7 Ways to Lessen Stress When Quitting Smoking
Smokers think that smoking helps them relax but experts say otherwise. A person who is in nicotine withdrawal may feel anxious and jittery, which they often confuse with stress. They feel better after lighting up a few cigarettes, not because smoking eases stress but because another dose of nicotine was delivered.
Nicotine withdrawal is incredibly stressful and stress is among the leading reasons why people fail in their effort to break free from nicotine addiction. The reason for this is that the brain, under stressful condition, releases epinephrine which causes the person to loss focus and the ability to think clearly. This is the reason why most smokers losses their focus on their goal – to quit smoking.
Fortunately, there are several ways that can help you quit smoking today. Below are 7 ways to help you lessen the stress when quitting smoking.
1. Have the right mind setting.
Quitting the habit is tough and stressful. Acknowledge this fact before you even start with the program. Understand that nicotine withdrawal may cause you to lose your temper often, might feel discouraged and depressed in the course of the withdrawal, and these might even cause you to fail. Remember, you can do it and most smokers even tried several times before they were successful in quitting.
2. Try to focus before you quit.
Fixing the leaky faucet before you quit will help you focus your attention to your goal – to quit smoking. Resolving any distressing short-term issues that might distract you will make it easier for you to stay on track and quit smoking for good.
3. Focus your energy to your goal.
The first weeks of your smoking cessation program are hardest. During this period the last thing you need is a distraction. Try to avoid worrying yourself about some long-term problems. Focus your energy to your goal and deal with those problems later when you get through the first few weeks.
4. Acknowledge the signs of stress – and deal with it!
The sooner you recognize the signs of stress and the sooner you deal with it the better chance you have in quitting. Signs of stress include the following – the feeling of being unable to cope, restlessness, anxiety, headaches, depression, sleeplessness, anger, and agitation.
5. Treat yourself.
One of the best and simplest ways to relieve stress is to divert your attention to things and activities you love doing. Watch movies, play with your kids, go to a spa or join a fitness club, or go to a vacation. These activities will help you lessen the stress you feel.
6. Relax.
Yoga, guided imagery, progressive relaxation, deep breathing exercises, and other forms of meditation are only a few things you can do to practice relaxation, not only of the body but of the mind as well. You may want to join a yoga class even before you start with your smoking cessation program to help you better prepare yourself.
7. Be patient.
You don’t simply succeed in your effort to quit smoking without having to wait and sweat for it. Some even took several attempts before they have finally won the battle against smoking. Just remember, for each day that you refuse to light up, the lesser the effect of nicotine will have in your body, and that you are one step closer to your goal – to quit smoking.
