It’s that time of year: we can feel the suggestion of the spring thaw in our bones. We’re tempted to start going out more, and maybe even to initiate a thorough spring clean, aka Tidying Up™. While cannabis is often seen as a tool to unwind and sink into the couch, it can also be consumed strategically to give a boost of energy.

For most people, when looking for a productive pick-me-up, sativa and sativa-dominant hybrids are the go-to. Experts warn, though, that not all sativas should be expected to be uplifting, and not all indicas will turn us into couch potatoes.

It’s important to pay attention to the strain’s individual profile to figure out what it may do for you.

Here are some of the best Canadian strains available on the legal market for kicking your productivity into high gear again: Join the Leafly Canada Community NEWS, EVENTS, PRODUCT REVIEWS, AND MORE! SIGN UP

This sativa-dominant hybrid cross from DNA Genetics balances the perky effects of Chocolope with the soothing notes of Exodus Cheese, making for a truly fool-proof choice if you’re looking for a mood boost. It’s a solid pick for tackling the most-dreaded entries on your to-do list, since it has the added benefit of aiding in focus, or, if you’re getting out more, socializing with people. The effects are long-lasting, thanks to a higher THC content of up to 28%.

This one’s not for the newbs, hmkay? That said, this sativa-dominant strain can, in low doses, boost creativity and lend humour to just about any situation, even a garage cleanout. The lovechild of MK Ultra and East Coast Sour Diesel is high in the terpene caryophyllene, which is found in many essential oils and is known to be a balm for depression and anxiety, so should make you feel pretty lifted. You may want to buy some eye drops with it, though, as it can lead to some intense dry eye.

Tokyo Smoke must have had reinvention on its mind when it created this sativa in partnership with Aphria. With a THC content of up to 26%, the company promises “an exhilarating burst of energy and creativity,” ideal for finishing (or starting) that DIY project, or running glow-related errands. Even the scent is uplifting: pine, pepper, and citrus combined.

This woodsy, citrusy strain gives a seriously euphoric, zingy effect. It feels like chugging a couple of espressos back to back and then… well, have you seen the movie Crank? It’s something like that. Basically, if you need to give your living room a fresh coat of paint this weekend or finish that writing project that’s been nagging at you, this three-time High Times Cannabis Cup winner is for you.

Warlock is a strain promoting pure focus and stress reduction. It’s an indica-dom, but it’s sharp and stimulating due to the Skunk influence. Its other parent is Afghani, so it can both relax the body and sharpen the mind, so it’s an ideal pick for organizing your life, making to-do lists, and crossing them off.

Sarah Ratchford Sarah Ratchford is a weed witch and a coffee fiend. When they are not writing, they are out in the New Brunswick forest learning your basic pioneer stuff: canning, sewing, cooking, and making. View Sarah Ratchford's articles