The effects of marijuana are often described in terms such as “high” and “stoned”. Sometimes we use them without making any distinction, whether it is the ‘high’ of the brain or the ‘stoned’ numbness of the body. In some cases, it is as good a way as any to describe the experience of confusion.
Apparently this unscientific approach fails to distinguish the real differences between “high” and “stoned” because they are used to describe the same thing.
Let us, therefore, take a closer look at these two terms in order to better understand their meaning.
FEELINGS CAUSED BY BEING “STONED”
In other words, we could use the term “high” to define those stimulating sensations that can provide an extra burst of energy, both physically and mentally. We feel more “pumped up”, and the adrenaline rushing through our body encourages us to dance, walk or do some other physical activity.
The so-called ‘high’ from cannabis not only stimulates the body, making it more reactive but also creates a surge of energy that has a particular impact on the mental level. The literature on cannabis describes this feeling as a ‘cerebral high’. This effect usually stimulates creativity and imagination, giving rise to new ideas and thoughts. In such cases, we notice ourselves more optimistic and confident, giving less weight to worry. “Haight can also relieve pain, helping us to forget any discomfort it causes.
FEELINGS UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF “STONES”
The sensations we experience during a “stoned” exposure are completely different from those described for a “high”. Instead of feeling energised and stimulated, one is overwhelmed by a pleasant and all-round relaxing sensation.
The best example to describe the “stoned” feeling is the “couch-lock” effect. This image reflects quite well what a person can feel when heavily intoxicated. In this case, the consumer tends to sink into a lethargic state, almost paralysed in a comfortable chair or armchair. Some people like to be ‘stuck’ on a sofa without the strength to move, others do not. Here is the essential difference between ‘intoxicating’ and ‘intoxicated’. “In the case of ‘stoned’, the aim is to relax, without any real need to interact with others, but simply to enjoy the calming and enveloping effects of the herb.
When using cannabis, the sensations experienced in the first moments are almost always attributable to the term ‘high’. However, this can change.
MORE ABOUT THIS
Many of us enjoy both effects of cannabis, looking for herbs that can give us both a high and a body stone. At certain times we may want to relax while stimulating our creativity to carry out normal daily activities with an extra burst of energy. Similarly, we may want to relax without engaging in violent ‘couch locking, simply to sink into a pleasant state of ‘mind-meld.
This is why cannabis breeders are constantly looking for genetic material that can be used to create new strains (so-called hybrids) that can combine both the high and the stoned effect in one plant. A strain of cannabis can cause more brain and less body sensations, and vice versa, or produce a completely balanced effect. In the latter case, you will be able to appreciate both brain and body effects, but one will not override the other.
Many smokers prefer Sativa strains during the day, and more relaxing Indica strains in the evening. But the only way to know what effect a strain can have on your body is to try it. Do your research, and don’t be afraid to experiment. However it happens, you can always take off!