Tips On Kicking The Habit   by Maria

in Health    (submitted 2011-02-01)

For any number of good reasons, many people decide to quit smoking every single day. From a health standpoint, they've made a good decision. After a while, though, they may discover that having the will does not necessarily mean having the way. Fortunately for them, support groups of every kind are available to help them down a long and often painful road. Advice can be found at all 360 degrees of the compass, starting with one's personal physician, who can help them develop a comprehensive plan that will address the physical, emotional and financial ramifications of quitting.

Prepare Yourself

Someone who quits should be prepared for the emotional struggle that comes with recovery from addiction. Unreasonable emotions such as anger, fear, hostility and frustration are almost universal among those who quit cold turkey, which is the reason so many people prefer to try weaning themselves off of nicotine. Either way, a former smoker may catch himself or herself tempted to smoke at social functions or during times of stress. The addictive properties of nicotine can ingrain themselves into the subconscious, with compulsory side-effects that can last for years.

Putting In The Time

Another thing that most quitters notice is that when they put the cigarettes down for good, the first thing that happens is that they start to gain weight, as the appetite is restored once the smoke clears. Cessation of smoking, even if one switches to other forms of nicotine ingestion, should always be paired up with a well-planned exercise regimen - a good idea in any event, since physical fitness is important to people of all ages and walks of life. This will also help stave off the inevitable feelings of depression, frustration and anger.

Once on the smoke wagon, the best way to stay there is to enlist the aid and comfort of those who share your struggles. Support groups are there to help in every community. Going through something as difficult as breaking a serious addiction shouldn't be done alone, whether it is nicotine, alcohol, gambling, narcotics or anything else than enslaves the mind, body and soul. Knowing what to expect gives you a much better chance of success in kicking the habit.

About the Author

Maria smoked for 15 years and recently quit using an Ecigarette. She suggests anyone who needs to stop cigarettes to try it out.