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For many people, that first cigarette along with a large mug of fresh filter coffee officially heralds the beginning of the day. Despite the numerous messages splashed across our TV screens and in our newspapers, there are still a lot of people who smoke. Once the message has finally gotten through and you are tired of waking up literally coughing your lungs out, there are many options available for you to choose from. Quitting smoking really does not have to be a drag.

First things first

Gums, pills and patches will not stop you from smoking unless you really, sincerely and honestly want to quit. You may fool other people but not yourself. Do. You. Want. To. Quit. Smoking? Are you sure?

It is a good idea to write down all the reasons you have to quit. Every day, remind yourself why you want to quit and read them over and over again.

Imagine your life as a non-smoker. How different is it to your life right now? Is it better? In what ways?

Every day, begin to implement certain activities you wish to fully take part in once you have quit smoking. Increase your daily exercise routine. Drink more fluids and include nutrients, minerals and vitamins in your diet, along with fresh fruit and vegetables. Rest more.

You are now ready to set a date. Make the day you quit special and memorable. Celebrate its anniversary every month if you wish, and every year.

It’s time

Be realistic. Quitting will not be easy but it is perfectly possible. You will experience some cravings and withdrawal symptoms but you should know that this period is temporary. The first week is often the most difficult and the one in which you are more prone to relapses due to cravings. Situational relapses can occur during the first three months after quitting. A relapse does not mean that you will never be able to quit smoking. Try again. And again. Most people need more than one attempt.

Tricks to curb the cravings

• You can try to switch to a brand that you really dislike as you’re bound to smoke less of those.
• Until the day you quit, regularly decrease the number of cigarettes you smoke daily.
• Don’t finish your cigarette. Kill it after smoking half of it.
• Switch some of your cigarettes with some fruit, vegetables or a large glass of fresh fruit juice.
• Make it inconvenient to smoke by buying only one pack at a time.
• Write down a list of things you would like and convert the monetary amount into packs of cigarettes. Put aside that money instead of buying cigarettes.
• Avoid drinks that contain alcohol and/or caffeine as you often associate these with smoking. And avoid places filled with temptations like your favourite bar.
• Create new habits such as going for a walk after a meal.

Before long, smoke-free, healthy lifestyle you envisioned before you quit will have become reality.

Tags: quit smoking, Smoking