Hints To Stop Smoking
If you are new to quitting smoking, congratulations! You have just embarked on a journey that will eventually lead you to a healthier body and a life without dependency and addiction. However, you have a lot to learn. These hints to stop smoking will help you in your quest for finally dropping your cigarette habit for good.
First, know that you don’t have to quit cold turkey. It’s common knowledge that it only takes three or four days for your body to purge itself of the nicotine in your system. Many new ex-smokers assume that if they can keep from smoking for that amount of time, they will be able to stay off cigarettes.
While some people manage to quit this way, it isn’t easy. Even after the withdrawal symptoms fade, your struggle isn’t over. Your brain continues to crave the stimulation of nicotine for weeks after you’ve puffed your last cigarette.
Fortunately, there are a variety of different anti-smoking tools and methods that will help you control your cravings. Determining what’s right for you may seem like a daunting task, but these hints to stop smoking will narrow down your search for the right treatment.
For example, many ex-smokers turn to the nicotine patch. This provides an easy, simple way to treat your withdrawal symptoms and calm your cravings. Many patches provide 24 hour relief, allowing you to gradually lower your dosage until you are able to live without the nicotine in your system.
However, for some, using just the patch may not be enough. Some common hints to stop smoking include learning ways to combat the inevitable restlessness that sets in during your first few weeks without a cigarette.
For instance, you can calm the urge to reach for a cigarette by keeping small puzzles, stress balls, and other distractions close at hand. Holding a pencil or a straw the same way you would a cigarette also helps.
More hints to stop smoking include using nicotine gum or lozenges to further control your cravings. As the weeks progress, some prefer to simply chew regular gum or suck hard candy. While this is perfectly fine, be sure to choose sugar free candies in order to prevent cavities.
Most of all, don’t give up. It’s not the end of the world if your discipline wavers and you reach for a cigarette. It may simply be that you haven’t found the treatment that works for you.
One of the most useful hints to stop smoking is to keep an anti-smoking diary. This way, should you relapse, you will know what triggered it. It also provides a handy log should you decide to discuss your condition with your doctor or therapist.
Whether you’re quitting for health reasons, for personal growth, or simply to save money, beginning your quest is the biggest and most difficult step in the process. The longer you stick with it, the better you’ll feel. With any luck, these hints to stop smoking will help you as the weeks progress.