Everyone deserves a moment outside, either by themselves or with friends, to take in the beauty and serenity of nature. As summer approaches in the Ocean State, it is the perfect time to take advantage of all the perks that come with living here and get outdoors to your favorite spot to smoke a joint or enjoy an edible. Anyone who likes to partake in cannabis outdoors has their favorite trail to hike or that perfect spot by the beach where they can light up and kick back. I know I have mine, by the ocean, in Narragansett, where I can stimulate my mind by gazing out at the sea and smoking a freshly rolled sativa. Once you take that first hit, that inhale and exhale, you really begin to become one with the environment. At that moment, the positive holistic effects of smoking in nature begin to set in. Whether you are listening to the waves crashing against the rocks, staring up at the mountains, or on a trail overcome by colorful flowers, you will notice your stress levels beginning to reduce. As those stress levels reduce, your thoughts will slow down, and you will begin gaining mental clarity. Cannabis has become legal in 36 states, 24 of which have legalized it recreationally, including RI. Lucky us! Considering the symbiotic relationship between cannabis and nature, it only makes sense that many local wellness centers and retreats are now offering services using THC & CBD, while also incorporating outdoor services and nature walks.
The profound effects of using cannabis while being in nature are obvious to anyone who has used it. With the everyday grind of life, using this medicine as a tool to help you wash away the day and relax is a great resource. As a society we have become attached to our screens and are constantly distracted by social media, being bombarded with ads, and going down IG and YouTube rabbit holes by watching hours of videos and wondering where the time went. It happens to me as well. I get it! Take a minute, imagine yourself sitting outside at your favorite location, or even just in your backyard with no technology and some cannabis. Think about the freedom that offers, and the feeling you have had in the past when you had a moment like this to yourself. In that moment, as your mind clears and the colors and sounds of the outdoors become more vivid, you will notice a wave of peace come over you. If there has been a decision you have been struggling with, a vacation you are trying to plan, or you just need a moment, you will feel that all those things will become easier, and your decision-making process will happen on its own. If we are taking in all the beauty that nature has to offer, the enhancement of physical health is immense. Being outside and letting your body absorb the sunshine and vitamin D improves not only mental health, but also has positive effects on your immune system, and can lower blood pressure. Just be sure to apply sunscreen. By being outside you are nourishing your mind, body, and soul. Get outside. Indulge in some cannabis and stay wavy! •
