There is no easy way to stop smoking. It’s a tough decision, and requires a great deal of will power to implement. The first step is to fix a stop date. This incidentally is the easiest, because the date is not immediate.
However, your determination lies in giving up smoking from that date. You can quit smoking gradually over the course of time or be a cold turkey. The latter is a common term used for people who smoke till the stop date and then give up smoking completely on that date.
The reason why smoking is so difficult to let go is because of the withdrawal symptoms one experiences on quitting smoking. These are commonly mood swings, irritability and anxiety. Therefore it is important to register with clinics or support programs that can help you pull through this difficult phase.
Nicotine Replacement Therapy is a commonly preferred option by most addicts. The cigarettes are replaced by nicotine gum and patches whose use over a period of time reduces your cravings gradually. These are available over the counters as well as by prescription.
Take care to dispose all the ashtrays or any other reminders from your offices as well as home. Drink a lot of fluids or fruit juices instead of alcohol. It is essential to stay away from places and people who can increase the urge for a smoke. You can use your free time in pursuit of a newly discovered hobby or maybe visit a non- smoking support program
Acupressure and Acupuncture are alternative methods adopted by many people for stopping smoking. Regular exercise and a healthy non fatty diet can improve your health and will leave you feeling energetic. Yoga and walking are also very beneficial.
Lastly write down the reasons for quitting and read it every time you reach out for a smoke. Keep record of the number of days you haven’t smoked and tell yourself that you can keep it going. Treat yourself with the money that has been saved by not buying cigarettes. The biggest triumph would, however, be if you could influence others into giving up smoking.
