lazy and unproductive.

The research, conducted by the University of Toronto and published in the journal Social Psychological and Personality Science, surveyed 260 frequent cannabis users to investigate the effects of cannabis use on their daily lives. The findings paint a far more nuanced picture of the relationship between cannabis consumption and motivation, emotional well-being, and self-regulation.

The study’s most striking revelation is that chronic cannabis users exhibit the same level of willingness to exert effort on tasks while under the influence as they do when sober. This finding directly contradicts the popular belief that cannabis use invariably leads to a loss of motivation and productivity.

Furthermore, the research found no evidence of a “weed hangover” effect, debunking the idea that cannabis users experience a decline in emotional or motivational function the day after consumption.

While the study did observe some changes in behavior among participants while they were high, such as increased impulsivity and decreased orderliness, these effects did not translate into a lack of hard work, responsibility, or focus.

In fact, the researchers found that cannabis use was associated with enhanced positive emotions like awe and gratitude, although very heavy users experienced more negative emotions both while high and while sober.

As we delve deeper into this study and its implications, it becomes clear that the lazy stoner stereotype is not only outdated but also fundamentally flawed.

By shedding light on the misconceptions surrounding cannabis use, we can begin to dismantle the stigma that has long plagued responsible, productive cannabis consumers.

The University of Toronto study, led by Professor Michael Inzlicht from the Department of Psychology, provides compelling evidence that challenges the lazy stoner stereotype. By surveying 260 chronic cannabis users, defined as those who consume cannabis at least three times a week or more, the researchers gained valuable insights into the effects of cannabis use on motivation, emotion, and self-regulation.

One of the most significant findings of the study relates to motivation. As Inzlicht explains, “We found that’s not the case — their behaviors might change a bit in the moment while they’re high, but our evidence shows they are not lazy or lacking motivation at all.”

The researchers assessed participants’ willingness to exert effort in completing a task while high and found that they were just as motivated and willing to invest effort as when they were sober. This finding directly contradicts the notion that cannabis use inevitably leads to a decrease in motivation and productivity.

The study also delved into the emotional and self-regulatory effects of cannabis use. While the researchers observed that being high led to lower levels of self-regulation, characterized by increased impulsivity and decreased orderliness, they emphasized that these changes did not translate into a lack of hard work, responsibility, or focus. As Inzlicht states, “These things can detract someone from getting stuff done, but we didn’t find it made them less hard-working, responsible or able to focus.”

Furthermore, the study revealed that chronic cannabis users experienced a boost in positive emotions, such as awe and gratitude, and a reduction in some negative emotions, like fear and anxiety, while high. However, it is important to note that very heavy users, those on the higher end of chronic use, experienced more negative emotions both while high and while sober.

The data from this study illustrates that the myth of the lazy stoner is just that—a myth. While cannabis use may indeed have a relaxing effect, it does not necessarily lead to a loss of motivation or productivity. In fact, when an individual is passionate about a particular project or activity, cannabis can be used to enhance the process, especially when tackling stressful and challenging tasks.

It is essential to recognize that the relationship between cannabis use and productivity is not black and white. As Inzlicht points out, “Our data suggests that you can be hard-working, motivated and a chronic cannabis user at the same time.” This nuanced perspective challenges the simplistic and stigmatizing view of cannabis users as unmotivated and unproductive.

By shedding light on the actual experiences of chronic cannabis users, this study contributes to a more balanced and evidence-based understanding of the effects of cannabis on daily life. It encourages us to question our preconceived notions and to approach the topic of cannabis use with a more open and objective mindset, recognizing that responsible cannabis consumption and productivity are not mutually exclusive.

As we’ve seen, the University of Toronto study challenges the long-held stereotype of the lazy, unmotivated stoner. This research is just one example of how science continues to debunk the myths and misconceptions perpetuated by cannabis prohibition. Time and time again, we are confronted with the reality that many of the alleged harms associated with cannabis use are not grounded in fact, but rather in the feelings and biases of prohibitionists.

The lazy stoner trope is a prime example of a fabrication that has been used to stigmatize and marginalize cannabis users for decades. However, as this study demonstrates, chronic cannabis users are just as capable of being motivated, hard-working, and productive as their non-using counterparts. In fact, many cannabis enthusiasts find that incorporating the plant into their lives enhances their ability to stay active, focused, and engaged in their passions.

Contrary to popular belief, most stoners enjoy being active and engaging in a wide range of activities. From hitting the gym to tackling household chores, cannabis can be a helpful tool for staying motivated and focused on the task at hand. As one participant in the study noted, “I find that a little bit of cannabis helps me get into a flow state when I’m working on a project I’m passionate about. It helps me stay creative and motivated, even when the work is challenging.”

This sentiment is echoed by countless cannabis users who have found ways to integrate the plant into their lives in a responsible and productive manner. Whether it’s using cannabis to enhance their workout routine, to spark creativity in their artistic pursuits, or simply to unwind after a long day, these individuals are living proof that the lazy stoner stereotype is a myth.

