Shivratri is here and what adds to this much-awaited festival that celebrates Lord Shiva is bhang, a traditional drink prepared on this occasion. If legends are to be believed, when Lord Shiva drank the poison during Samundra Manthan to protect the universe from destruction, his throat turned blue and the poison led to the generation of a lot of heat in his body. That’s when Lord Shiva was offered bhang. Bhang is a coolant that is said to cool and relax the body.
Shivratri celebrations are deemed incomplete without drinking up some bhang. However, it is not for everyone. Cannabis is illegal in Nepal, but permitted as a religious ritual for ascetics during the festival, which took place at the weekend. The only explanation for this is that the ascetics are imitating Shiva. But if you are planning to drink some this season, make sure you have it safely to prevent any health ailments. This article is strictly not to encourge you to consume Bhang but just to drink it safely for religious significance. Here are some tips that can help you consume bhang safely this Shivratri.
Keep Yourself Hydrated
Bhang is offered in multiple forms on the occasion of Shivratri. Whichever form you consume, make sure you drink a lot of water throughout the day because bhang is believed to dehydrate your body.
Consume Bhang When You Are Full
Never consume bhang on an empty stomach. Drinking it that way will only make you feel uncomfortable throughout the day. Also, since bhang is high on intoxication, it isn’t a great idea to drink it on an empty stomach. Always have a substantial, heavy meal before drinking a glass of bhang.
Don’t Mix Bhang With Anything
Avoid mixing bhang with other drinks. Each drink has its own unique composition and consuming bhang with another drink can harm your health.
Take Breaks In Between
Remember that bhang will always take time to kick in your body. Make sure that you don’t chug one glass after an other just to get high in a jiffy, because you won’t. Take it easy. Drink a glass and then let the bhang do the magic. Drinking too much bhang all at once will only make you feel uneasy later.
Don’t Take Painkillers
If you will be trying bhang for the first time this year, let us tell you that it might make your head feel heavy. However, avoid taking a painkiller as it can worsen things for you and lead to nausea. Instead, go for a bath with cold water as it helps reduce the after-effects of bhang.
Avoid Driving After Drinking Bhang
Bhang is as intense as a glass of alcohol. It isn’t recommended to drive after drinking it.
