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Great American Smokeout: 5 Things You Can Do To Help You Stop Smoking
Everyone knows smoking is bad, but it’s also an amazingly addictive habit. Quitting smoking has been compared to getting off of heroin, and to some it may feel worse. Nevermind the smoking side effects! Not only is smoking addictive physically, but it’s also an emotional and social connection. People bond over smoking, there are ’smoke breaks’ and smoking can give comfort when needed. But let’s face it–it’s a nasty habit that doesn’t lead to anything positive. Here are some replacement behaviors for you to use the next time you want to light up:
1) Breathe Deep. For some people, the inhaling of the cigarette smoke is the only time during the day they take a deep breath. Why not try that deep breathing without the smoke? A few rounds of deep breaths will give you a different kind of buzz.
2) Chew some gum and hold a pencil. Sounds silly, but a lot of the connection to cigarettes can be an oral and/or manual fix. Replace the butt with something different, and healthier.
3) Go for a walk. Instead of clogging up your body and mind with toxins and smoke, give it a chance to clear. Smoking breaks can often signal a need to escape or take a moment to regroup. Going for a walk around the block, complex, or building can give you a mental break while being physically productive.
4) Drink some water. Maybe you’re bored so you decide to have a cigarette, or you’re tired so you want a perk-up. Chugging some water is a better solution and will give you energy by revitalizing you from the inside out.
5) Call a friend. Changing habits can be difficult! Call a friend for support, tell him what you’re doing–how you’re trying to quit smoking and ask for reinforcement. I’m sure he’d be happy to help.
Quitting smoking can be the best thing you can do for your health! Changing habits can be hard, but with the right support and foundation, it can lead to a healthy, happier life. For more information on how to get happier and healthier, “Get Healthy” is for those looking to make a change in their lifestyle habits, but aren’t sure where to start.
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