Here at Delta, we always aim to be positive – taking every day as a blessing and embracing new challenges with zeal and energy.
But let’s be real, some days can be a struggle.
Between work deadlines, social obligations, and the endless stream of notifications on your phone, it’s no wonder stress levels are through the roof. We all have our go-to ways of unwinding—some hit the gym, others binge-watch Netflix, and for many, a good drink is the ultimate way to take the edge off.
But what if that drink didn’t have to be loaded with sugar, caffeine, or alcohol? What if it could actually help you relax in a natural way?
Welcome to THC drinks! A refreshing, easygoing alternative that’s gaining popularity as a stress-relief aid With their controlled doses, fast-acting effects, and socially acceptable format, THC seltzers are making it easier than ever to find a moment of calm amidst the chaos.
How Cannabinoids Work to Relieve Stress
Cannabis has been used as medicine for thousands of years, dating back to around 2800 BC in ancient China. It was listed in an official publication by Emperor Shen Nong1 as a medicinal drug for treating pain, inflammation, and various ailments. In India, Ayurvedic2 texts have praised the stress-relieving properties of cannabis3, and by the 19th century it was adopted in the Western world to treat pain, muscle spasms, and sleep disorders.
However, prohibition4 in the 20th century halted its medical use until recent decades, when research and legalization efforts revived its role as a natural alternative to pharmaceuticals, especially for chronic pain, anxiety, and sleep.
So, how does cannabis work as a natural stress reliever? It all comes down to how cannabinoids—like THC and CBD—interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is responsible for an array of mental and physical functions and helps keep things like mood, sleep, and stress levels in check.
CBD has been shown to promote relaxation5 by influencing serotonin receptors in the brain, much like pharmaceutical anti-anxiety medications. Small doses of THC (5-10mg) have been found to reduce stress6 by easing tension, calming the mind, and boosting dopamine levels.
Working together (and in the right quantities), THC and CBD create a balanced effect that can help reduce anxiety, allowing you to channel your energies into getting things done – be it work, exercise, or just a good night’s sleep.
Why Choose THC Drinks for Stress Relief?
There are more ways than ever to consume cannabis – from tinctures and edibles to vapes and traditional smoking. But when it comes to stress relief, THC drinks offer some considerable advantages that may make you more likely to reach for a can:
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Discreet & Convenient – No smoke, no prep, no nasty lingering smells. THC seltzers are easy to take out for the day or keep stocked in the fridge at home. When you’re ready, just crack open a can, sip, and relax.
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Predictable Dosing – Unlike edibles, which take longer to kick in and can sometimes hit unpredictably, THC drinks use nanoemulsion technology to provide a consistent dose per sip. This means you can gently increase the dosage to find your desired level, rather than waiting and hoping an edible doesn’t hit too hard.
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Fast-Acting Effects – While edibles can take over an hour to kick in, THC drinks start working within 15-30 minutes, making it easier to gauge the effects and have a controlled experience.
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A Better Alternative to Alcohol – Instead of numbing stress with booze, THC seltzers offer a way to unwind that actually supports your well-being. They often contain little to no calories or sugar so they can fit in with just about any health or diet regimen. Plus they don’t give you a hangover!
Key Benefits of THC Seltzers for Managing Stress
We all experience stress differently, but for most of us, it shows up in three main ways: mentally, physically, and in our sleep patterns. How can THC drinks help in these areas?
Calming the Mind
Do you ever feel like your brain just won’t shut off? Racing thoughts, overanalyzing conversations, or just feeling “on edge” all the time? Low doses of CBD and THC work together via the entourage effect to promote a sense of calm that helps quieten mental noise.
Physical Relaxation
Stress doesn’t just live in your head—it takes a toll on your body too. Tense shoulders, tight jaw, stress headaches? THC’s muscle-relaxing properties7 help ease built-up tension, while CBD works to reduce inflammation, leaving you feeling physically lighter.
Improved Sleep Quality
We all know the vicious cycle: stress makes it harder to sleep, and lack of sleep makes stress worse8. THC drinks can help break the cycle by promoting relaxation before bed, helping you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. No more tossing and turning, just deep, restorative sleep.
