Ganja Yoga: How to Combine Cannabis and Yoga?

The revival of cannabis yoga: a millennia-old practice

Nowadays, cannabis yoga is attracting international attention, championed by both teachers and students who defend its unique benefits. It's important to stress, however, that marijuana and yoga do not always mix harmoniously.

Terms like "weed yoga," "ganja yoga" and "stoned yoga" have become buzzwords in regions where cannabis is legal, such as Colorado, California and Canada. Contemporary yogis are incorporating this plant into their practice, arguing that it can enable a deeper connection between mind, body and soul.

Historical records show that cannabis grew naturally for thousands of years in the foothills of regions now known as Pakistan, Nepal, Kazakhstan and India, and played a fundamental role in the religious and spiritual traditions of these cultures.

Spiritual foundations and the Vedic tradition

The Vedas, India's ancient religious texts, tell that the gods created cannabis on the peak of Mount Mandara, and that Shiva brought this sacred plant to Earth for the benefit of all humankind. The Atharvaveda explicitly mentions cannabis as one of five fundamental plants, while other Vedic scriptures go even further, suggesting that our interaction with these sacred plants is responsible for the spiritual development of humanity.

This ancient connection between cannabis and spirituality provides a deep historical context for understanding why some modern practitioners wish to revive this old tradition, always, however, from the perspective of collectible genetics and their unique aromatic profile.

The effect of cannabis genetics on yoga practice

Cannabis genetics, known for their relaxing profiles, suggest that these strains could be beneficial for enhancing yoga performance. The terpene composition, featuring myrcene and limonene in certain strains, contributes to aromatic profiles traditionally associated with relaxation and well-being.

Dee Dussault, founder of the ganja yoga movement in San Francisco, believes that cannabis can help her students "quiet the ego" and step out of their thoughts: "It gives us a stronger sense of physical groundedness. Pain relief is also an important aspect."

The general Ayurvedic view of cannabis, however, may come as a surprise. Many experienced yogis and spiritual teachers warn that cannabis use is above all a matter of balance. Ayurveda recognizes the holistic properties of cannabis genetics, but also points to certain limits on their use.

The modern controversy: benefits and precautions

Physician and respected spiritual teacher Alakananda Ma writes in her analysis of the Ayurvedic view of marijuana: "Ganja can potentially be useful on the spiritual path, although I have rarely met a sadhu who smoked ganja and reached the ultimate goal. Torn from its cultural context and introduced into a recreational lifestyle, it has become far more problematic."

Beyond the spiritual aspect, strains with certain terpene profiles can naturally complement the stretching involved in yoga, especially genetics rich in caryophyllene and pinene, known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

Worldwide spread of the movement

The current ganja yoga movement, making headlines around the world, has its pioneer in Dee Dussault. She was the first yoga teacher to openly promote cannabis use during yoga practice and to offer classes built around this experience. She is also the author of the best-selling book on ganja yoga.

Over the past decade, Dee has taught ganja yoga to thousands of students in the US, Canada, Jamaica, Hong Kong and Australia. Dussault's movement focuses on areas where cannabis is legal or decriminalized, always complying with local regulations.

Public debate: proponents vs. critics

Proponents of cannabis and yoga tend to emphasize the relaxing effect of certain genetics as one of the main reasons this plant should be combined with yoga. Many also cite historical texts as evidence to support their arguments.

Critics of cannabis yoga, on the other hand, argue that while cannabis has been used in some spiritual practices to calm the mind, it is not a ticket to enlightenment or spiritual strengthening.

When considering this debate over combining yoga and cannabis genetics, it's important to recognize that no Ayurvedic practitioner is entirely against cannabis use. This plant holds great significance for Indian spirituality and medicine. Many experts, however, call for a mindful approach, so as not to become overly dependent on this spiritual tool.

Safety considerations and responsible practice

Beyond the Ayurvedic debate, there is also an important ethical discussion around ganja yoga that deserves careful consideration.

Yoga teachers who offer cannabis yoga classes bear enormous responsibility for the well-being and care of their students. Different cannabis genetics affect people very differently, and there are countless strains, each with its own unique chemical profile of cannabinoids and terpenes.

A cannabis strain with a relaxing profile that is ideal for one person can trigger paranoia, numbness or even dizziness in another. A dose that is relaxing and uplifting for one person may be too weak or too strong for someone else.

Pros and cons of cannabis yoga

The practice of ganja yoga can bring certain potential benefits:

  • Greater concentration and focus
  • Deep relaxation
  • Heightened sensory perception
  • Reduced anxiety
  • Better mind-body connection

As with anything, however, there are also potential drawbacks that must be taken into account:

  • Impaired coordination
  • Possible drop in blood pressure
  • In some cases, reduced concentration
  • Unpredictable individual reactions
  • Risk of psychological dependence

It's important to remember that every collectible genetic has a unique terpene and cannabinoid profile that determines its aromatic properties and potential effects, making the experience highly individual and variable.