For centuries, cannabis has been closely associated with spirituality and wellness across the globe. This herb was even mentioned in the ancient Vedic texts of India, indicating that it was being used by Rishis and Yogis at that time to gain deepened perceptions. It has traditionally been praised for its healing and relaxation properties, as well as for its success as a medicinal herb. What is it about cannabis that blends seamlessly with meditation and yoga?
One reason may be that ‘Cannabis stimulates an area of the brain called the pineal gland, which in meditation is called the 3rd eye chakra’. This ostensibly allows the yogi to reach a higher level of consciousness and self, resulting in an out-of-this-world yoga session and a long-lasting state of fulfillment. Another reason many suggest to consume cannabis before a class is that it helps to relax the muscles and alleviate pain. Students have claimed that this has aided them in perfecting their poses by increasing their flexibility and eradicating any previous inhibitions.
Not every yogi is into the idea of cannabis and yoga, however; many purists are against the use of cannabis to enhance a yoga session and claim ‘that smoking pot could cause an unwieldy imbalance’. Those teaching classes that incorporate cannabis use tend to disagree with this sentiment, and brush the purist teachers off as being ‘too uptight’. “I think marijuana creates an inquisitiveness, a stillness, something that allows you to concentrate on one thing at a time,“ said one ganja yoga student. “And tactile sensations feel better, so as you’re stretching everything basically feels good.”
Absolutely mind-blowing! Shall we be expecting to see more ganja-infused yoga classes popping up in the Denver area over the next year? I know I’d like to try it! What’s your take?