Everybody is aware of the fact that smoking is bad for health, including the smokers. Another known fact about smoking is that it’s really difficult to give it up. But nothing is impossible, right? Let’s take a look at these methods which are scientifically proven to work.
1. Resort to Prescription Drugs
If you are habitual smoker, staying away from cigarettes is not the solution. How much you try not to light a cigarette the nicotine will induce a craving for it in the body and mind. Experts suggest medicines like varenicline reduce this craving and the so called pleasurable feeling one gets after smoking.
2. Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT).
One of the most common methods resorted to quit smoking is NRT. Since the body is always in a need of nicotine, you feed yourself with tiny amounts of nicotine so that the temptation and craving is controlled. You don’t actually smoke but getting the same feeling. Various forms of NRT include nicotine sprays, gums and patches etc help you overcome your addiction.
3. Regular Exercise
Exercising regularly can help quit smoking. Studies reveal that people, who have an active life, work out, take good care of their body and don’t resort to bad habits like smoking. Exercises reduce the stress level and relaxing you, reduce the craving. Many people claim stress to be the reason behind why they smoke which is well taken care of with exercises.
4. Other Alternatives
When your mouth is occupied somewhere, there won’t be any urge to smoke. For example sugar free gums are an amazing alternative which are good to taste, keep our mouth occupied and do not contain any harmful chemicals.
5. Join a Support Group
It is always good to talk to people who have experienced what you are going through. They inspire and motivate you by sharing their experiences.
6. Travel
Many people start smoking because they are stressed out or depressed. So it’s important to relax and forget all the worries. Just hit the road, go on a long drive and feel fresh. When at work, instead of smoking during breaks, take a walk. You can also plan holidays. It helps in reducing stress and is fun.
7. Stay Away from Smokers
In the initial phase it is better to avoid the company of people who smoke. If you see somebody smoking there is an obvious urge to smoke. It can affect your determination so it is better to stay away from smokers.
8. Set a Date
Challenge yourself by setting up a date when you will finally quit. It is important that your goal is realistic. If you are a heavy smoker and decide to quit is a week’s time, it is obviously not going to work.
9. Eat Healthy
Follow a healthy diet. It keeps your body fit and helps you fight withdrawal symptoms.
10. Cold Turkey
Cold turkey means giving up on any addiction suddenly. Say no to cigarettes, gums, patches etc. It will be difficult initially, but once you succeed there is no looking back.
So try it out and keep your body free from all the harmful effects of smoking.
