Lightkeeper
Well-Known Member
Someone here said they would like to stop smoking, so I thought I would tell you a few things I learned about smoking and stopping smoking. I stopped about 7 1/2 years ago and have never had a cigarette since.
Some misconceptions about smoking:
1. It doesn't calm you, it merely satisfies the nicotine craving. I am much calmer since I quit.
2. You are addicted to nicotine and not to tobacco.
Hints on how to stop:
1. First I cut down and stopped smoking in certain situations. I stopped smoking while on the phone and in the car. I delayed after meal cigarettes and the first morning cigarette. At the end, I was only smoking in one place, the kitchen, standing up.
2. I recommend quitting cold turkey, so you can break the nicotine habit. Remember you are addicted to nicotine.
3. I avoided situations where I had smoked the most. i.e. talked less on the phone.
4. I took walks several times a day. You can run also.
5. If you have an urge for a cigarette, take a deep breath. Smokers don't breath deeply, only when they are dragging on a cigarette. Taking a deep breath emulates dragging on a cigarette. The urge disappears within seconds.
6. I listened to powerful classical music. It gave me power.
7. Peppermint mints or gum is great. When you inhale it gives you a kick in your lungs. like the drag on a cigarette. I especially do the peppermint after meals.
8. Stay away from other smokers and smoky places.
Benefits of not smoking:
You and your clothes no longer smell like stale smoke. You feel great, food tastes great, you are healthier. I have had fewer headaches and colds, etc. I am calmer and happier. I think an addiction holds you back. I am so happy not to be trapped by that habit. It is about forming new habits.
Some misconceptions about smoking:
1. It doesn't calm you, it merely satisfies the nicotine craving. I am much calmer since I quit.
2. You are addicted to nicotine and not to tobacco.
Hints on how to stop:
1. First I cut down and stopped smoking in certain situations. I stopped smoking while on the phone and in the car. I delayed after meal cigarettes and the first morning cigarette. At the end, I was only smoking in one place, the kitchen, standing up.
2. I recommend quitting cold turkey, so you can break the nicotine habit. Remember you are addicted to nicotine.
3. I avoided situations where I had smoked the most. i.e. talked less on the phone.
4. I took walks several times a day. You can run also.
5. If you have an urge for a cigarette, take a deep breath. Smokers don't breath deeply, only when they are dragging on a cigarette. Taking a deep breath emulates dragging on a cigarette. The urge disappears within seconds.
6. I listened to powerful classical music. It gave me power.
7. Peppermint mints or gum is great. When you inhale it gives you a kick in your lungs. like the drag on a cigarette. I especially do the peppermint after meals.
8. Stay away from other smokers and smoky places.
Benefits of not smoking:
You and your clothes no longer smell like stale smoke. You feel great, food tastes great, you are healthier. I have had fewer headaches and colds, etc. I am calmer and happier. I think an addiction holds you back. I am so happy not to be trapped by that habit. It is about forming new habits.
