While quitting smoking can look like an easy task for some, most ex-smokers have hit a few rough patches along the way due to stress. Although social support can make a huge difference for those combating nicotine and tobacco addiction, breaking up with combustible cigarettes is a process that’s totally unique to you. So, since Stress Awareness Day (April 16) is right around the corner, our focus will be on how to stop smoking when you’re put under physical and mental pressures. Let’s start with these four stress-relieving strategies.
Give yourself a break if you happen to have a slip-up
One of the most common factors that contribute to relapse for ex-smokers is stress. So, whether you’re currently trying to transition away from the use of tobacco products or have long since quit but are struggling to remain smoke-free, the temptation to pick up a combustible cigarette can increase when there is mounting stress around you. Since quitting smoking comes with a variety of challenges that each individual overcomes on their own terms, it’s important to be good to yourself and remember that your progress may differ from those around you. While waving goodbye to combustible cigarettes is never easy, optimism paired with a “can-do” attitude is key in making these steps towards alleviating your quit-smoking stresses.
With that said, if you’re facing an extremely stressful time, we recommend using Logic e-cigs to help with the physical or mental stresses that can come from nicotine withdrawal. These innovative products allow you to satisfy your nicotine cravings while curbing the need for tobacco, and with the same great flavors, you can keep calm while lowering your nicotine levels over time.
Focus your attention on your end goals
Whether your goal is to quit smoking because of financial reasons, for your health, or your family, focusing on your end goals is a great resource for keeping you motivated and grounded. Since there is no one-size-fits-all way for how to stop smoking, remember to acknowledge your intentions often throughout your quit-smoking process.
Notice your stress triggers
While you may not always be prepared to deal with the factors around you that cause you to stress, when you know what your triggers are, it’s easier to avoid them. Stress has a way of rearranging your emotions so that you react angry, anxious, or sad in particular situations. Leading to physical symptoms like a headache, upset stomach, or sudden craving, stress can stunt your quit-smoking progress. That being said, if being around those that smoke is a stressful trigger for you, you should distance yourself from loved ones who aren’t willing to be smoke-free in your presence. Needless to say, if you find yourself more stressed by your mental dependency to combustible cigarettes, a Logic e-cig is a great substitute to keep your hands busy.
Exercise often
Being active is a great method for handling stress. Aside from boosting the chemicals in your brain that help you to feel good, your body’s movement also allows you to focus your energy on something else. Activities such as yoga are a popular way to alleviate stress, as the strength-training discipline encourages deep breathing exercises and medication the enduring physical postures that make it such a great form of exercise. Since no one technique will work for everyone, you need to get comfortable with stress-reducing activities that you love!
Are there other ways that you reduce your stress levels that we didn’t mention above? Please drop your ideas down below to share with other readers.
