Non-smoker for over a month now and 6 kg lighter!!

I started nicotine replacement patches, walking 5kms a day and a strict calorie control diet on the first of January. I continued to smoke until I saw a hypnotherapist on the 17th of January (also had my teeth descaled at the dentist on that day) and have been a non-smoker since that date.

I still wear a patch (insurance), but find the early morning exercise routine and calorie control has really helped me. I feel fitter, no longer breathless and can cover 5km in around 45- 50 minutes. My focus is not on cigarettes but my new varied meal plans. To date I have lost 6 kgs and 8 cm off my waist. I feel great, my smile is brighter and work collegues are noticing my change in body shape and habits. No longer needing to rush outside with a coffee is such a release. YES I do still get cravings. But I have learnt to ask myself am I hungrey? Am I thirsty? Am I bored? My strategy is to either eat a piece of fruit, or have a coffee, or Ice water, or chew some sugar free gum or do something else.

The biggest surprise for me was a dream in which I saw myself smoking. In the dream I was shocked and felt really dissappointed. It was such a relief to wake up and realise I had not had a cigarette at all! Interesting how my supconscious is now a non-smoker too!!

I am okay around smokers, I don't particularly like the smell but it certanly does not have me craving to join in. I just feel relieved I don't need a cigarette like I did in the past. I will continue on the step down patches to ensure I stay on track, each day I feel so much better and so proud of what I have achieved to date. My next goal is introducing muscle toning into my daily routine.