Ramadan as a non-practicing Muslim

I am Brazilian, with Christian ancestry, and my family practices the Christian penance of abstaining from something we really enjoy (mostly meat and alcohol). But I am not a practicing Christian, vegetarian and not an alcohol enthusiast.. in fact, I have been practicing Buddhism. But I believe in all major religions; they all have their historical validity.

As a frequent cannabis user and master's student, I believe it would be very beneficial to perform the penance of abstaining from the herb. I am very interested in Islam and would like to respect the tradition of Ramadan with this penance of mine.

I would like to know what practices/prayers should be done during this period to respect and strengthen myself during this time?

Thank you for your patience, as I am a layman in the traditions of Islam.