When is a Craving Not a Craving?

So what is a craving? We hear so much about these cravings that it has prevented us from even thinking about quitting smoking in fear of them. There is nothing to fear but fear itself. Fear can immobilize you into doing nothing, which can be harmful in itself.

Through knowledge and learning about yourself you can rid of the fear that prevents you from taking the steps to quit smoking.

Retraining the mind with these new truths and believing in yourself makes it all possible. When did negative thoughts ever bring anything positive.? Think positive and positive things will happen.

So what is a craving. The dictionary defines it as a powerful desire. A nicotine WITHDRAWAL can bring about a few physical effects like sweating, restlessness, constipation, headaches , increased appetite, abdominal cramps and trouble sleeping . Since nicotine is mostly out of our systems in 72 hours, these symptoms will ease off after peaking in those first hours.

It is the psychological aspect of the habit that continues to haunt us for a much longer period of time. Nicotine withdrawal also causes a chemical imbalance in the brain that can cause moodiness, anxiety and a lack of concentration. It also causes these CRAVINGS which can last about 20 minutes, although i believe most experience them for shorter periods if managed.

I will add this link for you the read for yourselves. Note that they state that NRT's can also cause physical symptoms that they say are not as bad as cold turkey quits, but I beg to differ. Read for yourselves and decide.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323012.php

We have all had headaches in our lives, due to overthinking. Dwelling on your desire to have a cigarette while feeling deprived is bound to cause conflict within. Learning how to let go and embrace this journey is the best remedy. Mindset is key and makes the transformation smoother.

Remembering that a craving is usually nothing but a mere thought that can be dismissed by diverting our attention elsewhere. A craving should be a reminder that you are winning this battle. Assert your intentions to banish nicotine from your life and acknowledge that you will take things in stride, step by step. Continue to think positive and you will do this.

Sometimes a whiff of cigarette smoke, a certain situation will evoke memories and a thought of smoking . They are just memories and easily dismissed. My hubby keeps reaching for a cigarette out of habit sometimes and recently did it several times seeing smoke from a mosquito coil. We just laugh and take it for what it is ...a memory. It is not something that we dwell on or want.

Once you choose to be a non-smoker you can be. Cravings can be easily dismissed and controlled and eventually eliminated. We also know that they can sneak up on you months later so keep checking in on IcanQuit to stay prepared and to support others.