Risks and benefits of Waking & Baking

The concept of “wake and bake” – starting the day with cannabis – is gaining popularity in certain circles. While this lifestyle may seem attractive to some, it is important to understand the motivations behind it and the potential impact on mental and physical health.

Why people wake up and bake

Many who practice the wake-and-bake lifestyle report using cannabis as a way to manage anxiety, stress, or chronic pain right at the start of the day. For these individuals, the immediate effects of cannabis can help them deal with the pressures of daily life. Some users also claim that it increases creativity, making it easier to approach creative tasks with a fresh perspective. This may be particularly appealing to those in creative fields who see cannabis as a way to break through mental barriers or stimulate new ideas.

Additionally, regular cannabis users often find that a morning session helps manage withdrawal symptoms that may occur overnight. The idea is to achieve a sense of normalcy or balance before beginning the day's activities.

The dark side of Wake and Bake

However, this lifestyle comes with significant drawbacks. Regular cannabis use in the morning can lead to tolerance, meaning the user needs increasingly higher doses to achieve the same effect. Over time, this can lead to dependence, making it difficult to function without cannabis. In addition, starting the day with cannabis can impair cognitive function, making it difficult to focus on tasks that require concentration and critical thinking.

The social and psychological aspect must also be considered. Relying on cannabis to deal with everyday challenges could prevent people from developing healthier coping mechanisms. In addition, the social stigma associated with early morning cannabis use could lead to isolation or strain relationships with people who do not share the same lifestyle.

Diploma

While the wake-and-bake lifestyle may offer short-term benefits for some, it's important to weigh these against the potential long-term consequences. Those considering this approach should be aware of the risks, including dependence and cognitive impairment, and explore alternative strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and creative blocks. Balancing occasional cannabis use with other, healthier coping mechanisms may offer a more sustainable path to wellness.