What to Do After Greening Out: When Your Salad Dreams Turn into Nightmares
Greening out—a term that might sound like a trendy new diet or a fresh approach to environmentalism—is actually a slang phrase used to describe the unpleasant experience of overconsuming cannabis. Whether you’re a seasoned user or a curious newbie, greening out can happen to anyone. It’s that moment when the euphoria takes a sharp turn into nausea, dizziness, and a general sense of “I’ve made a huge mistake.” But fear not! This article will guide you through the steps to recover gracefully and even laugh about it later. Let’s dive into the green abyss and emerge wiser.
1. Acknowledge the Situation
The first step to recovery is acceptance. You’ve greened out. It happens. Maybe you underestimated the potency of that edible, or perhaps you thought you could handle “just one more hit.” Whatever the reason, you’re now in the thick of it. Take a deep breath and remind yourself that this is temporary. Panicking will only make things worse, so channel your inner zen master and accept your current state.
2. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Water is your best friend during a green-out. Cannabis can cause dehydration, which exacerbates symptoms like dizziness and dry mouth. Sip on water slowly—don’t chug it, as that might make you feel worse. If you’re feeling fancy, add a slice of lemon or cucumber for a spa-like experience. Herbal teas, like chamomile or peppermint, can also help soothe your stomach and calm your nerves.
3. Find a Comfortable Space
Your environment plays a huge role in how you feel. If you’re in a loud, chaotic setting, it’s time to relocate. Find a quiet, comfortable space where you can relax. Dim the lights, grab a cozy blanket, and settle in. If you’re with friends, let them know you need a moment to yourself. A change of scenery can work wonders for your mental state.
4. Distract Yourself
Sometimes, the best way to deal with a green-out is to take your mind off it. Put on your favorite movie, listen to calming music, or engage in a light activity like coloring or journaling. Avoid anything too stimulating, like horror movies or intense video games, as they might heighten your anxiety. The goal is to gently redirect your focus until the effects wear off.
5. Snack Smartly
While munchies are a common side effect of cannabis, greening out can make eating feel like a daunting task. If you’re up for it, opt for light, easy-to-digest snacks like crackers, toast, or fruit. Avoid heavy, greasy foods that could upset your stomach further. A small piece of dark chocolate might also help boost your mood without overwhelming your system.
6. Practice Grounding Techniques
If you’re feeling disconnected or anxious, grounding techniques can help bring you back to reality. Try the 5-4-3-2-1 method: identify five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. This simple exercise can help anchor you in the present moment and reduce feelings of panic.
7. Get Some Fresh Air
If you’re feeling up to it, step outside for some fresh air. A gentle breeze and a change of scenery can do wonders for your mental state. Just be sure to stay safe—don’t wander too far or attempt anything strenuous. A short walk around the block or a few minutes sitting on a bench can help clear your head.
8. Lean on Your Support System
If you’re with friends or loved ones, don’t hesitate to let them know how you’re feeling. A trusted companion can provide reassurance, fetch you water, or simply sit with you until you feel better. If you’re alone, consider reaching out to someone via text or phone call. Sometimes, just hearing a familiar voice can make all the difference.
9. Rest and Recover
Once the worst of the green-out has passed, your body will likely need some rest. Take a nap or go to bed early if it’s nighttime. Sleep is one of the best ways to reset your system and wake up feeling refreshed. If you’re not ready to sleep, try lying down with your eyes closed and focusing on your breathing.
10. Reflect and Learn
After the experience, take some time to reflect on what happened. Did you consume too much too quickly? Was the strain or edible stronger than you expected? Use this as a learning opportunity to better understand your limits and make more informed choices in the future. Remember, greening out doesn’t mean you’re a failure—it’s just a bump in the road.
11. Consider CBD
If you’re still feeling uneasy, consider taking a small dose of CBD. Unlike THC, CBD is non-intoxicating and can help counteract some of the negative effects of a green-out, such as anxiety and paranoia. Keep some CBD oil or gummies on hand for situations like this.
12. Laugh It Off
Once you’re feeling better, try to find the humor in the situation. Greening out might feel like a disaster in the moment, but it’s often a funny story to tell later. Share your experience with friends (if you’re comfortable) and laugh about the absurdity of it all. After all, life is about learning and laughing, even when things don’t go as planned.
FAQs
Q: How long does a green-out last?
A: The duration of a green-out varies depending on factors like dosage, tolerance, and metabolism. Most symptoms subside within a few hours, but it can take up to a full day to feel completely normal again.
Q: Can greening out cause long-term harm?
A: No, greening out is not harmful in the long term. It’s an uncomfortable but temporary experience. However, if you have underlying health conditions or experience severe symptoms, it’s always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.
Q: How can I prevent greening out in the future?
A: Start with low doses, especially if you’re trying a new product or strain. Wait at least an hour before consuming more, as edibles can take time to take effect. Know your limits and listen to your body.
Q: Is it safe to drive after greening out?
A: Absolutely not. Cannabis impairs your ability to drive safely, and greening out can make you even more disoriented. Always wait until you’re completely sober before getting behind the wheel.
Q: Can greening out happen with CBD?
A: No, CBD does not produce the intoxicating effects associated with THC, so it’s unlikely to cause a green-out. However, consuming too much CBD might make you feel drowsy or lethargic.