They help you keep your weight down, make you more comfortable in social situations, and relax you in stressful ones. Yup, cigarettes seem too good to be true. And, as you know, they absolutely are. But because of all the perceived “positive” side-effects people experience from smoking (not to mention the slew of negative ones like cancer, stinking, shortness of breath, etc), it’s hard to give up this fatal habit. Here are some natural ways to cut your craving for a cigarette when trying to quit smoking.
Get That High
Many smokers love the feeling of euphoria that nicotine gives them. Well, why not try a much healthier way to get that feeling. It’s called “runner’s high” for a reason. Running can truly make you feel empowered and physically attractive, two things smoking probably made you feel.
Stay Slim
The prospect of weight gain terrifies smokers away from the prospect of quitting! Let one change accompany another. If you quit smoking, try incorporating that regular exercise into your life you’ve been meaning to get around to for ages. This will help you maintain weight on top of boosting endorphins.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture has been shown to reduce the desire to smoke. Acupuncturists place tiny needles into your ears during the appointment, but for lengthened results, some leave tiny balls on your ears that you’re encouraged to press on whenever you feel a craving.
St. John’s Wort
One study observed the effects of 300 mg of this herb daily combined with cessation counseling. Within 12 weeks, 9 out of their 24 participants had quit smoking entirely.
Ginseng
If cigarettes weren’t enjoyable, we wouldn’t have a problem. Well, consuming Ginseng can actually prevent that addictive nicotine-induced dopamine in your brain, making smoking less enjoyable.
Drink A Glass Of Water
Just like you down a glass of water to fend off an impending snack attack, guzzling water can curb a nicotine craving. It keeps your mouth busy at that crucial moment of the craving and, often what you perceive as a craving is simply dehydration.
Eat A Healthy Snack
When blood sugar levels are low, you feel weak and less able to fight a cigarette craving. To keep blood sugar levels balanced, grab a healthy snack like fruit or a tablespoon of peanut butter between meals.
Yoga and Deep Breathing
Some smokers do it just for the instant relaxation. Trade in your pack of cigs for a yoga mat. Just five minutes in a relaxing pose like legs up the wall, accompanied by deep, focused breathing will induce relaxation.
Stock Up On Produce
Studies have shown that eating a piece of fruit or a vegetable makes those trying to smoke instantly feel healthier. This makes them want to remain that way and makes the thought of a cigarette even more guilt-ridden.