Mindful Mary Jane

MINDFUL MARY JANE

Photo by Yash Lucid

Author: Tash van der Schyff

The mindful use of cannabis is a subject I believe is not spoken about enough.
Sure, we understand and acknowledge the incredible healing properties that the plant offers. The medical benefits have been proven consistently, but, are you using it intentionally as well?

As a mindfulness practitioner, I practise being conscious of everything around me in the present moment, especially my cannabis use. Be it recreational smoking, ritual usage or medically, I am fully aware of when, why and what I am using.

Photo by Elsa Olofsson

Here's some easy ways you can roll with intention:

When are you using cannabis - Your frame of mind.
It is important to be aware of what you are thinking about when using this powerful plant. Gently remind yourself to be more conscious of your thought patterns while using weed. Journal work helps with this as it records your feelings and helps you establish patterns.
A positive frame of mind will drastically enhance your experience.
Why - What is your intention? Know what you want out of this experience.
Are you just getting high? Are you numbing pain?
Most recreational smokers use Cannabis to ease off after a hard day. What they don't realise is that without grounding or transmuting the energy after a long work day, you are ultimately just processing it back into your body when smoking.
What - Know what you're putting in your body.
Strain awareness is a subject I am passionate about. Knowing what strains work for you and what you want to get out of it. It is also important to know your farmer. If you cannot grow for yourself then make sure you know who's growing your stash, what they are growing with and their growing principals. You are after all consuming this, do what's best for your body. Good vibes only.

Photo by Nataliya Vaitkevich

Kush Kraft

Cannabis has been used for rituals for thousands of years. Usage in Romania dates back to more than 5000 years ago. In Ancient Egypt it was believed to be created by the sun god Ra. Emperor Shen Nung prescribed cannabis and the vikings associated cannabis with the Norse goddess of love, Freya.

But we all already know that cannabis is powerful and magical. I don't need to convince you of that, but like any herb, plant or spell, it's all about intent.

Connect with the plant before any use. I would suggest creating a sacred space, mediating and setting a positive intention. Feel gratitude for the herb, the grower, mother earth and bless my bud. Personally I would also cast a circle.

Cannabis is associated with the elements of water and earth, and the planet Saturn.
It holds powers of magnification, manifestation, healing, money, clearing of negative energy and connecting with deities like Ra, Pan, Dionysus, Osiris, Shiva, Isis and Venus.

Photo by Erik Mclean

Using Magick with Marijuana

Cannabis can be a unique and sacred tool when used intentionally and with an open heart.
How you use this magick is up to you, but remember what you put out comes back to you.
Here is a cute blessing that can be used while grinding your weed:

"From earth to air, and here to there
I grind you fine, with love and care
Through pestle to essence, here i sow
From whole to powder, on mortar you go
Round and round, may your power grow
Continue to let your energy flow"

Imagine grinding away any negativity, let all bad thoughts leave.
You can use non toxic ink to draw sigils on your papers or even write a positive affirmation.
Ensure you recite mantras or set your positive intention while rolling.
Using a colour corresponding candle will add even more power to your intention.
As you smoke, focus your mind on what you want to achieve. When you inhale, ask for it, when you exhale, know that it is done.
I would always end any rital with giving thanks and closing my circle.

Other ways to infuse a little magick into your weed is by keeping crystals in your stash jar.
You can also use the smoke to sage your space of stagnant energy.
Anoint candles with oils or use canna bath soaks to detox.

Did you know using a bong incorporates the elemental power of Earth (bud), Air (smoke), Water (moonwater), Fire (lighter), Spirit (intention).
Add some moon water to that bong and you have a powerful combination.

Cannabis can be a catalyst for spiritual transformation. When working with this plant as a spiritual ally it can open doors to parts of the mind, speed the vibrational astral process, and enhance shamanic experiences.
Add drumming, chanting, and singing to raise the vibration and provide a stream of energy to your journey.
Always remember that with any journey work, it's always a good idea to have a sitter to assist in guiding your experience.

The use of cannabis is always a personal experience and can vary from user to user.
Always practice Cannabis use responsibly.

When the heart, body, mind and soul find balance, this is when they are most at bliss.

Take the steps that resonate with you to consciously enhance your cannabis experience.