For many weed smokers, toking up first thing in the morning is their breakfast of champions. The practice of “wake and bake” is something that many cannabis consumers subscribe to, with just under 22% of American weed smokers saying they love to imbibe in the A.M.
The origins of the term wake and bake are a bit hazy, but the phrase is often credited to 1960s Grateful Dead fans who recommended waking and baking, particularly on the high stoner holiday of 4/20. There is no right way to wake and bake; some people reach for a joint when they open their eyes, while others like to wait and enjoy a nice bowl or dab alongside coffee or tea.
And while everyone’s wake-and-bake experience looks a bit different, there are a few ways to enhance the practice and start the day off on the right foot. Curious about how to properly wake and bake?
Curating the perfect wake-and-bake morning routine
Waking and baking isn’t rocket science, but many people wonder how to make their experience the best it can be. Mainly, it comes down to picking the best weed and proper storage.
Want to wake and bake right? Here are four easy steps:
- Wake up.
- Choose a strain of cannabis with a terpene blend that has energizing effects.
- Roll up, pack a bowl, or fire up a dab.
- Store leftover product properly for next time.
The key steps are two and four. When deciding which type of cannabis to consume first thing in the morning, it’s essential to consider how it’s likely to make you feel. The terpene profile of any given strain mainly determines this. Terpenes are the chemical compounds in cannabis (and all plants) responsible for their unique aroma, flavor, and effects.
But which terpenes are best for a wake-and-bake sesh?
The best wake-and-bake strains terpenes
Many cannabis consumers assume the strain name of a particular type of weed is its calling card or the classification of indica, sativa, or hybrid. But understanding cannabis terpenes and their unique profiles is the true way to understand how a variety may affect you.
There are hundreds of terpenes in the natural world, but eight cannabis terpenes are most prevalent in your bud. Here are three terpenes likely to offer a quick pick-me-up, perfect for your wake-and-bake sesh:
Limonene – Also found in citrus fruits, this tartly sweet terpene is known for its uplifting and energizing effects. Limonene has been linked to elevating mood and is found in strains such as Lemon Haze, Strawberry Banana, and Do-Si-Dos. Unsurprisingly, limonene has a lemony smell and taste.
Pinene – Fresh and evergreen, pinene is a pleasant terpene that will set your day up for success. Also present in pine trees, pinene is typically not dominant in any particular weed strain, instead playing a supporting role. Find it in strains like Dutch Treat, Critical Mass, and Snoop’s Dream.
Terpinolene – Considered the rarest of the primary cannabis terpenes, terpinolene is beloved thanks to its uniquely heady effects. This hazy-flavored terpene is present in a number of weed strains, such as Jack Herer, Silver Haze, and Mountain Sage.
Now that you know which terpenes are best for your wake and bake, it’s time to explore how to preserve them.
Protecting your terpenes
As it turns out, the terpenes in your weed are at risk. These precious molecules evaporate when cannabis dries over time, making your bud less potent and enjoyable. If you want your wake-and-bake experience to be all it can be, proper storage is a must.
What does proper cannabis storage look like? It begins with using an airtight container like a C-Vault or Boveda Fresh Stash bag. These containers prevent air from getting in, are opaque to block light (essential to preventing oxidation). Make sure to always keep your stash out of direct sunlight, preferably in a cool, dark place.
Whatever container you use, a Boveda is crucial. It’s the only two-way humidity control pack designed to keep weed fresh by preventing it from drying out or growing mold. Made from all-natural, made from saturated salt solution inside a semipermeable membrane, you can put it right alongside your cannabis. If the environment is dry, the pack gives off moisture. If it’s humid, it absorbs moisture.
And Boveda is available in several sizes, so whether you have an eighth, an ounce, or even five pounds, you’ll be good to go.
5 Tips for a Wake-and-Bake Sesh
Now that you know which cannabis terpenes are best for a wake-and-bake sesh, you may wonder: what are some other ways to enhance the experience?
- Always store your cannabis correctly. Use an airtight container with a Boveda.
- Drink a glass of water to prevent dehydration.
- Make sure you have adequate smoking supplies, such as papers or a freshly cleaned pipe.
- Prepare a delicious coffee drink if you enjoy them since pairing cannabis and coffee can be an exquisite experience.
- Ensure you have something to eat; breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and you’ll likely have the munchies once the sesh is through.
By following these tips and smoking the right bud, you’re sure to have a successful wake-and-bake sesh every time.
Waking and baking: a perfect pot pick-me-up
Plenty of cannabis consumers love a good wake and bake. It gets you elevated and helps you face the day with a renewed zest for life. It may not be for everyone, but those who enjoy the practice swear that a good wake and bake can makes or break their day.
Enjoying a perfect A.M. sesh is easy. All it takes is choosing the right terpenes for a wake and bake, staying hydrated, having some healthy whole foods on hand, and properly storing your cannabis. Do all of these things, and you’re sure to have an epic day ahead.
