Cannabis' spiritual uses remain unexplored in popular culture

My personal exploration in the world of psychedelics began with cannabis.

Though I was accustomed to using cannabis for recreational purposes, I had no idea it could have psychedelic properties. So when I was invited to participate in a cannabis ceremony with a plant elder in the forest near Algonquin park, I was intrigued, but a little skeptical.

Little did I know that within the fragrant clouds of vapour lay the potential for profound spiritual experiences. I came out of the ceremony as a different person.

I thought cannabis was recreational

As I prepared to go on my retreat, I learned that cannabis was not what I thought it was. It's not considered a "classical psychedelic" by scientists because it doesn't strongly activate specific receptors in the human brain known as 5-HT2A receptors. Instead, cannabis activates cannabinoid receptors.

Despite that molecule-level difference, in some situations, cannabis users report effects that are similar to classical psychedelics, including perceptual changes and visual hallucinations. Researchers are actively studying the why and how of these effects, and in the meantime, people are experimenting because cannabis offers a safe and legal (in some places) pathway to psychedelic experiences.

Psychedelics are a process, not a substance

During my three-hour ceremony, I used a dry herb vaporizer packed with a blend of cannabis strains known to have slightly psychedelic properties. They had a high THC content, and a lower concentration of CBD. But my retreat experience taught me to look beyond the molecules.

The three-step psychedelic process is really what makes cannabis a spiritual tool and a transformative experience. By setting an intention, by going into a ceremonial mindset, and by integrating what I learned, I found spiritual solace.?(And I wrote in depth about it here .)

Traditional cultures embraced cannabis

After my experience in the forest, I delved into esoteric books like Cannabis and Spirituality: An Explorer’s Guide to An Ancient Plant Spirit Ally . I discovered that the ancient roots of cannabis are deeply intertwined with spiritual and religious rituals from pre-biblical times to the present.

The book revealed how, throughout history, mystics and seekers have turned to cannabis to deepen their connection with the divine, gain profound insights, and explore alternative realms of consciousness.

I was honestly stunned. How could I have known nothing about the spiritual uses of a this affordable and ubiquitous plant? Now I realize there's a huge gap in our cultural understanding of cannabis. I also realized the gap can be closed.

Intentionality is everything

When I look back on my own recreational experiences with cannabis over the years, I see how hints of that spiritual connection were there all along, but I overlooked them. I didn't know what I know now.

My own experiences since the ceremony have taught me that mindful consumption, intention-setting, responsible dosing, and creating a sacred space make all the difference.

I’m fascinated with the fact that psychedelic revelation is readily available in the pot shops that line my neighbourhood. The spiritual benefits of this legal and safe substance represent an unexplored potential. I find that exciting!

Societal re-education is needed

My hope is that, as a society, we can re-educate ourselves about the dormant potential of cannabis. By acknowledging its historical significance in traditional cultures and embracing more intentional use of this plant, we can create spaces and communities that foster a deeper, more meaningful connection with cannabis. And with ourselves.