The concept of “wake and bake” — starting your day with cannabis — has become increasingly popular in certain circles. While this lifestyle may seem appealing to some, it’s essential to understand the motivations behind it and the potential effects on mental and physical health.
Why People Wake and Bake
Many who practice the wake-and-bake lifestyle report using cannabis as a way to manage anxiety, stress, or chronic pain right from the start of the day. For these individuals, the immediate effects of cannabis can help them cope with the pressures of daily life. Some users also claim that it enhances creativity, making it easier to tackle creative tasks with a fresh perspective. This can be particularly appealing to those in creative fields who view cannabis as a tool to break through mental barriers or stimulate novel ideas.
Moreover, habitual cannabis users often find that a morning session helps in managing withdrawal symptoms that may arise overnight. The idea is to achieve a sense of normalcy or equilibrium before starting the day’s activities.
The Downside of Wake and Bake
However, this lifestyle comes with significant downsides. Regular morning cannabis use can lead to tolerance, where the user requires increasingly larger doses to achieve the same effects. Over time, this can lead to dependence, making it challenging to function without cannabis. Additionally, starting the day with cannabis may impair cognitive function, making it difficult to concentrate on tasks that require focus and critical thinking.
There’s also the social and psychological aspect to consider. Relying on cannabis to navigate everyday challenges might prevent individuals from developing healthier coping mechanisms. Furthermore, the social stigma attached to early-morning cannabis use could lead to isolation or strain relationships with those who don’t share the same lifestyle.
Conclusion
While the wake-and-bake lifestyle may offer short-term benefits for some, it’s crucial to weigh these against the potential long-term consequences. Those considering this approach should be mindful of the risks, including dependency and cognitive impairment, and explore alternative strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and creative blocks. Balancing the occasional use of cannabis with other, healthier coping mechanisms might offer a more sustainable path to well-being.
