Savoring sweater weather: cannabis for cold winter nights
Most of the United States is experiencing what lovers of SNL skit starring Maya Rudolph and Amy Poehler would call “sweddah whethah.” Those without a regional accent might refer to the season as sweater weather or autumn. No matter what you call it, in most locales, the days are getting colder and shorter.
Those who worship the quality of hygge, a Danish word that embodies coziness that brings contentment, are rejoicing. Blankets and wool socks are coming out of storage, candles are getting lit, and most are soaking in the cozy ambiance. As for everyone who yearns for hot summer sun and sandals, cannabis could ease the shift into a fall headspace. Let’s talk about “sweddah whethah” weed.
Sweater weather weed refers to products, strains, and sesh vibes that feel cozy and comfy–perfect for a hygge moment. These are the GreenState-approved cannabis products to celebrate the cold turn of the seasons.
Homey libations
The cannabis drinks market is growing by the minute, and with that comes product options. This makes it easy to play with infused drinks recipes at home, like warm mulled cider and autumnal spritzers rather than summery liquid marijuana.
Warm cider is possibly best made with drink powders like Brelixi, which comes in 20mg THC yuzu turmeric lemonade or 30mg CBD elderberry hibiscus lemonade. The water soluble solution can dissolve into a batch of hot spiced cider or a pumpkin spice latte and add a little extra flavoring. Take the flavor of the powder into account when shopping.
Spritzers are fun to play with because there is so much room for innovation. A traditional spritzer is made with white wine and seltzer, sometimes flavored syrups or shrubs are added. Apple cider spritzers, like ayrloom cider in New York, can be mixed with ginger beer for a delicious cannabis spritzer.
These are just a few ideas, but with the amount of cannabis drinks available now, there are so many possibilities.
Cannabis fare for cooler weather
The return of cool winds and gloomy days is the perfect time for classic home-baked cannabis edibles like brownie and chocolate chip cookies. Switch it up and add some holiday spice by opting for a ginger molasses cookie or peppermint brownie. Eat them warm out of the oven (or warmed up in the oven) for the ultimate winter treat.
Not all of the edible options are sweet, either. Brands like It’s All About Choices in California have unique infused products that include powdered mashed potatoes, soup mixes, and barbecue sauce for hearty cannabis edibles.
Those who would rather buy than cook or bake with an at-home infuser would enjoy Big Pete’s Cinnamon Sugar Cookies (MA), Verdelux Apple Cider Bon Bombs (WA), or in Arizona, heading to the Mint Cafe and see what they’re cooking up fresh.
Gummies are good year round, but sweater weather calls for more nourishing infused fare. Reach for savory edibles, holiday-spiced flavors, and other novel products when the temps drop.
Strains that inspire chill vibes
Everyone has a unique endocannabinoid system that thirsts for its own mix of cannabis compounds. That said, there are some strains that get most people in the mood to sit back and relax.
On the sativa end of the spectrum are varieties like Moby Dick, which crosses White Widow and Haze, which evoke a silliness that is perfect for watching cannabis cartoons under a heavy-knit blanket or snuggling up by the fire with a friend. Leave strains like Durban Poison in the weed kit, they’d be better for cleaning the kitchen.
When choosing a heavier cannabis strain for a cozy night in, opt for one that isn’t too debilitating–unless falling asleep is the goal. Varieties like Slurricane, Animal Cookies, and Blueberry Muffin are all great comfy strains that may not put you to sleep.
Setting the stage for a cozy sesh
Creating the right space can enhance the urge to snuggle into the couch. High beat per minute (BPM) music is a no-go. Instead, think R&B, low-fi beats, singer-songwriter ambiance. Candles and lamp lighting are also preferred to overhead lighting.
As for seating, offer options. A couch for the convivial crowd and something more insular, like an armchair or floor cushion, for those who like space, ensures everyone is at ease. Have blankets readily available for anyone who might get a chill.
When it comes to what kind of consumption method fits this setting, it relies on who is there. A joint might feel like the coziest thing to puff on a winter evening for those who don’t have an aversion to smoke. Others might be more apt to reach for a Puffco so the room doesn’t get stale. The Storz & Bickel Volcano is also an excellent fit for the smoke-free flower crowd. This is something to consider on a sesh-by-sesh basis.
The sun is setting earlier each night and Halloween excitement is shifting into holiday preparations, sweater weather is upon us. When it comes to how you choose to enjoy cannabis, that means it’s time for seasonal beverages, selecting the right strain, and setting up the sesh spot just right. With all this combined, anyone can bring in the hygge season with a smile.