There are a number of smoking cessation plans, which involve different methods, medications and supplements. Many smokers have only temporary success when following a single method. As cigarette smoking is one of the most challenging addictions to overcome, it may be best to combine techniques for more lasting effects.
Step 1
Cleanse the body. This is critical for permanent smoking cessation. Basic detoxification helps to cleanse the body of nicotine and other toxins and helps to ease the physical need for cigarettes. Replace coffee and soda with fresh cleansing juices such as orange juice or grapefruit juice. These juices will help cleanse the body of toxins built up in the blood, lungs and other organs. Additional vitamin C, 500 to 1,000 mg per day, assists in the cleansing process and helps to combat free radical damage done by smoking. It is well known by doctors that smokers have lower levels of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) in their bloodstream. It is important for smokers to take extra vitamin C while trying to quit and 200 mg per day regularly after completing a smoking cessation program.
Step 2
Clean house. Cleaning up your environment and changing your behavior patterns may help to overcome the very things in your life that trigger the need for cigarettes. Smoking cessation experts recommend removing any of these trigger items from your home, office and car. Throw away all ashtrays, lighters and matches. Wash bedding, clothing, carpets and other areas that retain the smell of cigarette smoke. Replace old behavior patterns with new ones. For example, if you like to smoke a cigarette after a meal, try going for a walk or bike ride instead. An article in "The New York Times" states that smokers who exercise regularly can greatly increase their ability to quit smoking. In addition, chewing gum may help satisfy the oral fixation associated with smoking.
Step 3
Cleanse the mind. Another popular technique to assist people in quitting smoking is hypnosis and therapy. While these programs can be costly, individuals can experience a similar effect by practicing deep-breathing techniques and meditation on their own. Begin by finding a quiet place where you can sit undisturbed for 10 to 15 minutes. Sit up comfortably and close your eyes. Inhale through the nose, expanding first the stomach then the chest. Exhale slowly, with control, relaxing the shoulders and chest and finally expelling all the air from the abdomen. Repeat for up to 20 breaths. Spend the remainder of the time breathing steadily and sitting quietly with the eyes closed. Imagine yourself as a non-smoker. Relive a happy memory from the past as a non-smoker. Imagine the air feels fresher, the colors are more vivid and that you are free. Spend several minutes enjoying this experience. Practice this technique 2 to 3 times per day for about 1 month until the addiction is broken. Meditation and relaxation CDs are also available at most book stores and online.
Tips and Warnings
- Combine the above techniques for optimal results. Avoid nicotine patches and gum. While these may provide the body with the nicotine it craves, it slows down the cleansing and healing process and can actually make it more difficult to break the habit. It has been said that it takes 30 days to make or break a habit. Yet individuals who rely on nicotine patches or supplements generally use them for 3 to 5 months.
- If you are currently taking prescription medication for smoking cessation, talk with your doctor before beginning another program or taking additional vitamins and supplements. Never discontinue your medications without consulting the prescribing physician. If you are currently using nicotine supplements or patches, remember they are toxic and should be kept out of the reach of children.
Things You'll Need
- Vitamin C
- Grapefruit juice or orange juice
- Relaxation or meditation CDs
