Cannabis, Dopamine & Performance — The Intentional Use Guide

Saint Campodonico

3d • Daily Dose

Most athletes don’t realize they’re training dopamine just as much as muscle.

Dopamine drives:

• motivation

• consistency

• focus

• follow-through

When dopamine is overstimulated, performance drops.When it’s regulated, performance improves.

How Cannabis Interacts with Dopamine

Cannabis doesn’t “flood” dopamine like stimulants do.

Instead:

• THC modulates dopamine release (dose-dependent)

• CBD helps regulate dopamine reuptake

• The result is reduced mental noise and improved task engagement when used intentionally

This is why some people feel calmer, more focused, and more consistent — while others feel foggy when dosage or timing is wrong.

Research: Neuropsychopharmacology (2019) confirms cannabinoids influence dopaminergic signaling without the spike-and-crash pattern seen in stimulants.

When Cannabis SUPPORTS Performance

Cannabis can be supportive when:

• used in low to moderate doses

• paired with movement or structured activity

• used intentionally (not habitually)

• timing is correct

Best use cases:

• low-intensity training

• mobility and recovery work

• creative or focus-based tasks

• nervous system regulation

When Cannabis HURTS Performance

Cannabis works against performance when:

• dosage is too high

• used reactively for avoidance

• paired with overstimulation (screens, chaos, stress)

• used without structure

Signs you’re misusing it:

• loss of drive

• mental fog

• inconsistency

• motivation without execution

The Intentional Dopamine Protocol (Simple)

Before use, ask one question:“What am I supporting right now — focus, recovery, or creativity?”

Guidelines:

• Low dose only

• Use before movement, not inactivity

• Pair with breathwork or a warm-up

• Avoid stacking with stimulants

• Avoid late-night use if motivation is the goal

Cannabis is not the driver — it’s the regulator.

Final Note

This plant doesn’t replace discipline.

It supports regulation.

Used correctly, cannabis helps you do the work — not escape it.

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