Introduction:
Many people who fall addicted to smoking find it very hard to stop the habit. Yet, they must put in their best efforts to quit smoking, which will otherwise lead to serious health consequences. For people with a long time addiction to smoking, the task of weaning off the habit might seem impossible. But doctors and medical professionals have devised systematic plans for achieving this goal. For individuals who are sincere and earnest about quitting smoking following a systematic and step by step approach will pay rich dividends for health. Ideally, this process should be planned in consultation with a qualified medical professional. The rest of this essay sets out these useful steps in more detail.
Step 1: Practicing Deep Breathing:
Many people underestimate the power of this seemingly simple exercise. People who want are trying to quit smoking would probably have started by tapering down the number of cigarettes per day. But this process will not be easy and the craving for nicotine will heighten at periodic intervals in the day. The easiest way of reducing the nervous tension at these moments is by taking a few deep breaths. One can also practice yoga techniques of breathing, which will provide some relief. Of course the addicted person should keep practicing these exercises whenever the urge for nicotine intensifies.
Step 2: Modifying the Diet:
For people addicted to smoking, the problem will be increased by the consumption of alcohol, sugary drinks and coffee. So while they are attempting to quit smoking, they should also at the same time reduce the intake of these harmful drinks. Instead they should increase the daily intake of water, which will help flush out nicotine and other toxins from the body. Sometimes, during the process of quitting smoking the patient’s appetite will increase. This situation should be handled carefully by choosing nutrient rich food items and avoiding junk foods.
Step 3: Making necessary lifestyle changes:
If a person is regular to a particular restaurant or bar where smoking is allowed, then they should make a conscious effort to change their routine. It is quite likely that the close friends’ circle of the addicted person also has many smokers. Then it may be necessary for avoiding social situations that would entice smoking. This arrangement need not be a permanent one. Once the patient feels confident in themselves, they can resume their usual routines. In other words, once the first few weeks of abstinence are successfully overcome then it will increasingly become easier later on.