My Fitness Edge

There are many steps to quit smoking and you can successfully complete all of them if you know how  to overcome the ups and downs of quitting.   The first step you need to take is letting everyone know before hand that you’re going to stop smoking,  that way you can get the support of your family and friends and maybe even your co-workers so they won’t make the mistake of innocently inviting you out  for a smoke.  

The other step is finding a support group of other people who are trying to quit smoking too.  You can find these groups locally,  there are also telephone groups and online chat groups.   This is an important step for several reasons,

1.  trying to kill a tough habit can be lonely,  it increases your chances of success if you’ know you’re not going it alone

2.  hearing about other people’s successes can give you the hope that you can do it too

3.  if anyone in your group is having a hard time,   offering them your encouragement can help strengthen not only their resolve but your own as well

4. if you backslide and take a smoke,  your support group will be there to help you get back on track

Between being irritable,  gaining weight,  feeling tired and suffering from re-occurring cravings you need to know what actions you can take to help yourself feel better and counteract all these negative side effects,  this is one of the other important steps to quit smoking.  

Fight your cravings with healthy food choices and by reminding yourself,   mid craving,  why you want to quit smoking and that the craving will pass.You may gain some weight if your metabolism is affected by going cold turkey. To avoid this, try: eating your last meal by 6 p.m., drinking plenty of pure water and reducing your intake of sugary and fatty foods..

Eating healthily can also reduce your mood swings, irritability and loss of energy. You can also reduce stress by taking breaks, getting enough rest and simply relaxing. Consider weaning yourself while on a vacation to take the stress out of quitting..Practise yoga, learn breathing exercises or enjoy brisk walks around a scenic area..   Avoid things and people that annoy you and try taking herbal teas like Valerian,  lobelia and skullcap as they can be very calming.  

Getting advice from your doctor on other steps to quit smoking can also be a great help.