Why Cannabis & Romance Are Perfect For Each Other On February 14th
Valentine’s Day is a day to celebrate love, affection, and togetherness – and for many couples, marijuana is becoming an increasingly significant part of that experience. Although the UK currently maintains a restrictive legal position regarding the use of cannabis (the substance is classified as a Class B drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and there is no provision for the lawful use of cannabis for recreational purposes), there is an increasing willingness to explore the role of marijuana in romance and relationships more broadly. In addition to exploring the idea of marijuana and romance through a cultural lens, this article will look at what couples are saying about using marijuana in conjunction with romance in jurisdictions where recreational use of marijuana is permitted.
Why Marijuana and Romance Work So Well Together
Research conducted by Washington State University found that marijuana consumers experienced a greater sense of sexual satisfaction and mindfulness while engaging in intimate activities. When consumed in moderation within legal jurisdictions, marijuana has also been associated with lower levels of social anxiety, higher levels of emotional awareness, and a decrease in the overall rate of speed at which individuals move throughout their daily lives, all of which contribute positively to the formation and maintenance of positive romantic connections.
At the core of February 14th is a focus on being present. Turning off the television, putting away your cell phone, and truly focusing on your partner as you share a meal, laugh, and enjoy each other’s company. Regardless of whether you live in Colorado, Amsterdam, or Bangkok, many couples who include marijuana as part of their Valentine’s Day celebrations find that their evening together is more engaging, more meaningful, and ultimately more memorable than if they had not included marijuana in their celebration.
Creating a Setting for a Marijuana-Infused Valentine’s Night In
If you reside in a jurisdiction in which recreational use of marijuana is permissible, here are some suggestions for creating a marijuana-infused Valentine’s night in:
Element | Suggestion |
Strain choice | Select a strain that is relatively mild and allows for social interaction, such as a hybrid strain such as Blue Dream or a strain that is very low in THC |
Setting | Dim lighting, candles, warm blankets, etc. (hygge) |
Food pairing | Dark chocolate, strawberries, cheese board (flavors that are complementary to terpenes) |
Activity | Cook a meal together slowly, watch a movie, engage in a lengthy conversation with no pre-determined agenda |
Dosing | Low and slow – the intention is not to get high, but to slow down the pace of the evening and create a sense of ritual for both partners. |
Ultimately, the philosophy behind this approach is not about using marijuana to get high. Rather, the intent is to create a subtle shift in the pace of the evening that indicates to both partners that this is a special evening, one that is intended to be spent together and with mutual focus.
What About the UK?
Recreational marijuana is illegal in the United Kingdom. Possession of marijuana is punishable by up to five years imprisonment. Supply of marijuana is punishable by up to 14 years imprisonment. Medical marijuana was legalized in the UK in 2018 for certain medical conditions, provided it is prescribed by a specialist doctor. However, obtaining a prescription for medical marijuana in the UK is difficult for many patients due to the limited availability of licensed doctors.
However, the cultural conversation surrounding marijuana is beginning to shift. Polling conducted by YouGov has consistently shown that a majority of UK adults support some form of decriminalization of marijuana. Police departments in cities like Bristol have begun to deprioritize enforcement of low level marijuana offenses. Additionally, members of Parliament representing the Green Party and Labor Party are actively working towards reform. The likelihood of the UK legalizing marijuana in the near future is uncertain, however, the trend of public opinion is clearly moving toward decriminalization.
In the UK this Valentine’s Day, the take-away message may not be necessarily about marijuana. Instead, the focus should be on the larger concept: slow down, be mindful, and create an evening that feels unique from your average Tuesday evening. There are elements of this approach that can be applied to anyone, regardless of the substances used.
Modern Romance
There is something quiet revolutionary about choosing a quiet evening at home with your partner over a busy dinner reservation. The commercialized Valentine’s industry wants you to buy expensive meals and sit through rushed dinners. The couples who report having the most fulfilling Valentine’s Day experiences are often those who remain at home and cook together while taking time to communicate.
The cannabis culture — especially in areas where marijuana is legally available — has encouraged this type of domestic intimacy for years. At its best, this culture emphasizes presence, creativity, and connection, as opposed to performance. These are values that can be appreciated regardless of what product you consume.
A Note on Responsibility
Regardless of whether we are discussing wine, tea, or marijuana in a jurisdiction where marijuana is legal — the fundamental concepts of a great Valentine’s Day evening are the same. Be aware of your partner’s comfort level. Move at a pace that is acceptable to both partners. Choose a product that will enhance the connection you feel with your partner, not replace it. Great Valentine’s Day evenings are not based on products — they are based on paying attention to your partner.
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