meddie
JF-Expert Member
- Oct 21, 2010
- 434
- 125
Quit Guide: Quitting
Managing Cravings: When you really crave a cigarette
Remember: The urge to smoke will come and go. Try to wait it out. Or look at the plan you made last week. You wrote down steps to take at a time like this. Try them! You can also try these tips:
Keep other things around instead of cigarettes. Try carrots, pickles, sunflower seeds, apples, celery, raisins, or sugarfree gum.
Wash your hands or the dishes when you want a cigarette very badly. Or take a shower.
Learn to relax quickly by taking deep breaths.
o Take 10 slow, deep breaths and hold the last one.
o Then breathe out slowly.
o Relax all of your muscles.
o Picture a soothing, pleasant scene.
o Just get away from it all for a moment.
o Think only about that peaceful image and nothing else.
Light incense or a candle instead of a cigarette.
Where you are and what is going on can make you crave a cigarette. A change of scene can really help. Go outside, or go to a different room. You can also try changing what you are doing.
No matter what, don't think, "Just one won't hurt." It will hurt. It will undo your work so far.
Remember: Trying something to beat the urge is always better than trying nothing.
Find New Things To Do
Starting today you may want to create some new habits. Here are some things you might try:
Swimming, jogging, playing tennis, bike riding, or shooting baskets. It's hard to smoke and do these things at the same time. How about walking your dog?
Keep your hands busy. Do crossword puzzles or needlework. Paint. Do woodworking, gardening, or household chores. You can also write a letter or paint your nails.
Enjoy having a clean tasting mouth. Brush your teeth often and use mouthwash.
Take a stretch when you're tempted to reach for a cigarette.
Set aside time for the activities that satisfy you and mean the most to you. There are natural breaks even during a busy day. After dinner, first thing in the morning, or just before bed are good examples. You'll also need plenty of rest while you get used to your smokefree lifestyle.
For more ....http://www.smokefree.gov/qg-quitting-cravings.aspx
Managing Cravings: When you really crave a cigarette
Remember: The urge to smoke will come and go. Try to wait it out. Or look at the plan you made last week. You wrote down steps to take at a time like this. Try them! You can also try these tips:
o Take 10 slow, deep breaths and hold the last one.
o Then breathe out slowly.
o Relax all of your muscles.
o Picture a soothing, pleasant scene.
o Just get away from it all for a moment.
o Think only about that peaceful image and nothing else.
Find New Things To Do
Starting today you may want to create some new habits. Here are some things you might try:
Set aside time for the activities that satisfy you and mean the most to you. There are natural breaks even during a busy day. After dinner, first thing in the morning, or just before bed are good examples. You'll also need plenty of rest while you get used to your smokefree lifestyle.
For more ....http://www.smokefree.gov/qg-quitting-cravings.aspx
