Quitting smoking presents a significant challenge, especially for long-time smokers. Beyond the unpleasant withdrawal symptoms, smokers must also mentally convince themselves every day that the benefits of quitting smoking outweigh the benefits of continuing to smoke.
For this reason, we have compiled some tips and tricks to help you transition from smoker to non-smoker more easily. A smoke-free life not only has positive effects on health but also on mental well-being, relationships with others, and, of course, your wallet.
Quitting Smoking: 8 Tips
Quitting smoking overnight is a challenge that few can achieve. For most, it's a long and arduous process, and they must deal with withdrawal symptoms such as lack of concentration and mood swings. Good preparation can help ensure successful smoking cessation.
If every previous attempt to quit smoking has ended unsuccessfully, you should try the following tips:
1. Set a Specific Date
To successfully quit smoking, it is beneficial to select a specific date. It's best to mark the day on the calendar so you can keep it in mind. The best times are when you are less stressed and don't have much on your plate. Stress and psychological strain negatively affect quitting and increase the risk of relapse.
2. Don't Wait Too Long to Quit Smoking
As mentioned, it's helpful to set a date for quitting. Otherwise, you might keep postponing the decision and find excuses for not following through with your resolution.
3. Create Distractions
It's important not to constantly think about smoking when trying to quit. Therefore, it's best to find an activity before quitting that will help you break away from smoking. Even better, start a new hobby and invest all your free time and energy into it.
4. Exercise
One of the unpleasant side effects of quitting smoking is weight gain. Nicotine helps curb appetite and influences taste buds, making us less hungry. Regular exercise not only helps shed extra pounds but also serves as an excellent distraction strategy.
Additionally, many people smoke to experience a sense of well-being. Exercise releases endorphins that can help improve your mood.
5. Find a Replacement
Instead of reaching for a cigarette, find something else as an alternative. To avoid weight gain after quitting smoking, choose healthy snacks and only occasionally opt for sweets.
6. Avoid Tempting Situations
Many smokers, especially social smokers, are tempted to smoke again at events like family gatherings, concerts, or bar visits. Try attending these events with non-smokers and avoid smoker hangouts. Additionally, remove all smoking paraphernalia from your sight to avoid temptation.
7. Prepare for Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, restlessness, discomfort, and others are entirely normal after quitting smoking. It helps to inform those around you about your quit attempt so they are aware. Remind yourself that withdrawal symptoms are temporary and will eventually subside.
8. Reward Yourself
Quitting smoking also saves money. You can use the savings for other rewards, like a meal with friends, a new hobby, or a vacation.
Chewing Bags as an Alternative to Smoking
If you can't quit nicotine immediately, try a gradual withdrawal. You can try chewing bags or snus products with varying nicotine levels. Since chewing bags and snus do not involve a combustion process, they are less harmful than traditional cigarettes.
The nicotine content varies by product. For example, Siberia Rot -80 Degrees WDP has a relatively high nicotine content of 43 mg/g, while edel Berry All White contains only 10 mg/g of nicotine. For those looking for a product without nicotine, edel CBD Mint is an option.
