When minutes feel like hours
Have you ever used cannabis and had the feeling that time passes much more slowly – or even faster? You are not alone. Many users report an altered perception of time under the influence of cannabis. But why is that? In this article, we dive deep into neuroscience to understand how THC (the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis) affects the brain and why it manipulates our sense of time.
How does cannabis affect our perception of time?
The role of the brain: THC and the internal clock
Our brain has a complex system for perceiving time, which is primarily anchored in the prefrontal cortex and the basal ganglia. THC interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for memory, mood and – yes – a sense of time, among other things.
Studies show that THC slows down signal processing in the brain. As a result, the brain can no longer accurately estimate time intervals. A study by the University of Barcelona found that test subjects under the influence of THC estimated time intervals to be significantly longer than they actually were.
Dopamine & time dilation: why everything seems slower
THC increases the release of dopamine, which not only provides the “high” feeling, but also distorts the subjective perception of time. Dopamine plays a key role in how we perceive time – an excess can make seconds feel like minutes.
Practical effects: From movie night to driving
Everyday situations under the influence of cannabis
Music & movies: Many users report that music seems more intense and movies seem longer.
Conversations: Conversations can “drag on” because the brain takes longer to process information.
Impaired driving: The distorted perception of time is one reason why driving under the influence of cannabis is dangerous – reaction times are greatly slowed down.
Tips for a more conscious approach
Control dosage: Lower THC doses lead to less severe distortions.
Set & setting: It is easier to deal with the changed perception in a familiar environment.
Meditation & mindfulness: Some users use the altered perception of time for deeper relaxation.
Scientific studies & long-term effects
Research findings suggest that chronic cannabis use could have a lasting effect on our perception of time. A study by King’s College London found a slightly reduced ability to correctly estimate short time intervals in long-term users.
Conclusion: Sense of time & cannabis – curse or blessing?
Cannabis alters the perception of time through its effect on the endocannabinoid system and dopamine. While this is a pleasant effect for some, it can be problematic in other situations. If you consume consciously, you can learn to deal with it – but caution is still required, especially in traffic.
Source: https://cannawayz.com/blog/health-stories/why-does-cannabis-play-with-your-sense-of-time