Since the last downturn, more states have legal marijuana – with its strong revenue stream

It is March Madness season!, Millions of viewers and fans tune  The 2024 edition of the men’s averaged nearly 10 million TV viewers per game. The women’s tournament also saw record-breaking viewership, with the championship game between Iowa and South Carolina becoming the most-watched women’s college basketball game on record, drawing an average of 18.7 million viewers.  It is the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I Men’s Basketball Championship, a single-elimination tournament held annually in the United States. The event features 68 college basketball teams competing in a series of games to determine the national champion. The tournament is known for its unpredictability and excitement, with upsets often occurring as lower-seeded teams defeat higher-seeded opponents. Want to add something to the fun? Here are the best trains for March Madness.

As March Madness approaches, basketball fans looking to enhance their viewing experience might consider pairing the excitement with carefully selected cannabis strains. As a special treat this year, Planet 13 in Las Vegas, the largest dispensary in the world,  is introducing an exclusive Fresh Drop Collection, “Kobe”. A premium strain cultivated by Medizin, powered by Planet 13. This limited-time release is designed for connoisseurs and sports fans alike.

Strain for the Championship Game

Apple Fritter – For the ultimate March Madness finale, consider Apple Fritter. This hybrid strain, likened to the reigning brilliance of championship teams, offers an uplifting high with a unique flavor profile2. It could be the perfect companion for the intensity and excitement of the championship game.

The Fresh Toast is a daily lifestyle platform with a side of cannabis. For more information, visit www.thefreshtoast.com.

Copyright 2025 The Fresh Toast. Distributed by TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

Date nights can be a vital to maintain a relationship, but did you know marijuana can help date night for all ages? A study by the National Marriage Project found that about 48% of married couples reported going on date nights “one or twice a month” or more frequently, while 52% reported going on date nights “a few times a year” or not at all. Couples who prioritize them are more likely to report better relationship quality and higher levels of intimacy, passion, and commitment. Date nights can help couples maintain a sense of connection and prevent their relationships from becoming mundane. 

Middle-aged couples juggling work and family responsibilities may find cannabis particularly beneficial for unwinding and reconnecting. The stress-reducing properties of marijuana can help partners shed the day’s tensions, creating a more relaxed atmosphere conducive to open communication. This can lead to deeper, more meaningful conversations, strengthening emotional bonds and mutual understanding.

For older adults, cannabis offers a range of benefits that can rejuvenate their romantic lives. Studies suggest moderate cannabis use may enhance sexual desire and satisfaction, potentially by promoting relaxation. While many seniors are discovering the potential of marijuana to alleviate common age-related issues such as chronic pain, sleep disturbances, and anxiety. By addressing these concerns, cannabis can help older couples feel more comfortable and present during intimate moments allowing them to fall in love with enjoyable intimacy again.

The Fresh Toast is a daily lifestyle platform with a side of cannabis. For more information, visit www.thefreshtoast.com.

Copyright 2025 The Fresh Toast. Distributed by TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

State Assemblyman Matt Haney, D-San Francisco, plans next week to introduce AB 564, or the Cannabis Tax Relief bill, to stop a tax hike — from 15% to 19% — set to go into effect on July 1.

Haney also authored AB 1775, which this year allowed dispensaries to open Amsterdam-style cannabis cafes with food and non-alcoholic drinks. While that bill and the one Haney is introducing next week could help boost local dispensaries’ revenues, some shops are nevertheless worried a tax hike will drive more cannabis consumers to the black market.

“The illicit or unregulated market is the biggest competition,” said Zoe Schreiber, director of compliance and public affairs for The Highlands Dispensary, which opened in unincorporated Livermore in 2022. “As a full retail community, our biggest competitors are not each other, but rather a market that’s unregulated.”

Schreiber said customers often complain of the high taxes on cannabis products at her dispensary, which can make up about 30% to 40% of the overall price out the door, she said. She said that in addition to the expected 4% excise tax increase, licensing and regulatory fees continue to drive the prices of legal cannabis products up, while pushing consumers away from the regulated market.

“‘I know a guy,’ or ‘my guy can get it to me for less.’ Those comments are ones that we do hear,” Schreiber said. “By continuing to do things to make regulated cannabis more expensive, or even where it’s at now, we lose over half the market. We lose the ability to create that safe space, which is what consumers voted for in 2016 with Prop. 64.”

Haney said he is putting the Cannabis Tax Relief forward to protect legal cannabis businesses from closing as the illegal market continues to grow at a faster rate.

