One of the most addictive legal substances on the market is tobacco, commonly consumed in cigarettes and cigars. Though it is known that these products contain chemicals and that burning of them creates carcinogens, there are still many people who smoke. This is often because quitting smoking can be a very challenging thing for many. Fortunately, it is possible for those who are ready to give them up and have found the right tools to help them.
If you are among the people who are looking for how to stop smoking permanently, there are several things that you can do to increase your chances of success. Although it may be difficult at times, you can make this important life change. Try these things to help you quit smoking cigarettes permanently:
Keep a Smoking Journal
Every smoker has certain times and situations that cause them to light up, often without thinking about it. As you are preparing to quit, start making a log of when you smoke. Note what is going on, including how you are feeling and the reason you decided to have a cigarette.
By gaining awareness of your motivations, you will be able to start developing ideas for alternatives to smoking cigarettes. Also, by taking the time to write down when you are smoking, you are increasing your awareness of just how much you actually are smoking.
Plan for Alternatives
One of the reasons that quitting smoking can be difficult for some people is that they become bored or uncertain of what to do at certain times. Having a plan in place for times when you usually smoke can help you to remain on your non-smoking path.
For instance, if you usually have a cigarette after eating, you may want to plan a small walk after meals. On break at work, you may make plans to stretch, read, play a game or any other activity that will fit into the time you have.
Clean Your Home and Vehicle
When you are ready to quit, you need to get the paraphernalia and odors out of your life. Throwing away ashtrays and washing everything will give your belongings a fresh smell while you remove the reminders from your home. In addition to making everything look and smell better, this will also give you something you can do when you are craving a cigarette.
Find Support
There are many support groups for those who are seeking to break the tobacco habit. You can look in your local newspaper for meetings or find a group that meets online. The people who have been able to quit smoking cigarettes permanently are happy to share their experiences and suggestions with others who are trying also. This is a great way to reinforce your decision.
Drink Water
There are many toxins in cigarettes that need to be removed. Drinking several glasses each day will help to flush them from your system. If you find plain water unappealing, try adding a twist of lemon or lime into each glass. Do not drink a bunch of sugary beverages that may actually impede the efforts of your body to get the toxins out.
Eat Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Fresh produce is filled with vitamins and minerals that can help to heal the body. Years of smoking damages every system in the body, all the way at the cellular level. Eating produce will help to remove the toxins and improve cellular health and reproduction. Not only that, eating well is just good for you!
Let Others Know
Tell your friends, family and coworkers that you are intending to stop smoking permanently and ask for their support. This includes things like not asking you to go outside for a cigarette or offering you one. In addition, this lets them know why you may be experiencing withdrawal and other symptoms.
Quitting smoking permanently is a challenge that you can absolutely be successful with taking on. Use each of these suggestions to help you plan for success. Although it may be hard at times, you can do it as long as you remain committed to the task. Even if you slip up, do not give up. You will look and feel better about yourself and your entire life once you do.
