8 of the Best Strains for Relaxation

The best strain for relaxation can be a great antidote to the relentless rhythm and stress of modern life. Stress or anxiety caused by work, family, health, or money has become an all-too-familiar part of everyday life, and it's easy to get caught up in a cycle of stress and worry.

The good news is that some cannabis strains can help you wind down and replace the oppressive feelings getting you down with blissful stress relief. Look for indica strains and consider inhalation for the maximum calming and soothing effects.

Best Strains for Relaxation

How a particular strain affects you can vary from person to person. The expert budtenders in our Seattle dispensaries will be happy to point out strains they or other clients prefer for relaxation. If you can’t make it to Seattle, try the following relaxing strains:

1. Northern Lights

This famous indica-dominant strain is celebrated by many cannabis users for its relaxing and sedative properties. Northern Lights typically contains 16-21% THC and next to no CBD.

The piney aroma will transport you to a woodland scene gazing at the spectacular Northern Lights, the ultimate ethereal experience to destress and relax. This strain is perfect for an evening of unwinding and pure relaxation.

2. OG Kush

OG Kush is said to decrease stress and anxiety while producing a euphoric high. This indica-dominant strain offers a heavy body high and 18-25% THC.

3. Granddaddy Purple

Granddaddy Purple is one of the strongest indica strains and is well known for its relaxing effects. An indica-dominant strain renowned for its sweet grape flavor, Granddaddy Purple will relax your mind and body and could help you drift off into a deep sleep.

4. Blue Dream

This sativa-dominant hybrid strain with 18% THC offers a head high and full-body relaxation. It is favored by many to treat stress and depression as well as chronic pain and nausea. Consumers enjoy the sweet berry taste and aroma of Blue Dream as well as the feeling of blissful relaxation.

5. Girl Scout Cookies

Girl Scout Cookies is one of the best indica strains for sleep. GSC offers fairly high levels of THC (19%) and a minty flavor and is the perfect antidote for stress and pain. Expect relaxation, euphoria, sleepiness, and maybe even a wave of the munchies.

6. ACDC

ACDC is a standout strain in this list for its high (18%) CBD content and negligible (1%) THC content. This makes ACDC perfect for consumers who wish to sidestep intense psychoactive effects. This strain is said to calm the nerves and diminish anxiety and stress.

7. Lavender

Lavender, just like its plant namesake, is known for its soothing effects. It contains 14-20% THC. The terpene linalool, also found in the lavender plant, gives Lavender its anxiety-relieving effects. Also, expect sedative properties perfect for combating restlessness and insomnia.

8. Purple Kush

Purple Kush is a pure indica strain that offers long-lasting, blissful euphoria to counter feelings of stress or anxiety. The physical relaxation the strain offers is said to rid the body of stress, pain, and sleeplessness. This strain contains around 19% THC and is best taken in the evening for relaxation and sleep.

How to Use Cannabis to Help You Relax

Inhaling cannabis appears to be the best delivery method for helping people relax. A 2019 study reported decreased levels of feelings like stress, anxiety, and irritability in 95.51% of sessions when cannabis was inhaled. The same study noted that:

• Strains with mid to high THC levels were most effective for relaxation.

• CBD isn't associated with reducing stress.

• Indica-dominant strains may be more effective in relieving stress than sativa or hybrid strains.

Finding the best marijuana strains for you will be a case of experimenting. However, strains labeled “indica” and “hybrid” may be more likely to decrease feelings of distress than sativa strains. 

Chill Out with the Most Relaxing Cannabis Strains

The best cannabis strain for relaxation is ultimately a matter of personal preference. However, indica strains with high THC content may be a good place to start.

Cannabis could represent one part of your strategy for reducing stress but addressing the root causes of your feelings is also important. The good news is that your favorite strains will always be there to help you relax along the way!