“California’s cannabis industry is struggling. And a huge tax increase right now could be the nail in the coffin,” Haney said in an interview Wednesday. “This is absolutely the wrong time for a 25% tax increase on a fledgling legal cannabis industry that is trying to follow all of the rules and pay their taxes and is losing out everyday to those who are not.”

He also compared the legal weed industry’s tax bracket to that of wine or beer, saying a glass of alcohol includes about one or two cents in taxes, whereas taxes on a joint can cost over a dollar.

Haney added that California’s legal cannabis industry appears to be falling behind the cannabis-industry growth of other states such as Michigan, Colorado and Washington, which have lower taxes and friendlier regulations.

“I think that when cannabis was legalized in California, they did not expect that the illegal market would continue to thrive and grow and compete at the scale that it has,” Haney said. “They are operating outside of our laws entirely.

“Until California takes action to put a stop to that, we have to make sure that our businesses that are following the law are not so overly taxed and burdened that they cannot operate at all. This is common sense.”

California is known for its progressive approach to cannabis, and its wellness industry has embraced the plant’s potential for relaxation, creativity, and healing. Cannabis wellness retreats combine the therapeutic benefits of cannabis with holistic practices like yoga and meditation, offering a well-rounded approach to wellness.

What to Expect at a Cannabis Wellness Retreat

At a cannabis wellness retreat, you can expect a blend of experiences designed to nurture both the mind and the body. Many retreats offer a variety of activities, but the core focus remains on mindfulness and relaxation. Here’s a taste of what you might experience:

• Cannabis-Infused Yoga: A typical class might incorporate cannabis as a tool to deepen your practice. The plant’s calming effects can enhance flexibility, help you tap into deeper relaxation, and promote a sense of connection between your body and mind.
• Guided Meditation with Cannabis: Cannabis is known for its ability to heighten sensory experiences, which can make meditation practices even more profound. Some retreats offer guided sessions, where you can enhance your mindfulness practice while under the gentle influence of cannabis.
• Nature Walks and Scenic Views: Often, these retreats are held in beautiful, tranquil areas like the mountains, forests, or coastal regions, providing the perfect backdrop to connect with nature and yourself.

Where to Find Cannabis Wellness Retreats in California

California is home to several destinations offering cannabis wellness experiences. Here are a few spots where you can explore this unique blend of mindfulness and relaxation:

1. The Cannabis Spa at Sacred Garden (Los Angeles)
   Sacred Garden offers wellness packages combining yoga, cannabis consumption, and spa treatments. Located in the heart of LA, it provides an accessible and luxurious environment to unwind and reconnect. 
2. The Bloom Farms Retreat (Santa Barbara)
   Nestled in the rolling hills of Santa Barbara, this retreat is all about slowing down, finding balance, and nurturing your well-being. Their curated cannabis-infused yoga and meditation sessions are designed to help you relax and reset. 
3. The Healer’s Retreat (Northern California, Sonoma)
   In the tranquil wine country of Sonoma, this retreat integrates cannabis therapy with mindfulness practices. From yoga classes that feature cannabis to mindful breathing techniques, you’ll be guided by professionals who understand how to blend the plant’s properties with wellness practices. 
4. Canna-Camp at Camp Redwood (Big Sur)
   Set in one of California’s most scenic and serene locations, Big Sur, Canna-Camp offers a truly immersive cannabis retreat experience. Aside from yoga and guided meditation, guests are introduced to cannabis in a safe and therapeutic way, with educational sessions on consumption methods and wellness benefits. 

Why Choose a Cannabis Wellness Retreat?

If you’re wondering whether a cannabis wellness retreat is for you, consider this: these retreats can help with everything from reducing stress to enhancing creativity. They provide an opportunity to disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with your body, mind, and spirit. Plus, they offer a safe and guided way to explore cannabis in a holistic context—helping you better understand its effects and how it can fit into your wellness journey.

So, if you’re craving a getaway that combines mindfulness, cannabis, and nature, California’s cannabis wellness retreats might just be what you need to recharge and rejuvenate. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or healing, these retreats promise an experience that’s both exciting and deeply restorative.

Sources:

• The Cannabis Spa at Sacred Garden – sacredgarden.com
• The Bloom Farms Retreat – bloomfarms.com
• Healer’s Retreat, Sonoma – sonomacannabiswellness.com
• Canna-Camp at Camp Redwood – cannacamp.com

What Are Cannabis Art Classes?

