Quitting smoking is one of the best decisions that someone can make for their health, but overcoming nicotine cravings can be challenging. Whether you’re trying to quit smoking now or looking for ways to manage withdrawal symptoms, having a solid strategy in place is key for this transition period. The good news is that there are effective ways to control cravings and stay on track with your new goals.
One of the most effective methods to transition away from traditional cigarettes is using e-cigs. Unlike conventional combustible cigarettes, e-cigs allow you to better control your nicotine intake without the addition of inhaling harmful chemicals found in tobacco, like tar. At Vape-Ecigs, you’ll find a wide variety of e-cigs with a range of nicotine concentration levels designed to help you gradually reduce your dependency.
If you’re serious about quitting smoking now, here are some practical ways to properly handle your nicotine cravings.
Switch to e-cigs
If you’re struggling to quit smoking now, e-cigs are one of the most effective alternatives to get you on the right track. While providing a chosen, controlled nicotine amount, this replacement option allows users to inhale nicotine-containing vapor without the tobacco smoke, which contains harmful chemicals. Since nicotine withdrawal can cause anxiety and irritation, e-cigs help to facilitate the transition with minimal challenges, allowing the user to lower their intake over time.
Identify your triggers
Recognizing what prompts your urge to smoke is the first step in controlling cravings. Stress, social settings, or even certain times of the day can be common triggers. Once you identify your reasons for smoking, you can then develop workable strategies to manage those situations or avoid them entirely.
Remember to stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water can help to flush nicotine from your system and is a great way to ease withdrawal symptoms. Staying hydrated also reduces the intensity of cravings, keeping you on track when trying to quit smoking.
Use Nicotine Replacement Therapy
While e-cigs are the most commonly used NRTs, options like gum, patches, and lozenges are additional smoking cessation aids that can be used alongside these devices to provide controlled nicotine and ease withdrawal symptoms. All of these tools make it easier to quit smoking now, as they reduce one’s urge to light up.
Practice deep breathing exercises
When a craving hits, it’s important to take slow, deep breaths. By inhaling deeply through your nose, holding onto that breath for a few seconds, and exhaling slowly, you can reduce stress and effectively combat any sudden urges to smoke.
Keep your hands and mind busy
Distraction is a powerful tool. When cravings arise, it’s best to engage in activities that will keep your hands occupied. This can include playing an instrument, crafting, gaming, or really any hobby that offers you mental stimulation. Physical activities, like a drop-in fitness class, can also help redirect your focus and keep your mind busy.
Get support from your peers
Having a strong support system can make quitting smoking much easier. Talk to friends, family, co-workers, or even join a support group to stay motivated and accountable in your quit smoking journey.
Set realistic goals
Quitting smoking doesn’t happen overnight, which is why it’s important to set small, realistic goals. For example, reducing your daily combustible cigarette intake before quitting completely. This allows you to celebrate your progress and stay motivated.
Avoid tempting situations
It’s best to stay away from environments that make you want to smoke. So, if you’re the type of person who has a combustible cigarette with their morning coffee, try switching your beverage to a tea or sitting in a different spot to change up the association. These small changes can make all the difference.
Keep things positive
The journey to quitting smoking now isn’t always easy, but staying positive can make a huge difference. Do your best to remind yourself why you started and continue to focus on the benefits of a smoke-free lifestyle so that you can celebrate every milestone along the way.
Did we miss any ways that you handle your nicotine cravings? Drop a comment below to share your thoughts.
The post 10 ways to properly handle your nicotine cravings appeared first on Blog Vape-Ecigs.