One of the hardest things to deal with is the intense cravings you get for nicotine when you quit smoking. Nicotine is a highly addictive substance, so many people struggle when they try and stop and often go back to smoking again at some point. However, there are ways that you can help to control your cravings and ensure you do not cave in and go back to smoking. Below are some tips to help you that may aid you to live a smoke-free life once more.
Consider Trying Nicotine Replacement
You may wish to consider nicotine replacement therapy, and there are many products available to help you. You can try nicotine patches, gum, lozenges, and sprays that can all help you control your cravings for nicotine. You can also choose to vape and select a delicious e-cig juice to help you manage your urges and stop you from smoking.
Know Your Triggers
You will have triggers that will increase your urges and cravings and understanding these can help you stay away from smoking. Some people desire to smoke after a meal or with their morning coffee, and it is also common for people to want to smoke when they drink alcohol. Know what your triggers are and try and avoid situations that will make you want to smoke again.
Give Your Mouth Something To Do
Another way that you can help to take your mind off smoking is by giving your mouth something to do. You can try sucking a sweet or chewing gum that will give your mouth something to do and take your mind off your cravings. Ensure that if you eat something, it is healthy, and you can try sunflowers seeds or carrot and celery sticks.
Buddy Up
It will also help you quit smoking if you have someone going through the same experience. You can try buddying up with a friend and stop simultaneously, which means you can support each other as you go through similar situations.
Get Physical & Exercise
You can also use exercise to help take your mind away from smoking, and it will also help improve your overall health. Every time you feel a craving or urge to smoke, do a burst of physical exercise, and take your mind off it. Whether you go for a run, squat in the office, or going up and down stairs till the feeling passes, your body will thank you for it.
Take Up Meditation
Another way to help you keep your mind occupied when you feel the urge to smoke is to try meditation or other relaxation techniques. You can use meditation and breathing to help reduce stress and take the edge off your cravings. Whether you listen to music, practice yoga, or do breathing exercises, you will find that this can make a significant difference and prevent you from going back to smoking.
Ultimately, we are all different, and what works for one person may not work as well for another. Do some experimentation and find out what works for you, and you can help ensure that you stay off the cigarettes and improve your overall health.