The majority of smokers have an addiction to nicotine. When a smoker decides to quit, withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, sleeplessness and nicotine cravings, can make the process very challenging. Many smoking cessation programs focus on the management of withdrawal symptoms. Yoga is one complementary stress-reduction practice recommended by smoking cessation programs.
Significance
According to the American Yoga Association, yoga is a physical practice that promotes flexibility, improved posture, controlled breathing and stress reduction. Regular yoga practice can improve physical strength and mental focus, and in doing so, may help practitioners manage difficult emotions or even physical pain. Both the Addiction Recovery Guide and the American Yoga Association have identified yoga as a helpful aid for drug withdrawal symptoms and recovery from the use of chemicals such as tobacco.
Stress Reduction and Yoga
MayoClinic.com notes that smokers who are in the process of quitting should always have a plan. This plan should include tools to manage nicotine withdrawal. While some individuals do use prescription medications to aid with cessation, MayoClinic.com also suggests that behavioral modification can be critical to success. Behavior modification includes use of exercise and breathing techniques for stress management and craving control. Yoga offers physical exercise and instruction in controlled breathing for relaxation and meditation, and as such, it's specifically identified as a useful behavioral intervention.
Medical Research
The American Public Health Association notes that research on the medical application of yoga is limited. Pilot studies have investigated the use of yoga in smoking cessation programs, but the current results are limited and do not offer conclusive results. Nonetheless, health organizations continue to recommend yoga as a complementary treatment during smoking cessation and nicotine withdrawal.
Considerations
The National Cancer Institute notes that smokers need to consult medical professionals and alternative practitioners to individualize their quit plan. Many individuals may benefit from participation in yoga classes during their recovery process. Smokers who have never practiced yoga should consider attending basic classes and consulting a professional instructor to learn basic skills and how they can be applied to the smoking cessation process.
