Written by Joshua Sosin

Whether you’re smoking flower, hitting a vape, or munching on an edible, getting high comes in waves. Understanding the different stages can help you appreciate the experience more than ever.

Here's a quick look at the different stages of cannabis effects and what they feel like.

To learn more about how it feels to be high, check out the Mood Blog.

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Table of Contents

• Stage 1: The Anticipation

• Stage 2: The Lift-Off

• Stage 3: The Peak

• Stage 4: The Cruise

• Stage 5: The Come Down

• Stage 6: The Afterglow

• Experience Your Ideal High With Mood

Stage 1: Anticipation

Before the high even begins, there’s the ritual. Rolling up a joint, packing a bowl, heating up a dab rig —whatever your method, this stage is full of excitement, and it can produce effects of its own.

You’re choosing your strain, preparing your setup, and getting comfortable. Whether solo or with friends, the anticipation is half the fun, and it can lead to a nice wave of relaxation as you look forward to what's to come.

Cannabis edibles add another layer of anticipation. Unlike smoking or vaping, which offer quick effects, edibles make you wait. The delayed onset can build excitement, which some stoners say makes the experience even more enjoyable.

Stage 2: The Lift-Off

Once you take that first hit or consume cannabis in any other form, you’re officially on your way. This stage of your cannabis journey varies depending on your cannabis consumption method of choice.

• Smoking/Vaping: The effects start within minutes, creeping in as your head gets lighter and your body relaxes.

• Edibles: The slow climb begins anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours, depending on metabolism and what you’ve eaten beforehand.

At this point, you might notice subtle shifts and start to feel high as cannabinoids like THC interact with your body's endocannabinoid system.

Changes to sensory perception and how your body feels might be the first things you notice. Music starts to sound a little richer, food smells more delicious, and your body feels looser. It’s like your senses are sharpening, and the world is suddenly becoming more interesting.

Stage 3: The Peak

Welcome to the summit.

The peak is where cannabis shows its full effects. Your mind is fully in the zone, whether that means uncontrollable laughter at the tiniest joke, sinking into deep thoughts, or feeling creative and inspired to focus and do your best work. The specific effects will depend on the strain you choose.

For some folks, this stage brings an intense body high, like being wrapped in a warm blanket. Others experience heightened mental stimulation.

If you want to experience a specific mood while enjoying cannabis, grab a strain that piques your interest from the Mood Shop. Subscribe to save 15% on your order.

Stage 4: The Cruise

After the peak, you settle into a steady high.

This is the sweet spot of cannabis use; still feeling comfortable but no longer climbing. Your body and mind are balanced, making this stage perfect for chilling, watching movies, gaming, or just enjoying the moment.

However, if you overdid it on the THC and feel like you might be greening out, this stage can also be a time to self-regulate. Hydration, deep breaths, and a comfortable environment can help ease an overly intense experience.

Stage 5: The Come Down

All good things must come to an end, and the high from cannabis is no exception.

At this point, your high wears off gradually, and your body returns to baseline after being stoned. Depending on the strain you chose, you might feel relaxed and mellow — or just ready to fall asleep.

For some, this stage can make you feel tired especially with high-THC strains or edibles. However, you might also experience clarity as the fog lifts. Either way, it’s a signal that the experience is wrapping up.

Stage 6: The Afterglow

Even after the high fades, the afterglow lingers.

This is that peaceful, content feeling that sticks around, leaving you relaxed and satisfied. It’s the perfect time for reflection.

For many weed fans, the afterglow is a favorite part of the process. The good vibes stick around, helping you ease back into normal life while still carrying a bit of the cannabis high with you.

Experience Your Ideal High With Mood

Cannabis affects everyone a bit differently, and your journey with weed will be completely your own. That's why the Mood Shop is the perfect place to meet all of your weed needs.

At Mood, we offer American-grown strains cultivated to produce a variety of incredible moods. No matter what you want to experience, there's a strain in the Mood Shop for you.

Check out our full selection of premium THCa flower and use the code "FIRST20" to save 20% on your initial order.