Quitting smoking is not easy, but it’s worth it! For most people, the cravings and urges can be intense, but with the right strategies and support, it’s absolutely achievable.
Here, we have explored the benefits of quitting and curated 5 practical tips to help you quit smoking, improve your health and well-being, and regain control of your life.
Why Is Smoking Bad For You?
Smoking poses a significant risk to your health and continues to be the leading cause of preventable death and ill health in Australia. When you smoke, you expose yourself to a harmful concoction of over 7,000 chemicals, many of which are notoriously known to cause serious health problems. These chemicals contribute to a plethora of adverse health outcomes, including but not limited to lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, and respiratory illnesses such as emphysema.
Smoking or vaping exerts a profound influence on the brain, like other addictive substances, by triggering the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter responsible for mood regulation. The temporary alteration in mood experienced by smokers, often referred to as a “rush,” occurs when nicotine reaches the brain, further reinforcing the addictive cycle.
What Are The Benefits Of Quitting?
Quitting smoking offers many benefits that can be felt immediately after you quit smoking and in the long term. Not only will quitting smoking decrease your risk of lung cancer and other cancers, but you’ll also have a reduced risk of heart attacks, stroke, and chronic disease. Here are some more benefits:
- You will shield your loved ones from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke, a particularly concerning issue for infants and children whose lungs are still developing.
- You will alleviate symptoms and prevent the progression of any pre-existing lung conditions, ultimately enhancing your quality of life.
- You will extend your lifespan and feel much better.
- You will save money.
5 Tips on How to Quit Smoking
1. Avoid Triggers
Smoking urges are likely to be the strongest in the places where you smoked or vaped most often, such as parties and bars, smoking after meals, or smoking in your car when you’re feeling stressed. It’s important to discover what your triggers are and actively avoid them. Recognising your triggers can help you develop strategies to minimise exposure to them or find alternative coping mechanisms.
For example, if stress is a trigger, consider incorporating stress-relief techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises into your daily routine. It is also essential to modify your environment by removing smoking paraphernalia or avoiding places where smoking is permitted, which can help reduce temptation and make quitting easier.
2. Try Hypnosis
There are a lot of benefits of hypnotherapy, including helping you quit smoking.
Imagine the profound sense of achievement when you can say:
- “I now feel better about who I am.”
- “I’ve regained boundless energy.”
- “My clothes no longer smell of smoke.”
- “I’ve stopped hiding and reclaimed control of my life!”
Hypnosis to stop smoking can help you resolve the root cause of your addiction. Any reason – be it experience, belief, motive, or emotion that may have caused or affected your need to smoke in the past is resolved fully and completely using a safe, holistic and drug-free process. By Harnessing the power of your mind, you can confidently step into a brighter, smoke-free life.
3. Create a Reward System
Establishing a reward system can provide positive reinforcement and motivation throughout your quit journey. Set achievable milestones, such as going one day without smoking, completing a week smoke-free, or reaching a month milestone. There are even some smartphone apps, such as My QuitBuddy, that can show you your daily progress, including how much you’ve saved.
It’s important to celebrate each milestone with a meaningful reward, whether it’s treating yourself to a favourite meal, going to a sporting event, or purchasing something you’ve been wanting. By associating quitting smoking with positive experiences, you can reinforce your commitment to staying smoke-free and enhance your sense of accomplishment.
4. Replace Smoking Habits
Smoking is often intertwined with daily routines and habits, making it challenging to break free from the habit. To successfully quit smoking, you need to replace smoking-related behaviours with healthier alternatives.
For example, if you typically smoke during work breaks, consider taking a walk outside, chewing sugar-free gum, or practising relaxation techniques instead. Find activities that occupy your hands and mouth, such as knitting, doodling, or sipping herbal tea, to distract from cravings and redirect your focus. Experiment with different strategies until you find what works best for you and fits into your lifestyle.
5. Positive Support System
Surrounding yourself with a supportive network can significantly impact your success in quitting smoking. Share your quit journey with friends, family members, or support groups who understand your goals and can offer encouragement, empathy, and accountability. Having someone to lean on during challenging moments can provide a sense of camaraderie and remind you that you’re not alone in your efforts.
You should also consider seeking professional support through counselling, quitlines, or smoking cessation programs. These programs allow you to access expert guidance and resources tailored to your needs. Building a solid support system is essential to your quit plan and can make all the difference in your journey towards a smoke-free life.
Want to Learn More About Hypnosis to Quit Smoking?
If you’re curious about how hypnosis can help you quit smoking, please contact our experienced Clinical Hypnotherapists to learn more about how we can assist you! Our Clinical Hypnotherapists specialise in smoking cessation and are here to help you take the first steps. Whether it’s your first time or your eighth time trying to quit smoking, we would love to help you achieve a smoke-free life and take control of your health and well-being.
