Avoiding the Icarus Effect: Tips for a Balanced Cannabis Experience

The story of the boy who flew too close to the sun is one that has been passed down for generations. Icarus, the young and ambitious son of Daedalus, was given wings made of feathers and wax by his father in an attempt to escape from their imprisonment on the island of Crete.

However, despite his father's warnings not to fly too high or too low, Icarus becomes enamoured by the feeling of flying high in the sky and ignores his father's advice. As he flies closer and closer to the sun, the wax on his wings begins to melt, causing him to fall from the sky and plummet into the sea below.

The story of Icarus can be seen as a metaphor for many aspects of life, from highlighting the importance of balance and moderation in our actions to reminding us of the consequences of ignoring warnings and advice. And when it comes to consuming cannabis, finding that balance is key.

If you're an experienced cannabis user, you may have had the experience of "greening out" or feeling too high at some point. Or if you're new to cannabis, you may be wondering how to avoid this potential scenario.

Whatever the case may be, it's important to know that there are ways to mitigate the effects of consuming too much cannabis so you won't have to ride out a bad high. No one wants to be keeled over their toilet or feeling paranoid and anxious for hours on end.

So, if you're ready to soar high but want to avoid crashing and burning, keep reading to learn some helpful tips for finding that perfect balance.

 

Strategies for a smooth cannabis experience

The term "greening out" is often used to describe the feeling of consuming too much cannabis. Although not life-threatening, it can be a highly unpleasant experience. Symptoms include increased heart rate, anxiety, dizziness, paranoia, nausea, vomiting, and disorientation. These symptoms are caused by the THC in cannabis, which is responsible for its psychoactive effects.

To avoid "greening out" and getting too high, follow these tips to ensure a more manageable and enjoyable high:

Start low and go slow: Even after taking a smaller dose, wait at least an hour before consuming more edibles or 15 minutes between joint hits to see how it affects you.

Opt for a high-CBD strain: Strains with a higher CBD-to-THC ratio can provide a more balanced experience, as CBD can counteract some of the intoxicating effects of THC.

Avoid alcohol: Mixing cannabis with alcohol can intensify the effects and lead to a bad high. It's best to avoid consuming them together.

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after consuming cannabis to stay hydrated and potentially lessen the intensity of a high.

Know your limits: Be aware of your personal tolerance and avoid trying to keep up with others who may have a higher tolerance.

Avoid mixing substances: Refrain from combining cannabis with other substances that can amplify its effects, such as caffeine or other drugs.

Remember, it's always important to use cannabis responsibly and in moderation. If you do find yourself feeling too high, don't panic - the next set of tips can help you come down to Earth.

 

What to do when you’re too high

So, you've consumed a bit too much cannabis and are feeling overwhelmed - what now? These 9 tips will help you regain control and come down from a high that's too intense.

Black pepper: Chewing on or smelling black peppercorns may help reduce anxiety and paranoia due to the terpene caryophyllene, which can help to soothe and calm the mind.

Eat or smell lemons: Lemons contain limonene, a terpene that can help reduce stress and anxiety associated with being too high.

Consume pine nuts: Pine nuts contain pinene, a terpene that may promote mental clarity and help counteract some of THC's effects.

Time: The most effective way to sober up is to wait it out. The effects of cannabis will eventually wear off, and you'll start to feel more like yourself again.

Eat a snack: Consuming food, especially those rich in carbohydrates, can help mitigate the effects of THC.

Distraction: Engage in activities that can distract you, such as watching a light TV show, listening to music, or doing a simple task like colouring.

Relaxation techniques: Practice deep breathing exercises, meditation, or other relaxation techniques to calm your mind and body.

Cold shower: Studies have shown that a cold shower can help break dissociative feelings due to anxiety, which can often be a side effect of consuming too much cannabis.

Fresh air: Going outside for fresh air can help clear your mind and reduce feelings of anxiety or paranoia. Take a walk, do some light exercise, or just sit in nature for a bit.

 

Reflections on Icarus and cannabis use

When Icarus flew too close to the sun, his wings melted and he fell back down to Earth. Similarly, when we get too high, our minds and bodies can feel overwhelmed and out of control. But just like Icarus, we have the power to regain control and find balance again.

While there is no surefire way to sober up from being too high, the techniques provided may help you feel more calm and grounded. Your best bet is to avoid over-consuming cannabis in the first place but if you find yourself feeling too high, just know that it will pass.

Remember to stay hydrated, get some rest, and try some of these methods to help ease any unwanted effects. Like Icarus, we can learn to use our wings (or in this case, cannabis) responsibly and fly within our limits. Safe journey!

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