Cannabis art classes are just what they sound like: creative workshops where you can get your hands dirty (literally) and make something beautiful while enjoying cannabis in a legal, chill space. Depending on where you are, these classes can range from painting and pottery to other forms of art, all with the option to consume cannabis in a relaxed setting. The idea is to combine the calming, creative effects of cannabis with the joy of making art—whether that’s painting a masterpiece or crafting the perfect pottery mug.

For example, you might attend a cannabis painting class, where you’re encouraged to puff, pass, and paint. Or, you might try a pottery workshop, shaping clay into your next favorite piece while mellowing out with a little cannabis. The vibe is relaxed, social, and—most importantly—creative.

Why You’ll Love Cannabis Art Classes

1. Boost Your Creativity: We all know that cannabis can open up new ways of thinking. Studies show that it can enhance creative thinking, helping you come up with fresh ideas (hello, masterpiece!). Whether you’re painting or sculpting, cannabis helps you get into that flow state where you’re free to create without self-doubt. 
2. Relax and Unwind: Cannabis is known for its ability to help people relax, which is perfect for an art class where you want to escape the stress of everyday life. When you’re not stressing, you’re free to really enjoy the process, whether it’s mixing colors on a canvas or molding your perfect clay piece. 
3. Meet Cool People: Cannabis art classes often have a social component. You’ll be surrounded by like-minded people who are there to have fun, try something new, and share in the creativity. It’s a great way to meet others who share your love for cannabis and art. 

How to Sign Up for Cannabis Art Classes Online

Joining a cannabis art class is super easy! Here’s how to do it:

1. Look for Local Classes: First, start by searching for cannabis art classes in your area. Websites like Leafly and Weedmaps are great for finding local cannabis-friendly events. These sites list cannabis-infused art workshops, along with the details you need, like where to go and what to expect. 
2. Check Availability: Once you find a class that piques your interest, head over to the event’s website to check if spots are available. Some popular classes can fill up fast, so make sure to sign up early if you’ve got your eye on one. 
3. Register Online: Most cannabis art workshops use online event platforms like Eventbrite or Meetup to handle sign-ups. These platforms make it easy to book and pay for your spot. Just make sure to check the details for age restrictions or any cannabis rules (like bringing your own or using the venue’s cannabis). 
4. Get Ready: Some workshops provide everything you need—brushes, clay, paints, and all the art supplies. But it’s always a good idea to double-check what’s included so you’re fully prepared. And remember, some places will have specific rules about how and when cannabis can be consumed. 

Finding Tutorials to Get Started

If you’re new to painting or pottery, don’t worry! There are tons of online tutorials to help you ease into your new hobby before signing up for a class. You can find plenty of free tutorials on YouTube for painting (check out “The Art Sherpa” for step-by-step guides) or pottery (Skillshare and Udemy have great beginner courses).

Examples of Cannabis Art Classes

Cities like Los Angeles, Denver, and Portland are full of cannabis art classes, and they’re definitely worth checking out. In LA, Art + Cannabis offers a chill space to paint and get creative with others who love cannabis. They even have live music, so it’s more like a creative party.

In Denver, you’ll find workshops like HighArt, where you can take painting classes while being in a cannabis-friendly environment. Denver is pretty known for its cannabis culture, so these events are a great way to tap into the city’s creative vibe.

Final Thoughts

Cannabis art classes are a fun and relaxing way to get your creative juices flowing while enjoying cannabis in a welcoming environment. From painting to pottery, these workshops offer the perfect mix of creativity, community, and relaxation. So, if you’re looking to try something new, meet cool people, and maybe even discover your inner artist, a cannabis art class could be your next adventure. Just sign up, bring your good vibes, and get ready to create!

1. Host a Green-Themed Cannabis Party

St. Patrick’s Day is synonymous with the color green, so why not host a party that combines green beer with green buds? Decorate your space with shamrocks, leprechaun hats, and other Irish-inspired decorations. Offer a variety of cannabis strains to fit your guests’ preferences, from energizing sativas to relaxing indicas. You can even create a tasting menu that highlights strains with unique flavor profiles—think earthy, citrusy, or herbal notes.

Make it interactive by adding a joint-rolling competition or setting up a vape station. For those who don’t want to smoke, consider cannabis-infused mocktails or edibles. Just be sure to provide clear dosage information and encourage moderation.

