With more states legalizing the use of recreational marijuana, there are now more cannabis users than ever before. Recent statistics show that there are about 48 million marijuana users in America.

One type of cannabis roll that’s popular among weed users is the joint. Some weed users also prefer to smoke a blunt or a spliff.

Today, we’ll focus exclusively on marijuana joints. Here are our four top tips on how to smoke a joint, so you get the best experience.

Start Small

When you smoke a joint, it’s always better to start small and smoke less than to smoke too much and have a bad time.

If you are new to smoking, we recommend taking one or two hits from the marijuana joint and waiting at least 30 minutes before taking any more. From there, you can always take more if you feel like you can handle it.

Note that how much you smoke will affect how long the high lasts. If you smoke a lot, the high will last for a longer period of time.

The good news is that the risk of addiction is considerably lower with marijuana. Only 1 in 10 marijuana users become addicts.

Choose the Right Strain

The type of weed you smoke will also have an effect on how long the high lasts. For example, Indica strains typically produce a more mellow high that is perfect for relaxing at home, as this cannabis glossary shows.

On the other hand, Sativa strains tend to provide a more uplifting and energetic high that is great for social situations.

If you are not sure what kind of strain you are smoking, be sure to ask the person who sold it to you. They should be able to tell you more about the effects of the particular strain.

Use a Filter

If you are smoking a joint with tobacco, it is important to use a filter. Filters help to remove some of the tar and other harmful chemicals from the smoke.

Not only will this make the joint less harsh on your throat, but it will also make the high last longer.

There are a variety of filters that you can use, such as paper clips or even coffee filters. Be sure to experiment and find the filter that works best for you.

Don’t Hold Your Breath

The next tip on how to smoke weed is to remember not to hold your breath. Holding your breath only makes the smoke harsher on your lungs and throat.

Instead, take small sips of the smoke and exhale slowly. This will help you enjoy the experience more and avoid coughing fits.

Consider Health Risks

There are many different ways to consume cannabis. Of them, smoking and vaping aren’t the most healthy.

According to the American Lung Association, cannabis smoke inhalation and even secondhand cannabis smoke inhalation can cause damage to the lungs that can lead to chronic cough, acute bronchitis, and other respiratory disorders.

To avoid lung damage, consider forms of cannabis consumption that don’t involve smoking, such as tinctures and edibles.

Know You Know How to Smoke a Joint Like a Pro

Knowing how to smoke a joint is the first step to enjoying your weed. The good news is that anyone can master this process if they set their hearts on it.

Just remember to relax and take it slow. Before you know it, you’ll be a pro.

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June Potter wrote this article on behalf of FreeUp. FreeUp is the fastest-growing freelance marketplace in the US. FreeUp only accepts the top 1% of freelance applicants. Click here to get access to the top freelancers in the world.    

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