Stop Smoking Help

Living Smoke Free: Remaining a Non-smoker

Feeling Tempted? Here are a few tips to help you say no

So you have done it! You’ve managed to quit smoking but now the cravings are getting you down. Any ex-smoker can attest to the fact that deciding to quit smoking was not easy, but remaining a non-smoker is even more difficult. Here are some useful tips to help you stay committed to being healthy and to say no to the cravings:

Go for a walk - The easiest thing to do when you feel like having a cigarette is to go for a walk. You don’t have to go far, but sometimes some fresh air is all you need to fight your cravings.

Take deep breaths - If you are unable to escape for a walk, taking several deep breaths can help. By inhaling, you are opening up the lungs and by focusing on the air coming into your airways, you can calm yourself and trick your body into forgetting about the cravings.

Do Yoga - So what if you’ve never tried yoga! Focusing on the practice of yoga takes you outside of yourself and forces you to stop thinking about your urges to light up.

Listen to music or motivation tapes - Sometimes when you are craving nicotine, all you need is a melodic piece of music or a friendly word of encouragement. Take a moment to listen to music that soothes you or to the inspiring words of a motivational expert.

Drink water with crushed ice - It may sound funny, but many people use this method to fight their cravings. Take time to drink the water slowly and chew the ice. You may be pleasantly surprised at how successful this technique can be.

Brush your teeth - Many people report that when they brush their teeth they no longer want to have a cigarette. This technique shifts your oral fixation to your toothbrush and teeth instead of to your cigarette and mouth. Also, some people claim that when their mouth and teeth feel clean, they no longer crave the taste of nicotine.

Certain websites are dedicated to bringing together people who are trying to quit smoking. Sometimes knowing that someone else is going through what you are going through is extremely helpful. Check out a popular site for former smokers and quitting in-progress smokers at Serious About Smoking.