2. Try Cannabis-Infused Irish Recipes

Cooking with cannabis is an excellent way to infuse some extra fun into your St. Patrick’s Day menu. Consider whipping up classic Irish dishes like corned beef and cabbage or shepherd’s pie with a cannabis twist. You can incorporate cannabis-infused butter (cannabutter) or oils into your recipes. For dessert, bake some cannabis-infused shamrock cookies or brownies with green icing.

If you’re new to cannabis cooking, remember to start with low doses and label everything clearly for your guests. It’s better to serve small portions and allow people to go back for seconds if they’re feeling comfortable.

3. Attend a Cannabis-Friendly Event

With cannabis legalization expanding, many cities now offer cannabis-friendly events. Check out local listings to see if there are any St. Patrick’s Day events featuring cannabis, such as yoga classes, art sessions, or even cannabis lounges with live music. These gatherings provide a welcoming space to celebrate while enjoying the benefits of cannabis in a social setting.

4. Play Irish-Themed Games with a Cannabis Twist

Take your St. Patrick’s Day game night to the next level by adding cannabis prizes or penalties. Play classics like trivia, card games, or scavenger hunts with an Irish theme. For example, create a trivia game that focuses on Irish history, culture, and cannabis facts. Did you know that ancient Irish texts, such as the “Book of Leinster,” mention the use of hemp for medicinal purposes? Incorporate these fun facts to keep the vibe both educational and entertaining.

5. Take a Nature Walk with a Cannabis Edge

If you prefer something more low-key, pack a picnic and head to a local park or nature trail. Bring along a pre-rolled joint or vape pen to enjoy during your outing. The fresh air and beautiful scenery, combined with the relaxing effects of cannabis, can make for an unforgettable afternoon. Just be sure to follow local laws and dispose of your waste responsibly.

6. Create DIY Cannabis Crafts

Get your creative juices flowing by making your own cannabis-themed crafts. Decorate glass jars for storing your cannabis, design festive rolling trays, or even make hemp jewelry. Incorporating cannabis into your St. Patrick’s Day crafts adds a fun, personal touch to the holiday.

Safety Tips to Keep in Mind

• Know Your Limits: Whether you’re consuming edibles, smoking, or vaping, start with a low dose and pace yourself.
• Provide Alternatives: Have non-infused food and drinks available for those who aren’t consuming cannabis.
• Be Responsible: Avoid mixing cannabis with alcohol unless you’re experienced with the combination, as it can amplify the effects.
• Follow the Law: Make sure all activities are compliant with local cannabis regulations.

With these ideas, you can turn St. Patrick’s Day into a festive, cannabis-infused celebration that’s equal parts fun and relaxing. So grab your green gear, stock up on your favorite strains, and let the good vibes roll! Sláinte!

1. Green Edibles: Get Baked, Literally

Instead of the usual corned beef and cabbage, why not whip up some cannabis-infused treats? You can make classic brownies or cookies with cannabutter, but if you want to stay festive, consider green-colored goodies like:

• Matcha-infused weed brownies – The earthy tones of matcha blend perfectly with cannabis.
• Mint chocolate chip cannabis cookies – A sweet and refreshing treat for the holiday.
• Green-themed gummies – Infuse some homemade gummies with THC or CBD and color them green.

Just remember to label your edibles clearly and let everyone know the potency before indulging.

2. Sip on Some Green Cannabis Cocktails

Cannabis-infused beverages are becoming more popular, and St. Patrick’s Day is the perfect occasion to experiment. Try making a THC-infused Irish coffee, a CBD mojito, or even a weed-infused shamrock shake for a refreshing treat. If you’re using cannabis tinctures, they blend easily into drinks, giving you a mellow buzz while keeping it festive.

3. Puff, Puff, Pass the Luck of the Irish

A St. Paddy’s Day smoke session with friends can be a great way to enjoy the holiday. Consider rolling up some green-themed joints using flavored rolling papers (like mint or apple) for an extra festive touch. If you want to get fancy, try packing a clover-shaped joint or a pot of gold bowl (a mix of kief, flower, and hash for an extra lucky hit).

4. Lucky Leprechaun Cannabis Games

Want to spice up the party? Here are some cannabis-infused drinking game alternatives:

• Green Bong Rips – Instead of taking a shot when someone says a certain word, take a hit.
• Stoner’s Pot of Gold Hunt – Hide pre-rolls, gummies, or small edibles around your party space like an adult Easter egg hunt.
• Cannabis Karaoke – Nothing beats belting out Irish folk songs after a good high.

