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Quitting Smoking Tips: Smoking has spread like an epidemic across the world including India. Most people know the harms of cigarette addiction and want to quit it, but the craving for nicotine pulls them back to the same path. Quitting cigarettes is not just a game of willpower but it requires the right strategy and scientific approach.

If you are also going through this struggle, then these easy and effective methods suggested by doctors may be useful for you.

Identify your triggers

Most people smoke at certain times or situations, such as with coffee, while drinking alcohol or when under stress. Doctors recommend that first write down the reasons that remind you of cigarettes. Once you recognize your triggers, it will be easier to avoid them.

5 minute rule

The urge to smoke a cigarette usually lasts only 5 to 10 minutes. Whenever you feel the urge, divert your attention somewhere else. Play a game, call a friend, or just take deep breaths. As soon as those 5 minutes pass, your cravings will automatically reduce.

nicotine replacement therapy

Quitting cigarettes suddenly sometimes causes withdrawal symptoms such as irritability or headache. In such a situation, nicotine patch, gum or spray can be used on the advice of the doctor. This helps the body to gradually wean itself off nicotine.

Choose a healthy replacement

Whenever you feel like keeping a cigarette in your mouth, chew fennel seeds, cardamom, sugar-free gum or carrot pieces instead. It helps calm oral fixation (habit of keeping something in the mouth).

Drink plenty of water and exercise

By drinking more water, nicotine and other toxins accumulated in the body get flushed out. Also, exercising releases endorphin hormone in the body which reduces stress and does not allow one to feel the need of smoking.

Don’t be afraid of failure

If despite trying, you smoke a cigarette once again, do not consider it as your defeat. Most people are able to quit completely only after several attempts. Learn from your mistake and start fresh the next day.

Quitting cigarettes is like rejuvenating your lungs. After just 20 minutes of quitting, your blood pressure starts returning to normal and within a year your risk of heart diseases is halved. Make a promise to yourself today and give your life a new chance.