Ever wondered why some cannabis strains leave you feeling euphoric and mentally stimulated, while others relax your body and soothe your pains?
This distinction is often described as the difference between a “head high” and a “body high.”
Each type of high caters to different recreational and medicinal needs, influencing everything from your mood to physical sensations.
In this article, we’ll delve into the unique characteristics of head highs and body highs. That way you’ll understand how each affects your experience with cannabis.
What is a head high?
The experience of a “head high” is primarily cerebral, affecting your mental state more than your physical senses.
It’s often associated with Sativa strains of cannabis, known for their uplifting and energizing effects.
Users report enhanced creativity, focus, and sociability while under the influence of a head high.
The sensation is likened to a feeling of euphoria, where thoughts seem to flow freely and ideas seem brighter.
It’s an ideal state for those seeking to engage in creative pursuits or social interactions.
However, it’s worth noting that everyone’s experience with a head high can vary depending on factors such as the specific strain used, personal tolerance levels, and overall mental health.
What is a body high?
The sensation commonly referred to as a “body high” is quite the opposite of a head high.
This effect is predominantly physical and is often linked to the consumption of Indica strains of cannabis.
A body high can make you feel relaxed, calm, and even a bit sluggish.
It’s not uncommon for users to experience an increased sense of physical awareness, where sensations like touch and taste are heightened.
This type of high is typically sought after for its potential therapeutic benefits such as pain relief, anxiety reduction, and sleep enhancement.
As with a head high, experiences can vary based on the strain used, personal tolerance, and overall physical health.
Did you know? The relaxation effect is due to the presence of cannabinoids, which interact with your nervous system, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.
Therefore, a body high can be the perfect end to a long day or a great companion for a chill night in.
Choosing between a head-high and a body-high
Your preference for a head high or a body high depends largely on what you’re seeking from your cannabis experience.
If you’re looking to spark creativity, improve focus, or enhance social interactions, you might gravitate towards strains that induce a head high.
Conversely, if relaxation, pain relief, or sleep enhancement are your goals, strains that offer a body high might be more suitable.
For instance, if you’re planning a social gathering, a strain that promotes a head high could stimulate lively conversations and creative activities.
On the other hand, if you’re winding down after a long day or seeking relief from physical discomfort, a strain inducing a body high could provide the relaxation and calmness you need.
Ultimately, it’s about personal preference and understanding how different strains impact your mind and body.
Experimentation may be necessary to find what best suits your needs and preferences.
3 factors that affect your high
While you’ve now gained insight into the key differences between a head high and a body high, it’s important to acknowledge that these experiences can be influenced by various factors.
These factors can modify the intensity and duration of your high, and include aspects such as dosage, method of consumption, and even your personal tolerance level.
For example, if you’re new to cannabis, your body might react differently compared to a more regular user.
Similarly, consuming cannabis through edibles can lead to a more intense and longer-lasting high compared to smoking or vaping.
So, remember these 3 factors that affect your high experience:
- Dosage: The amount of cannabis you consume directly affects the intensity of your high. Higher doses can lead to more intense effects.
- Method of consumption: How you consume cannabis (smoking, vaping, edibles, etc) can influence the onset and duration of the high.
- Tolerance: Regular users may require higher doses to achieve the same effects as beginners due to built-up tolerance.
Being aware of these factors can help you better manage your cannabis experience and achieve your desired effects.
How to choose the right strain
So, now that you’ve understood the differences between a head high and a body high, you might be wondering how to choose the right strain for you.
After all, with the numerous strains available, it can be quite overwhelming to make a decision.
Firstly, it’s important to identify what you’re seeking from your cannabis experience.
If you’re looking to uplift your mood, boost creativity, or alleviate symptoms of depression or fatigue, then strains inducing a head high might be more suitable.
On the other hand, if relaxation, pain relief or improving sleep is your goal, then opt for strains that typically induce a body high.
Remember, each strain comes with its unique blend of cannabinoids and terpenes that contribute to its specific effects. So it’s not just about THC and CBD.
Other factors like the terpene profile of the strain can also impact your experience.
- Limonene, for instance, is known for its mood-elevating properties.
- Myrcene has sedative effects and is usually present in Indica strains that induce a body high.
Researching different strains and their profiles can be extremely helpful. But ultimately, nothing beats personal experience. So don’t be afraid to experiment until you find what suits you best.
Responsible consumption
Having covered the nuts and bolts of head highs and body highs, it’s crucial to touch upon responsible consumption.
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of exploring different strains and effects. But let’s remember that responsible use is the key to a positive cannabis experience.
Trust me, we’ve all been there, eager to dive into the world of cannabis.
But it’s essential to start slow, especially if you’re new. Begin with smaller doses and gradually increase as you become more comfortable and familiar with the effects.
Moreover, always listen to your body. Every individual responds differently to cannabis, and what works for one person may not work for another. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to take a step back.
Finally, while cannabis can offer numerous benefits, it is not a cure-all. It should be used as part of a balanced lifestyle and not as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.
And don’t forget to always consult with a healthcare professional if you have any health concerns or are on medication.