So, to all the productive stoners out there, we want to hear from you. How do you incorporate cannabis into your life in a way that supports your goals and aspirations? What activities do you enjoy while under the influence? By sharing our stories and experiences, we can continue to challenge the stigma surrounding cannabis use and paint a more accurate picture of the diverse and dynamic community of cannabis enthusiasts.

In the end, the sticky bottom line is this: cannabis use does not define a person’s character, motivation, or productivity. It is time to move beyond the outdated stereotypes and embrace a more nuanced, evidence-based understanding of the role that cannabis can play in our lives. With science on our side, we can continue to dismantle the myths of prohibition and advocate for a more just and equitable approach to cannabis policy.

DEBUNKING THE LAZY STONER STEREOTYPE, READ ON..

SCIENCE DEBUNKS THE LAZY STONER MYTH, HERE IS WHAT WE LEARNED!

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How Not to Roll a Joint : Common Blunders Beginners Make

Published

1 day ago

May 4, 2024

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how not to roll a joint

Imagine this: you’ve been introduced to the world of cannabis by a close friend in Sacramento who knows the ins and outs of rolling the perfect joint. You’ve enjoyed a few puffs here and there, basking in the friendship and relaxation it brings.

But then, a few days pass, and you find yourself craving that soothing sensation again. You decide to take matters into your own hands and roll a joint. And that’s where the trouble begins.

Rolling a joint seems like a breeze when you watch someone else do it – grind, roll, and puff, right? But when you try it yourself, it’s a whole different story. Don’t sweat it, though. This guide is here to help you go through the rocky road of joint rolling, focusing on what not to do.

Simply put, below, we’ll walk you through the common mistakes so you can enjoy that puff without the hassle.

The Grinder Grind: Avoiding the Powder Pitfall

Getting the grind right is key to a great joint. Many beginners either turn their cannabis into a fine powder or barely break it up. Both extremes are no-gos. If your grind is too fine, your joint will burn too quickly and unevenly. On the other hand, if it’s too chunky, air won’t pass through properly, making it hard to draw on the joint.

The goal is to achieve a consistency that’s neither too fine nor too chunky. Aim for small, even pieces to ensure a smooth burn.

To avoid making this mistake, use a quality grinder and turn it until you get perfect consistency. This balance ensures that your joint burns steadily without canoeing or going out. As a beginner, it might require a few trials and errors, but once you understand the right way to grind, rolling a joint will become quite easy.

The Stash Shortfall: Keep An Eye on Your Cannabis Supply

Another common mistake that newbie cannabis enthusiasts make is running low on stash, especially when rolling a joint. Just imagine: you come home tired from work, looking forward to unwinding with each soothing puff. But as you prepare, you find that you’re almost out of your favorite strain. Frustrating, right?

Well, It’s a common slip-up. That’s why it is recommended to keep tabs on how much you have left. Nevertheless, if you do find yourself short, there is no need to panic, as you can order your favorite cannabis products online.

In places like Sacramento, for instance, you can easily get flowers, pre-rolls, or extracts. Just look for Sacramento cannabis delivery– it’s super easy and convenient. You can choose from a wide variety of strains and have your selection delivered right to your doorstep.

This not only saves you a trip to the dispensary but also ensures you’re never stuck without enough cannabis to roll your next joint, enhancing your smoking experience and keeping the good times rolling.

The Loose-End Lament: Rolling Right

Stating the obvious, rolling a joint too loose or tight only results in product wastage. If it’s too loose, your cannabis might fall out, or the joint could burn too quickly because of too much airflow. You might find it hard to draw smoke through if it’s too tight.

So, what should you do? Well, the trick is to find a balance. Start by evenly distributing your ground cannabis along the crease of your rolling paper. Then, use your fingertips to gently shape the weed into a cylinder.

Next up, carefully tuck the unglued side of the paper around the cannabis, then roll it towards the glued edge. You want to moisten the adhesive strip of the rolling paper lightly. Think of it as sealing an envelope- not too wet or dry. Just enough so it sticks without tearing.

A gentle touch is important- roll it snugly but not so tight that you compress the cannabis too much. This technique ensures a smooth draw and an even burn, making your smoking experience much more enjoyable.

Remember, practice is essential. The more you roll, the better you’ll judge the right amount of tightness. Soon, rolling the perfect joint will feel like second nature.

To Sum It All Up

Rolling a joint might look simple, but there are plenty of little mistakes that can throw off the whole experience. That said, we hope this guide helps you sidestep those common pitfalls. Just keep practicing your rolling technique. Like any skill, it gets better the more you do it. Before you know it, you’ll be rolling joints smoothly and enjoying every puff.

ROLLING A SMOOTH JOINT, READ ON…

CAN YOU ROLL A JOINT WITH A DOLLAR BILL AND NOT PAPERS?

