With the July 1st smoking ban looming large on the horizon no doubt many of you are thinking about stopping smoking.
Start by making your own decision to kick the habit, if you try to stop just to please someone else the chances are you will fail.
Take a sheet of paper and draw a line down the centre, on one side list the reasons to give up, health implications, and think of other people affected such as your family and possibly even future children. Now on the other side of your paper make a realistic list of reasons for continuing to smoke.
Preparing to quit smoking
When you decide to stop smoking chose a date in the near future, if possible pick a time when a change in your normal routine occurs such as a holiday. Do not try to give up smoking in times of stress or anxiety.
Tell your friends and family of your decision they will help to strengthen your resolve, if possible team up with someone else who is determined to stop smoking too, sharing the experience often is a great help.
Make a note or diary of the times that you most want to smoke, this will help you to prepare for them when you finally stop.
Stopping Smoking
When the day to quit arrives, stop carrying cigarettes, matches or a lighter. Hide all ashtrays.
During the first few weeks you may experience moments of anxiety and a deep craving for a cigarette, endure them they will pass. To help keep yourself busy and take more exercise.
When you feel a deep seated urge to smoke, take some deep breaths, eat some nuts or other nutritious snacks (avoid sweets), drink water or fruit juice.
Don’t start worrying about never smoking again, simply take things one day at a time, it makes it easier to conquer the habit.
Remember you do not have to tackle your addiction alone, speak to your Doctor about local support groups, visit the websites ASH and QUIT for more help and advice.
