Smoking cessation is an unpleasant experience any way you look at it. You will have to cope with the cravings and all the withdrawal symptoms, you will have to beat up the smoking habit and change your lifestyle completely.

To help you get out of the smoking-swamp we have compiled a short list with tips to give up smoking.

Tip #1

Set up a stop date a few weeks in advance. This will give you enough time to prepare yourself for the upcoming changes. Moreover, this will allow you to start some medical treatment or get some nicotine replacement products.

Tip #2

The second tip to give up smoking is simple but very important. On your stop smoking day, throw away all your cigarettes. This will not only prevent easy access to cigarettes but also will have a huge psychological impact on you.

Tip #3

Avoid places and situations that would prompt you to lighting up a cigarette. For example if you light up your first cigarette with your morning coffee, replace it with herbal tea; avoid going to pubs or night clubs during your first ex-smoker weeks.

Tip #4

Get stop smoking aids after consulting with your doctor. Nicotine patches or gums may help you a lot in the smoking cessation process and relieve the withdrawal symptoms.

Tip #5

Start saving the money that you used to spend on cigarettes. You will soon discover that you have put aside enough to buy something nice for yourself.

Tip #6

Take part in regular sport activities. Start with long walks, buy a bike and cycle to your work or just for fun, roller-blade, or go swimming. Any physical activity is good and it is up to you to pick up the ones that most suit your personality. Sport will not only help improve your appearance but it will help your body detox and reduce both the cravings and the cessation symptoms.

Top #7

Change your eating habits, eat more fresh fruits and vegetables, and drink a lot of liquids. A healthy diet will help with a) prevent you from gaining weight and b) reduce the withdrawal symptoms.

Tip #8

Ask your family and friends to be supportive. The first week after you put away the cigarettes may leave you nervous and irritable so it is vital that they understand your behavior and help you.

Top #9

The funniest one of all tips to give up smoking but it really works – think of reward scheme. For example “if I do not smoke for a couple of weeks I will buy …” You can promise yourself a big prize if you manage not to smoke for three months – something like a vacation or a trip to an exotic place.

Tip #10

Here is the last of the top ten tips to give up smoking: be very patient and believe that you can do it. Your will and dedication will help you stop smoking more than any other therapy or medications. Smoking is 70% connected with your mind and only 30% with your body.