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Cannabis Makes Gym Workouts More Fun Says New Fitness Study

Published

1 day ago

May 4, 2024

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smoke weed before a workout

New Study Says Cannabis Makes Workouts More Fun

Forget Performance-Enhancing ‘Drugs’; Just Smoke Pot

Despite the well-known importance of regular exercise, not everyone looks forward to an hour at the gym, running, or any other kind of popular workouts these days.

While there are some people who willingly wake up at the break of dawn to work out, or look forward to pumping weights at the gym after a long day of work, for the rest of us, it’s nothing but a chore. But guess what? Using cannabis right before your workout can change all that. There are seasoned cannabis users who have already integrated pot into their wellness routine that can tell you, anecdotally: weed makes working out so much more fun.

And now, there are studies to prove it.

A recent study from the University of Colorado Boulder is the first to investigate how cannabis sold in legal states can change how people feel about working out. The researchers were particularly interested in common obstacles people cite for not working out, such as lack of motivation and enjoyment, pain, and other factors.

For the study, which was led by professor Angela Bryan, investigators analyzed 42 runners who were already consuming cannabis for their running workouts. They were asked to undergo a baseline session which involved the researchers documenting fitness data from the participants.

After that, the participants were then asked to go to a dispensary and purchase some flowers which were either THC or CBD dominant. Both compounds are well-known among marijuana users, though CBD is more popular for its relaxing properties while THC is famed for its high. The participants were then made to undergo a follow-up consultation which involved running on a treadmill at a moderate pace for half an hour. During this time, they were also asked questions to gauge how motivated they felt at the moment, if they were enjoying It, if the exercise felt difficult, their perception of time, and pain.

“The bottom-line finding is that cannabis before exercise seems to increase positive mood and enjoyment during exercise, whether you use THC or CBD. But THC products specifically may make exercise feel more effortful,” explains Laura Gibson, the study’s first author. Gibson is also a research fellow at the University of Colorado Boulder’s Health and Addiction: Neuroscience, Genes, and Environment (CU Change).

“We have an epidemic of sedentary lifestyle in this country, and we need new tools to try to get people to move their bodies in ways that are enjoyable,” explains Bryan. “If cannabis is one of those tools, we need to explore it, keeping in mind both the harms and benefits,” she added.

The Results

The participants all seemed to share the same sentiment about the experiment, citing more enjoyment and a positive correlation to exercise such as feeling the “runner’s high” when they ran while stoned. According to the researchers, the participants who consumed CBD experienced a more heightened sensation of positive emotions compared to those who consumed CBD. This leads them to suggest that athletes may be able to benefit greatly from consuming CBD especially since it doesn’t come with the intoxication that THC does.

“It is pretty clear from our research that cannabis is not a performance enhancing drug,’ Bryan added.

There have been other similar studies done in the past.

For one, a study in 2019 found that marijuana helps make workouts more enjoyable while reducing pain. The study, which was published in Frontiers in Public Health, was conducted through online surveys taken from around 600 individuals who lived in states where marijuana is legal. Around 80% of respondents admitted to using marijuana before going to the gym. Meanwhile, 67% of them said that they use weed before and after their workout.

The researchers found that the participants who got stoned during their workout were able to do 43 minutes more of physical activity each week, compared to the people who didn’t consume cannabis around the time of their workouts. According to the participants, marijuana helped make the workout more fun while helping boost recovery.

“There is evidence to suggest that certain cannabinoids dampen pain perception, and we also know that the receptors cannabis binds to in the brain are very similar to the receptors that are activated naturally during the runner’s high,” explains Arielle Gillman, the study’s co-author, and a former PhD student in the University of Colorado at Boulder.

Can Marijuana Really Help With Motivation?

Back in the day, weed users were accused of being lazy couch potatoes. However, we can’t deny the data we have these days; pot seems to be a driving force when it comes to motivation in general. Whether it’s to help motivate one to work out or to work harder, there’s just something in cannabis that helps.

Back in 2019, the University of Colorado published the findings of a similar study whose results showed that marijuana use makes workouts more enjoyable and even motivates individuals to work out. According to the researchers, investigating cannabis use and its impact on health including workouts “is becoming increasingly relevant as cannabis legalization continues, a situation that has been associated with increased initiation of use among adults, and increased potency of available products in legalized states.”

The investigators polled 600 cannabis consumers online, to dig deeper into the link between their athletic habits and marijuana consumption. “Results indicated that the majority (81.7%) of participants endorsed using cannabis concurrently with exercise, and those who did tended to be younger and more likely to be male,” they wrote.

“Furthermore, participants reported that cannabis use increased the amount of exercise in which they partook, and that it not only increased their enjoyment of the workout but improved their post-workout recovery,” they wrote.

Conclusion

While there’s more we need to understand when it comes to cannabis use and how it helps motivation, these are certainly fascinating findings that contract the stoner stereotypes perpetuated by the war on drugs. It’s certain that when used right for your specific needs, cannabis can be a safe, and all-natural lifestyle enhancer, and definitely a tool that can help you build healthier habits.