Cannabis Courtesy
Assemble
The universal sign of the time to smoke is a collective walk out to the designated smoke spot. Relocation brings everyone interested together and sets the time frame. There’s nothing worse than missing the signal, being late and only getting the last hits. Plus, having everyone gathered around keeps the rotation consistent. Rotation is important. It keeps the sharing of weed fair and provides some structure. This is easy when you’re in a traditional circle, a bit harder to keep straight when people are jumping in and out—especially as your high sets in. Hint: when in doubt, pass to the right.
Establish How You’re Smoking
Puff, puff, pass is the default rhythm. It makes sure that everyone gets some hits, the joint makes its rounds at a decent pace and there’s no hogging. Trust me, it may not seem like it but people are paying attention—if you slow things down, someone will probably say something.
Things like this are particularly important if you have a limited amount of bud that you’re trying to share among a certain group of people.
Side note: a good rhythm gives you a chance to catch your breath and gives your lungs time to get fresh air before it’s your turn again. It’s a balancing act.
So No Bogarting—smoke and talk and pace. Don’t get so caught up in storytelling that you’re just letting the joint burn and go to waste. That costs money !
Ash Then Pass
Remember, when you’re smoking, your lungs will catch some damage. When taking your hit through ash, you’re just intaking more of the stuff you don’t want while muddling the taste and effect of the flower. Almost everyone I know, ashes their joint before they smoke it, whether you’ve done it for them or not. But you should still do it; it’s a nice gesture and a literal flick of the wrist.
Easy on the Slobber
It’s one thing for you to use your mouth to roll and pull everything together. Yes, you can just use water and a Q-tip or your finger to seal a joint. But let’s be real, when you want to smoke you may not have water. Who’s not sealing it with their mouth anyway? However, it’s another thing to pass a soggy joint in a rotation.
Suggestions
· Swallow before you take your hit
· use your fingers as a buffer between your mouth and the joint
· Put the joint up to your lips instead of in your mouth
· Let the joint dry a bit before lighting and passing
Contribute
Smoke sessions are social and a communal space. Ideally everyone participating brings some bud to roll up or a product (edible) to share. Maybe you don’t have weed this time, but you can be the one to have a working lighter, kief or concentrate, rolling supplies like papers, or water. You could even be the one to offer a relatively close and comfortable smoke spot. And if you actually have nothing to contribute, just say something like “I don’t have anything on me” or “I got you guys next time.” You just don’t want to be labeled as the one who shows up expecting to get smoked out.
Air Out
I know weed may be a part of your lifestyle or medical routine and therefore, so has the smell. Some people love the smell of weed, while others not so much. As we know, smells stick to you, so be mindful. Maybe take a few extra minutes to air out before going into crowded spaces or before being around sensitive demographics, like kids. Besides, you might not want a first impression to be based on such an acquired smell.
If There’s Not Much Left, Kill It
Alright—so you’ve been following the rules and you’re feeling good, the joint is almost done. After your turn, there’s only a hit or two left. Take those hits. By the time you ash, the next person wouldn’t be able to have a satisfying turn, so you take it. It’s like leaving a sip for someone you promised to share your drink with.
Match the Vibe
Come with good energy. To a large degree, your high is what you make of it. Relax and have a good time.
And of course, if you’re smoking alone, do what you like. Just remember to be considerate of the people and circumstances around you.
