Ways I distract myself
I'm have quit with Champix and this is my 12th day of being smoke free today. I'd like to share some of my methods with you. If one of them helps a single person I'm happy.
1. I've written the reasons why I want to quit on the inside of my fingers. So every time I get a craving I read: Health, kids, longevity, money.
2. After reading it I do some deep beating for 30 seconds and am happy that I can actually breath that deep without coughing.
3. The reward cigarette - I replaced it with a cup of (green) tea. Sitting down for 5 minutes and just doing nothing can be a reward too. But I also keep myself busy, thinking I just do this or that before I sit down and usually just keep going.
4. I keep my hands busy by starting to crochet in the evening in front of the TV. I had started replace my smoking with eating which really brought on some kilos.
5. I'm now able to sit down in the garden with my husband while he has a smoke. I know, second hand smoke too is bad, but I enjoy the time and I like most ex smokers love the smell of fresh cigarette smoke.
Would love to hear some more strategies from others.
Community Guru
Hi Bine. Isn't being able to take those deep breaths without hacking a blessing. One day, maybe your husband will follow your example.
I kept busy by being on this forum alot, and researching nicotine addiction, and better health related stories. I have now joined a weight loss program to count the calories, fiber and protein, etc... which again, keeps me busy, and knowledgeable.Exercising and Cooking talso keeps me occupied.
Don't let fear of gaining weight keep you from quitting smoking. There is nothing more beneficial to your health than quitting the vile habit. Nibble healthy foods and cut out/down the whites, and sugar and processed. It is amazing how much you can eat, when you just eat healthy.
Writing on the fingers is an innovative idea.
I too am looking forward to hearing other people ways of staying quit.
Keep up the great work and always stay positive. You've got this!
I like the idea of writing on your fingers. Although, I guess you would have to use permanent marker. Lol. Congratulations on not smoking. I have not found myself liking the smell of smokes so I personally try to avoid it but I say whatever works for you. 😀
My experience at quitting was spending time in the hospital after major surgery, that was due to smoking. I have only to look at the scar on my abdomen and I don't want a smoke. I don't recommend people have surgery to quit, but it worked for me. 😄 Keep up the good work and keep us posted!