Do you want to make a major change in your life, save more money and feel healthier? Then read on! It’s time to butt out and go smoke free for the last time and significantly improve both your health and well-being!
Of course we are aware how difficult it is to quit smoking and the journey is by no means easy. However, it can be made much easier with the implementation of a few simple and effective strategies. To successfully quit smoking for good, you need to be persistent, motivated and mentally strong.
The adverse health implications of smoking are widely known and extensive; it’s important to acknowledge that a variety of health benefits will be accrued as a result of smoking cessation, some of which will be noticeable immediately. To increase the chance of a successful change, a good strategy is essential. In the following, you will find 3 strategies to make your way to a smoke free life considerably easier. It is recommended that you combine the effects of pharmacotherapy with either/or exercise regimes and behavioural strategies to have the best chance of successfully quitting smoking.
Pharmacotherapy
- Champix – Champix is a plant-based nicotine-free medication that can help adults quit smoking. Its active ingredient, varenicline tartrate, is not addictive and works to relieve your cravings for a cigarette and withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting smoking.
When you smoke, the nicotine from the cigarette targets the nicotinic receptor in the brain and releases dopamine – a short-term pleasure neurotransmitter. When you smoke a cigarette while taking Champix, the treatment blocks the nicotine from reaching the nicotine-receptor, reducing the enjoyment gained from smoking.
- Nicotine Replacement Therapy – Patches, mouth-sprays, lozenges and gums with nicotine can offer an effective relief from withdrawal symptoms. A very effective strategy is the combination therapy where patches provide a steady constant level of nicotine but are supplemented with the quick relief of mouth-sprays, lozenges and gum.
Exercise
It is highly recommended to do low to medium intensity exercise for two to three hours a week for both general health improvements and to assist smoking cessation efforts. Interestingly, exercise is reported to reduce cravings associated with smoking. If you are naturally active or enjoy exercise, this may be an effective treatment to integrate into your smoke free strategy. Furthermore, the positive health implications of exercise are profound and significant, offering a multitude of health benefits.
Behavioural
An effective method is the START strategy method for giving you the best chance to quit smoking for good.
Following steps are involved:
- Setting a quit date.
- Telling people about your taking on the challenge.
- Anticipating the challenges.
- Removing all traces of cigarettes and tobacco that may be a temptation.
- Informing your doctor.
If you know someone that tries to stop smoking you should offer your support as a friend, family member or colleague. It’s much easier to hold something out with the assistance of your close ones. This will give you additional motivation, because you want to make them proud of perseverance.
It is important to mentally prepare for the journey and commit to your decision to quit smoking. A useful question to ask yourself before taking action to go smoke free is, why do you want to quit? Keep that in your mind as a valuable source of motivation so you always remember why you are going through this process.
To Summarize…
There will be moments where it seems easy to do without cigarettes and other times where it will be challenging, however, you should always keep in your mind the reason for starting and the progress you have made. Remember to reward your milestones and appreciate the positive change you are making. Good luck!
