Rid Yourself of the Cigarette Craving After Quitting?

Answer 1

Cigarette cravings can be one of the most difficult aspects of quitting smoking. Cravings can be physical or psychological. Physical cravings are the body's physical reaction to no longer having nicotine. Typical symptoms may include throat tightness, anxiety and tension. Psychological cravings are the mental cues which are unconscious that trigger the urge to smoke. There are a variety of ways in which cigarette cravings can be dealt with to help curb the urge to smoke a cigarette.

Keep a Journal

There are triggers which set off the urge to smoke such as relationship issues, being around other smokers and work issues. When an individual is craving a cigarette, a craving journal can help keep track of what is going on during the craving. When a craving hits, it is helpful to identify any emotions present, where the individual is at and who the person is with at the time. This helps to narrow down and identify the triggers for the individual. In addition to identifying the triggers, a craving journal can help the individual process the feelings which may arise. Another helpful aspect of keeping a journal is writing down all of the reasons why the person is quitting the smoking habit. This list can be placed in an area of the house where it can be referred to often such as the refrigerator.

Find an Oral Substitute

Smoking a cigarette can be a habit which comes after a meal or while socializing with friends. When tempted to light up a cigarette, it can be helpful to find a substitute to smoking the cigarette. Good oral substitutes can include gum, hard candy, carrot sticks or sunflower seeds.

Exercise

Exercise can be another helpful strategy to get rid of the urge to smoke a cigarette. Exercise can come in the form of walking, running, yoga or pilates. It is helpful to have a change of scenery while doing the exercise such as going outside to take a walk in nature. Deep breathing can also help the individual relax.

Although cigarette cravings may tempt the individual to have another cigarette, the person can make a conscious choice to choose something better. As the individual keeps a journal and identifies the triggers, the person can make a conscious choice to do something constructive such as exercise. These tips will not only curb cigarette cravings but help the individual live a healthier life.