As cannabis experts, we at Delta suggest choosing a drink that contains THC indica or is a hybrid strain to maximize the calming effect. You can choose from any of our Delta Light THC seltzers for a light and balanced sensation.
If you’re a more seasoned connoisseur, why not try our hugely popular indica Blood Orange Cannabis Water, or either of our hybrid offerings – Pink Lemonade and Blueberry Acai.
When and How to Incorporate THC Drinks Into Your Routine
Stress has a way of creeping in at all hours of the day. Luckily, THC seltzers are easy to integrate into your lifestyle, no matter when you need a reset or moment of calm.
Post-Work Wind Down
After work drinks are a staple of just about any sociable work environment and THC seltzers are a perfect alternative to alcohol. They let you enjoy the relaxing benefits of THC without feeling excluded from the group vibe. And if you’re more the self-care type, THC drinks are a perfect replacement for an evening glass of wine.
Workout Motivation
Yes, you read that correctly. While the old cliche of the “lazy stoner” still lingers, many people aren’t aware that THC can boost your workout. As well as reducing anxiety around competition, cannabis has been shown to increase motivation9 and enjoyment of exercise. So next time you have a gruelling weight session or you don’t feel like going for a run, try a sip or two of your favorite THC seltzer and see how you feel.
Weekend Recharge
Whether you’re hanging out at home or heading to a picnic with friends, THC drinks can add a laid-back vibe to any social setting. Swap out your usual beer or cocktail for a refreshing cannabis-infused seltzer and ease into the moment without the sluggish aftereffects of alcohol.
Pre-Bedtime Routine
Struggling to fall asleep? A low-dose THC seltzer can help you ease into sleep without the grogginess of traditional sleep aids. THC interacts with your body's endocannabinoid system, promoting relaxation and reducing tension, making it easier to transition into a deep, restful sleep.
Finding Your Perfect Dose
Everyone’s body responds differently to THC, so finding your ideal dose is key to having a great experience.
If you’re new to THC drinks, start with 2.5-5mg and see how you feel before increasing – that’s the equivalent of half to a full can of Delta Light. More experienced users might enjoy something a little stronger, in the 10-20mg range. Of course, you can still take it sip by sip to gauge the effects.
Remember, the goal is always to find that sweet spot where you feel calm, clear, and in control.
Delta’s Top Tips for Safe and Enjoyable Sipping
If you’re new to cannabis or an experienced smoker trying something new, here are some tips that will ensure you get the most out of each sip.
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Start Slow – It can take a few tries to dial in your perfect dose. If you’re trying a low-THC drink (5mg), start with half a can and wait about half an hour before having some more.
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Know Your Tolerance – Everyone metabolizes THC differently. If you’re sensitive, choose a drink with a balanced CBD-to-THC ratio for a smoother onset of effects and try eating something first.
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Always Choose Quality – Not all THC drinks are created equal. Look for brands that use natural ingredients, third-party testing, and that display their COAs.
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Be Mindful of Mixing – If you take medications, check with a healthcare professional to avoid unwanted interactions and effects. We strongly suggest not mixing THC with any other substances or alcohol.
Sip Your Way to a Stress-Free Day
In today’s fast-paced world, finding effective and enjoyable ways to manage stress is more important than ever. THC drinks offer a refreshing solution—one that fits seamlessly into daily life while delivering real relaxation benefits.
Whether you’re looking to unwind after a hectic day, ease stress-induced tension, or simply sleep better at night, THC drinks are a natural solution that can be incorporated into any routine or diet. Just remember to dose responsibly and listen to your body.
So next time things start to feel overwhelming, crack open a can, take a deep breath, and let the stress melt away one sip at a time.
- https://thcmuseum.org/the-history/
- https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/ayurveda
- https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rstb.2011.0389
- https://www.mpp.org/issues/legalization/marijuana-prohibition-facts/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4604171/#:~:text=CBD%20exhibits%20a%20broad%20range,prevention%20of%20the%20long%2Dterm
- https://today.uic.edu/low-dose-thc-can-relieve-stress-more-does-just-the-opposite/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK224382/
- https://www.columbiapsychiatry.org/news/how-sleep-deprivation-affects-your-mental-health
- https://www.colorado.edu/today/2024/01/03/study-cannabis-can-make-workouts-more-fun-its-no-performance-enhancer