Monday, November 1, 2010

How to quit Smoking

The first question you have to ask yourself is why you want to quit smoking.

Is it because what the society thinks of you?



Is it because you are having health issues?




Those are usually the 2 questions that come to mind when you want to quit smoking.You might act upon these reasons and decide to quit but most probably you will return to the same old habit again.

The only reason anyone can quit smoking and prevail is if you do it for yourself.

Find out the reason why you started smoking in the first place.

Was it because everyone was doing it?

Was it because of peer pressure?

Was it because of stress?

Whatever the reason was, it has got you addicted to nicotine.Most people do not know that nicotine is very addictive and can cause withdrawal symptoms just like any other drug like marijuana or cocaine.The symptoms may not be as strong but they are there nonetheless.


What is Nicotine Resistance and Dependence:

When we start smoking usually 1 or 2 cigarettes a day is more than enough to satisfy us.As a month or so goes by the quantity increases steadily because our body develops a resistance to nicotine.Now more cigarettes everyday are required to keep us happy.This is called "Resistance".

When we stop smoking to eliminate nicotine from our body, we end up wanting it more.This is because our body has become dependent on its usual supply of nicotine.This is called "Dependence".

Withdrawal Symptoms:

-Headache


-Anxiety


-Nausea


-Craving for more Tobacco

How to Quit Smoking:

1)Focus on why you want to quit.

2)Remember why you started.

3)Whenever you want to get a cigarette think of something else that you would prefer doing.

Like,
               
Exercise - 3 sets of push-ups or go for a walk for 15 - 20 mins.


Gaming - I'm a gamer and when an urge triggers I usually play a game until it is not on my mind anymore.
      
Socialize- Find someone to talk with. Don't talk about smoking.


Eating   -    Eating sometimes helps to fill the void that smoking creates. Keep a tray of healthy snacks that you can munch on when you are watching television or doing something that made you crave a cigarette in the past.

Basically keep your mind preoccupied with something else.

Things, Not to do :

-Just having 1 last cigarette. This is a big mistake, never give in to this feeling of a one last puff. It will only make it worse

-Stay away from people who smoke, places where a lot of smokers gather, etc

I want to conclude by saying that I hope these tips help you quit smoking and thank you for spending your valuable time here. Have a healthy fulfilling life.