Is the decision to finally quit cigarette smoking on top of your 2015 New Year's Resolutions? You're already one step closer to a happier, nicotine free life!
It's never easy to quit an addiction. Here are a few tips that may just help you keep to your resolution one cigarette stick at a time.
Go cold Turkey
Most people may want to go for a more gradual decrease of smoking in order to kick the habit. Others decide to simply set a date to quit and stick to it. No more puffs, no nicotine gums or patches, and no hanging out at smoking areas. It's not a route that works for everybody but going cold turkey might just be the jolt you need to finally say goodbye to the smoking habit.
Replace smoking with a healthier, more active hobby
Whenever you feel the urge to smoke, some people replace it with binge eating. And to avoid replacing one bad habit with another, try taking a peaceful stroll outside instead, which may one day lead to an interest in jogging or running a marathon. Also try to take up yoga in order to help meditate and curb away from nicotine urges. If you need to munch on something, try unsalted nuts or fruits and vegetables instead of junk.
Out of sight, Out of Mind
Once you decide to quit, get rid of all your cigarettes, lighters, ashtrays, smoking paraphernalia, and even tell everyone you know that you are quitting. When all the temptations are out of the way and all your friends and family know you mean business, then it will be easier to resist the urges when they come, especially with a good support system in place to help carry you through the toughest first few days and weeks.
Anticipate and Prepare for Withdrawal Symptoms and Coughing
We're not going to kid you. The first few days will be extremely difficult. Nicotine is addictive, and studies have shown that once the brain loses access to the chemical it has begun to crave, you will go through sometimes unbearable, even painful withdrawal symptoms. These may include headaches, anxiety, irritability, nausea, and even developing a cough. Fortunately, these feelings that make you feel awful are not permanent. "They tend to peak after 12-24 hours, and then gradually ease over 2-4 weeks," according to experts.
Stay Positive
An optimistic attitude is your best bet to finally kick the habit. Even if you relapse, don't get down on yourself. Just remember why you are quitting in the first place - be it for family, health, personal betterment - and stick to your plan. Know that you can do it!
