How to Get Through Your First Day When You Quit Smoking

bymountainfree

301 followers

9 years ago

You may find the first day challenging when you're ready to quit smoking, but the benefits to your health and wellbeing make all the effort worthwhile. Get off to a good start by doing everything you can to make the initial hours go by more gently.

Minimize Your Discomfort

1. Keep your mouth busy. Oral satisfaction is a key reason why people smoke. Switch to harmless alternatives like drinking water, chewing sugar free gum, and munching on low calorie snacks.

2. Occupy your hands. While you're at it, give your hands something else to do, too. Knit a scarf or play computer games.

3. Sleep more. Take a nap. Cravings are a lot less noticeable when you're asleep and you'll still be getting the nicotine out of your system.

4. Engage in physical activity. On the other hand, exercise is also beneficial. Aerobic exercise causes your body to release endorphins that enhance your mood.

5. Pick a low stress time. If possible, schedule your first day at a time when you'll be relatively free from stress. Depending on your routine, that may be the week your kids go back to school or sometime after the winter holidays.

6. Set short term goals. Take it one day at a time or even a minute at a time. Reassure yourself that any cravings are temporary.

7. Breathe deeply. Inhaling deeply is another pleasure that you may connect with smoking. Take a break and focus on your breath instead of lighting up.

8. Practice relaxation techniques. Increased irritability is typical for a while when you give up smoking. Practice meditation or listen to instrumental music.

9. Consider cessation aids. Nicotine replacement products make the process easier for many people. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about the options.

Manage Your Triggers

1. Limit alcohol consumption. Alcohol can weaken your willpower. Skip the cocktails and take a walk after work.

2. Get away from the table. Smoking after meals may also be a habit. Head out to a movie rather than lingering around the dinner table.

3. Think about your morning cup of coffee. Treat yourself to something different if you often smoke while drinking coffee. Brew a cup of green tea instead and sample a new breakfast cereal.

Additional Suggestions

1. Reward yourself. Remind yourself of the advantages ahead. Plan on what you'll do with the money you save, like going on a weekend trip or buying new shoes.

2. Encourage concentration. You may find it difficult to concentrate until your body adapts to being tobacco free. Write out to do lists, take notes, and post reminders for important tasks.

3. Seek out places that ban smoking. Spend your time in places where smoking is prohibited. That's very easy to do these days.

4. Brush your teeth. You're less likely to want a cigarette when your mouth is feeling fresh. Keep a small toothbrush and toothpaste in your office desk or handbag.

5. Surround yourself with helpful images. Think about pictures you can use to reinforce your motivation. A family portrait may remind you that you want more years to spend with your loved ones.

6. Enlist support. Let your family and friends know how they can help you quit. Ask your local hospital about support groups in your area.

Congratulations on the decision to quit smoking. Giving up tobacco is one of the most important things you can do to improve your health. If you plan ahead to minimize common obstacles on your first day without cigarettes, it can be the start of a whole new and better future for yourself.

By Michael Tkaczuk