Written by alber » Updated on: June 23rd, 2025
If you’re considering smoking marijuana for the first time, you’re likely curious about what the experience will be like. It’s normal to have questions about how it will affect your body and mind, especially if you’ve never tried cannabis before. Whether you’ve heard about the benefits or just want to experience it for yourself, it’s important to approach your first time with the right expectations and knowledge.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect the first time smoking marijuana and offer helpful tips to make the experience enjoyable and safe.
The first time smoking marijuana is different for everyone. Your experience will depend on several factors, such as the strain you choose, how much you consume, your body’s tolerance, and your mental state. Here’s what most first-time users can expect.
When you smoke marijuana, the effects usually begin within minutes. Unlike edibles, which can take longer to kick in, smoking marijuana provides a quicker onset, so you'll feel its effects almost immediately. The high can last for a couple of hours, depending on the strain and your tolerance.
At first, you might feel a sense of euphoria, relaxation, or even a little giggly. Many first-time users also experience a heightened sense of awareness, making colors seem more vibrant or sounds more intense. These are normal effects and are part of the recreational side of cannabis use.
Tip: Start with just a small amount. If you’re new to marijuana, consuming too much at once can lead to unwanted side effects, such as dizziness, paranoia, or nausea.
The effects of marijuana vary based on the strain. Some strains are more relaxing, while others can make you feel energized. For example, Indica strains are known for their relaxing and sedative effects, which are great for chilling out. Sativa strains, on the other hand, tend to be more uplifting and energetic, making them ideal for social activities or creative tasks.
Tip: If you're looking for a relaxing experience, consider trying an indica-dominant strain. For something more energizing, go for a sativa or a hybrid strain.
A common side effect of smoking marijuana is dry mouth, often referred to as “cottonmouth.” You might also notice that your eyes become red and bloodshot. These effects are temporary and will wear off as the marijuana’s effects subside. It’s helpful to have a bottle of water nearby to stay hydrated and alleviate dry mouth.
Tip: Keep eye drops on hand to help reduce redness, and sip water frequently to stay hydrated and ease the cottonmouth.
One of the most noticeable effects of marijuana is a change in the way you perceive time. You may find that time seems to move slower, or you might lose track of how much time has passed. This is a common effect, especially for first-time users.
Tip: If you’re in an unfamiliar setting, make sure to have a watch or phone nearby to check the time and prevent any disorientation.
While marijuana can provide a relaxing experience for many, it can also induce anxiety or paranoia, especially for first-time users. This is more likely to happen if you consume too much, or if you’re feeling nervous or stressed before you smoke. It’s important to stay in a comfortable, familiar environment and go slow to avoid these negative side effects.
Tip: If you begin to feel anxious or paranoid, try to relax in a quiet space. Focus on your breathing, and remind yourself that the effects are temporary. It can also help to have a trusted friend with you for support.
Many marijuana users experience an increase in appetite, commonly referred to as “the munchies.” After smoking, you might find yourself craving snacks or food. While this can be fun if you’re with friends, it’s important to keep healthy snacks on hand to avoid overeating or indulging in unhealthy foods.
Tip: Stock up on your favorite healthy snacks before smoking to satisfy your cravings and avoid junk food.
One of the most fun effects of marijuana for first-time users is its ability to enhance sensory perception. Sounds, colors, and textures may appear more vivid or interesting, which is why some people enjoy listening to music or watching movies while high. This sensory enhancement can also make activities like painting, cooking, or even chatting with friends more enjoyable.
Tip: Try engaging in activities you love, such as listening to music, watching a funny show, or doing some creative work to enhance your experience.
Now that you know what to expect the first time you smoke marijuana, here are some additional tips to help you have a smooth and enjoyable experience.
As a first-time user, it’s important to start with a small amount of marijuana to gauge how your body reacts. It’s better to start with a little and gradually increase your intake if needed. You can always take more, but you can’t take less if you’ve overdone it.
Tip: Take one or two puffs and wait for about 15-20 minutes to assess how you feel before deciding whether to smoke more.
The type of marijuana strain you choose will significantly impact your experience. If you want to relax and unwind, choose an indica or an indica-dominant hybrid strain. If you want to feel energized or creative, opt for a sativa or a sativa-dominant hybrid. Your goals for the session—whether it’s relaxation, creativity, or energy—should guide your strain choice.
Tip: If you're unsure about which strain to choose, ask the budtender at your local dispensary for advice based on your preferences.
The environment in which you consume cannabis can have a big impact on your experience. For your first time, choose a familiar, comfortable space where you can relax. It’s important to be around people you trust, and avoid environments that could make you feel anxious or out of place.
Tip: Avoid public places or crowded areas for your first experience. Instead, try to stay at home or at a friend’s house.
As mentioned earlier, dry mouth and increased appetite are common side effects. Be prepared by keeping water and snacks nearby. This will help you stay hydrated and satisfy any cravings you may have.
Tip: Have a variety of snacks, both sweet and savory, on hand to enjoy during your session.
Mixing marijuana with alcohol can intensify the effects of both substances and may lead to feelings of nausea or dizziness. If you’re new to cannabis, it’s best to avoid drinking alcohol while smoking for the first time. This will allow you to experience the effects of marijuana on its own and avoid any negative side effects.
Tip: Stick to one substance at a time, especially if you’re new to cannabis. You can always try mixing them at a later time when you're more familiar with the effects of both.
Finally, remember that cannabis is meant to be enjoyable. Don't stress about getting everything right—just relax and let yourself enjoy the moment. Whether you’re lounging on the couch, listening to music, or having a conversation with friends, cannabis is there to enhance the experience, not to rush or overwhelm you.
Tip: Take it easy. If you’re feeling too high, take a break, drink some water, and rest until you feel more comfortable.
Smoking marijuana for the first time can be a fun and eye-opening experience. By starting with the right expectations and following these helpful tips, you can ensure that your first time is enjoyable and stress-free. Remember to go slow, choose the right strain, and stay in a comfortable environment. With these strategies, you'll be able to have a positive experience and make the most of your first time smoking marijuana.
READ: Happy smoking, and enjoy your first cannabis experience responsibly!
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