5. Chill with a Classic Irish Stoner Movie Night

If a laid-back night is more your vibe, settle in with some munchies and a cannabis strain that pairs well with your favorite Irish movies. Some great picks:

• Leprechaun (for a hilarious, slightly scary vibe)
• The Boondock Saints (for action-packed Irish badassery)
• Derry Girls (for laughs and Irish wit)

Pair your viewing with a relaxing indica or a creative hybrid to fully enjoy the experience.

Final Thoughts: Stay Safe and Celebrate Responsibly

While cannabis can make St. Patrick’s Day extra fun, be mindful of your limits and consume responsibly. If you’re partying with friends, make sure everyone gets home safely and pace yourself, especially if mixing with alcohol.

This year, go green in more ways than one—whether you’re munching on infused treats, sipping THC cocktails, or passing a lucky joint, cannabis can add a fun twist to your St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Sláinte!

First off, let’s appreciate what makes pi so fascinating. Pi is the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter, and it’s been studied for over 4,000 years. Ancient Egyptians and Babylonians were already using approximations of pi, and Greek mathematician Archimedes is credited with refining its value. Fast forward to today, and pi has been calculated to over 62.8 trillion digits (yeah, someone had time for that). It’s used in everything from engineering and physics to creating computer graphics and predicting planetary orbits. But on March 14, we’re less about the math and more about the munchies.

Speaking of munchies, let’s talk about the star of the day: pie. Whether it’s apple, cherry, pumpkin, or even pizza pie, this culinary delight takes center stage. And for those who want to elevate their Pi Day experience, why not bake a cannabis-infused pie? Not much of a baker? No worries—a store-bought pie paired with some cannabis-infused coffee works just as well. Edibles are a great way to enjoy a chill vibe while diving into the joy of Pi Day, whether you’re solving math puzzles or just vibing with your favorite playlist.

For a quick DIY cannabis-infused pie filling, you can try this:

• Blend your favorite fruit (like berries or peaches) with sugar and a bit of lemon juice.
• Add a few drops of cannabis-infused tincture or cannabutter.
• Pour the filling into a pre-made crust, bake, and voila—a Pi Day treat that’s both fun and flavorful. Just remember to dose responsibly; start low and go slow.

Need another way to celebrate? Try hosting a Pi Day trivia game. Challenge your friends with fun facts about pi and math history. For example, did you know that Albert Einstein’s birthday is also March 14? Talk about a cosmic coincidence! Or that NASA uses pi to calculate distances to faraway planets? You can find more cool pi facts on sites like NASA’s Pi Day page or the Exploratorium, which popularized the holiday in 1988.

If you’re less into baking and more into buying, many local bakeries and pizza joints offer Pi Day deals. Look out for $3.14 specials or buy-one-get-one-free offers. It’s a perfect excuse to treat yourself (and maybe your friends if you’re feeling generous).

Pi Day is a celebration of curiosity, creativity, and, let’s face it, carbs. So, whether you’re a math whiz, a foodie, or just someone looking for an excuse to try something new, this day has a little something for everyone. Break out the calculators, preheat the oven, and get ready to celebrate 3.14 in the most delicious way possible. And hey, if that pie comes with a little extra kick, who’s judging? Cheers to Pi Day!

Why Pair Cannabis with Food?

The key to cannabis pairing events is the entourage effect—a phenomenon where various compounds in cannabis, including cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) and terpenes, interact with each other and the body. These compounds can enhance the sensory experience of both cannabis and food, creating a unique flavor profile. Terpenes, the aromatic oils in cannabis, are similar to the essential oils found in herbs and spices. By matching strains with food or drink that share similar terpenes, the pairing elevates both the cannabis experience and the meal.

Top Cannabis Pairings

1. Strawberry Cough with Light Summer Salads

Strawberry Cough, a hybrid strain known for its sweet berry aroma and uplifting effects, is perfect for pairing with fresh, vibrant dishes. A light summer salad featuring strawberries, goat cheese, and balsamic vinaigrette complements the sweet and fruity terpenes of Strawberry Cough. The uplifting effects of the strain also pair nicely with the refreshing nature of the dish, making this a great combination for a sunny afternoon.

1. Blue Dream with Grilled Meats

Blue Dream, one of the most popular strains, is a balanced hybrid with a sweet berry aroma and relaxing, yet euphoric, effects. It pairs beautifully with rich, savory grilled meats such as steak or lamb. The herbal, earthy notes of Blue Dream bring out the smokiness of the grilled meats, while its relaxed, happy effects enhance the overall dining experience. For a truly elevated pairing, pair it with a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or mushrooms, which further complement the strain’s terpene profile.

