Quitting smoking is a long battle uphill.
It doesn’t happen at the snap of fingers or overnight. A
compulsive smoker will light up a fag at every chance they get. Years of
smoking has made them react to every emotion that they experienced by lighting
up a cigarette.
When they feel happy, they
smoke. To celebrate something, a cigarette. Angry and feeling tired? The answer
is obvious now isn’t it? The automatic response will be to reach out for
cigarette and take a puff. It has almost become like a reflex response. All
these combined with our body’s addiction to smoking, it makes it even more
difficult for us to quit smoking. So before you have the urge to smoke,
memorize this mantra. H.A.L.T ( Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired ) Most of your
cravings can be checked into these four categories.
When you are feeling hungry, do
not reach for the cigarette. Your body is asking for food but your brain is
interpreting it as a sign to smoke. Eat food instead. Have a healthy snack or a meal. Perhaps a raw
carrot or an apple. Remember to have to have three square meals a day. At every
other time, if your body is still urging you to smoke, drink a glass of water
to silence your cravings. Not only does it have zero calories. It’s good for
you.
When you are feeling angry, find
an alternative coping mechanism or an outlet for your anger. Do not replace
your smoking addiction with another addiction like drinking alcohol. Find
healthy and positive alternatives. An
example of that would be talking out your frustration with your spouse or a
close friend. You could take up exercise such as tennis or swimming. Let it all
out when you are running and just leave it there. Don’t let it simmer and
explode.
If you are lonely or bored, do
something to occupy your time. Smoking is not a way to occupy your time. To
waste your money and health maybe. Take action and redirect your boredom
somewhere. You could always join social activities such as hiking groups or
book clubs. This all will give you the opportunity to make new friends and
bring something positive into your life.
If you are fatigued by a day’s
work, smoking is not going to give you the relaxation you need. Take a nap or
go to bed early. Book yourself for a nice relaxing massage. That is what your
body needs, some pampering!
It may seem that getting clean
is a never ending battle but be patient and have some faith in yourself. Soon
you will be able to break the habit and enjoy the long lasting freedom you
deserve.
If you need to learn more about trying to quit smoking tips
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