Written By: Leah Alabre

Cannabis has moved far beyond its stereotypes. Today, many people use it not only for relaxation but also as a tool for wellness. Research suggests that cannabis may help with better sleep, deeper mindfulness, and even enhanced motivation when used thoughtfully. 

Cannabis and Sleep: Restoring Balance 

Restful sleep is essential for health, yet millions struggle with insomnia, stress, or restless nights. Cannabis has shown promise in supporting sleep by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating rest cycles. 

• Falling asleep faster: THC has been linked to reduced sleep onset time (Babson et al., 2017). 

• Staying asleep: CBD may ease nighttime awakenings and improve overall sleep quality (Shannon et al., 2019). 

• Natural relaxation: Terpenes such as myrcene and linalool, often found in indica-dominant strains, add calming effects. 

For many, cannabis creates a gentle bridge into deeper, more restorative rest. 

Cannabis and Motivation: Breaking the Myth 

The stereotype of cannabis causing laziness doesn’t tell the whole story. While heavy use can lead to fatigue, certain strains and doses may actually support motivation and creativity. 

• Boosting energy and focus: Sativa-dominant strains high in limonene or pinene may increase alertness and uplift mood (Cooper & Haney, 2016). 

• Supporting exercise: Athletes report cannabis reduces pain, enhances enjoyment, and encourages regular activity (YorkWilliams et al., 2019). 

• Inspiring creativity: While cannabis will not make an uncreative person creative, THC can influence creativity and divergent thinking. Just remember a little cannabis can help spark new ideas, while too much can get you lost in the sauce. (Schafer et al., 2012). 

The key is balance — too much can sedate, but the right type and dose can energize.  

Cannabis and Mindfulness: Living in the Moment 

Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present, and cannabis may complement it by helping people slow down and focus. Users often report: 

• Heightened sensory awareness — tastes, sounds, and textures feel more vivid thanks to THCs interactions with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates sensory perception and the dopamine reward system.  (Earleywine & Earleywine, 2010). 

• Quieting anxious thoughts — cannabis can reduce rumination, supporting meditation and relaxation (Cuttler et al., 2018). 

• Deeper flow states — pairing cannabis with yoga, journaling, or breathwork can strengthen mindful awareness. 

Used with intention, cannabis can make everyday practices, from a walk outside to a meditation session, more grounding and immersive. 

A Mindful Relationship with Cannabis

Cannabis isn’t a cure-all, and its effects vary by individual. Responsible use means starting small, choosing strains intentionally, and being mindful of timing and setting. 

When used this way, cannabis has the potential to restore sleep, deepen mindfulness, and even unlock motivation making it not just a plant, but a versatile wellness ally. 

References: 

Babson, K. A., Sottile, J., & Morabito, D. (2017). Cannabis, cannabinoids, and sleep: A review of the literature. Current Psychiatry Reports, 19(4), 23. 

Shannon, S., Lewis, N., Lee, H., & Hughes, S. (2019). Cannabidiol in anxiety and sleep: A large case series. The Permanente Journal, 23, 18-041. 

Earleywine, M., & Earleywine, M. (2010). Cannabis and mindfulness. Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, 42(2), 173-178. 

Cuttler, C., Spradlin, A., Nusbaum, A. T., & Whitney, P. (2018). Blunted stress reactivity in chronic cannabis users. Psychopharmacology, 235(11), 3245-3255. 

Cooper, Z. D., & Haney, M. (2016). Sex-dependent effects of cannabis-induced subjective alterations in motivation. Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology, 24(5), 391–402. 

YorkWilliams, S. L., et al. (2019). The new runner’s high? Examining relationships between cannabis use and exercise behavior. Frontiers in Public Health, 7, 99.