1. Jack Herer with Coffee or Dark Chocolate

Jack Herer, a classic sativa, is known for its invigorating, clear-headed effects and earthy, piney aroma. Its uplifting nature makes it an excellent pairing with coffee or dark chocolate. The energizing effects of Jack Herer complement the rich, bold flavors of a strong coffee, while the earthy tones of the strain bring out the complex flavors of dark chocolate. This pairing is ideal for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon treat.

1. Granddaddy Purple with Dessert Teas

Granddaddy Purple, with its deep grape and berry flavors and calming effects, is the perfect match for sweet, floral desserts. Try pairing it with a chamomile or lavender-infused tea. The calming effects of both the strain and the tea help to enhance relaxation, while the sweet, fruity undertones of the cannabis match perfectly with the floral notes of the tea. This is a perfect post-dinner pairing to unwind and relax.

1. Sour Diesel with Spicy Foods

Sour Diesel, a sativa-dominant strain known for its pungent, diesel-like aroma and energizing effects, pairs exceptionally well with spicy foods. Think hot wings, spicy tacos, or a fiery curry. The sharp, citrusy, and diesel-like terpenes in Sour Diesel balance the heat of the spices, while its energizing effects will keep you lively and engaged throughout the meal.

Conclusion

Cannabis pairing events offer an exciting, new way to appreciate cannabis in a culinary context. By exploring different strains and matching them with various foods and beverages, you can enhance your sensory experiences and learn more about the unique interactions between cannabis and flavor. So, next time you’re looking for a new adventure in dining, why not try a cannabis pairing event? It’s the perfect way to combine your love for good food with the joy of cannabis in a fun, relaxed setting.

Sources:

• Leafly (https://www.leafly.com)
• High Times (https://hightimes.com)
• Cannabis Now (https://cannabisnow.com)

Even a planned sacrifice can use a little help, here is how marijuana can help you during Lent

The start of Lent is a time observed in many Christian traditions, including Catholic, Lutheran, Moravian, Anglican, United Protestant, and Orthodox. It is usually a 40-day period, which echoes the time Jesus spent fasting in the desert. The time is thought to symbolize testing, trial, and renewal. In addition to donating time, talent and treasure along with self reflection, the true believer believes you should give us something you love. For some it is wine or alcohol, for others it could be more. Here is how cannabis can help you during Lent.

Cannabis use during Lent, a traditional Christian period of fasting and spiritual reflection, is a complex and controversial topic requiring careful consideration. While some may view cannabis as incompatible with Lenten practices, others argue it can potentially aid in spiritual growth and personal reflection when used mindfully. Done correctly, it can help you reach your goals.

Studies suggest cannabis can be used as a replacement for alcohol and can improve overall health. It offers a range of benefits for those seeking to reduce or eliminate their alcohol consumption. CBD and THC drops are becoming popular substitutes, providing natural relaxation without the negative side effects associated with drinking. Unlike alcohol, which can lead to dehydration, impaired judgment, and potential long-term health risks, cannabis promotes relaxation and improved sleep quality without causing hangovers.

Studies suggest cannabis may help individuals maintain alcohol abstinence, with some patients reporting it as an effective substitute. The trend of replacing alcohol with cannabis is growing, with daily cannabis use surpassing daily alcohol use in the United States for the first time. Cannabis-infused beverages are also on the rise, offering a diverse range of options for those looking to socialize without alcohol.

In addition, many adherents of Lent are older, and a key benefit of cannabis is relief. For those dealing with chronic pain or anxiety, cannabis may offer relief without breaking Lenten commitments to abstain from other substances. Medical marijuana users have reported significant improvements in quality of life, pain levels, and overall functioning. This could allow individuals to focus more deeply on their spiritual practices without being hindered by physical discomfort.

Part of the  sacrifice is to reflect on the spiritual journey. Cannabis can promote introspection and heightened awareness, which aligns with Lenten goals of self-examination and spiritual growth. However, it’s crucial to approach this mindfully and avoid using cannabis as an escape or distraction from the purpose of Lent.

The Fresh Toast is a daily lifestyle platform with a side of cannabis. For more information, visit www.thefreshtoast.com.

Copyright 2025 The Fresh Toast. Distributed by TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.