Whether you quit smoking completely or are trying to cut back, engaging in different activities can help you avoid the unhealthy habit. You may associate your regular routines with smoking, so varying your routine will reduce those connections. Recognizing triggers, such as stress and boredom, enables you to address those issues rather than reach for a cigarette.
Social Activities
An enjoyable outing with non-smoking friends takes your mind off cigarettes, especially if boredom is a trigger. The urge to smoke will pass if you are feeling engaged and stimulated. Georgia Health Info suggests choosing a place where smoking is prohibited. Possibilities include museums, movie theaters and shops.
Therapy
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that receiving counseling doubles your chances of successfully quitting smoking. Getting individual counseling helps you manage underlying stress and anxiety in your life, which can be prime triggers for smoking. Special support groups cater to the needs of people who have quit smoking or want to quit. You can also call a telephone counseling center whenever you get the urge to smoke.
Exercise
Engaging in physical activity helps distract you from the craving to smoke. You can trade smoking for fitness if you substitute your usual smoking break for a brisk walk. Georgia Health Info reports that 30 minutes of moderate exercise can make a cigarette craving disappear.
Relaxation Techniques
Activities that reduce stress and promote relaxation decrease your dependence on cigarettes when you are experiencing mental and emotional strain. The National Women's Health Information Center recommends exercise, meditation, hot baths or reading as a few options. Other relaxing activities include getting a massage, practicing yoga or keeping your hands busy with knitting.
Chewing Gum
Many people worry that they will substitute eating for smoking and gain weight. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that many former smokers do experience some weight gain, it is usually less than 10 pounds. Chewing sugar-free gum or candy keeps your mouth busy without adding a lot of extra calories to your daily intake. If driving typically triggers a smoking craving for you, Georgia Health Info suggests chewing gum in the car instead.
