In a place to QUIT
I guess, like everyone else, I try to get myself to a place where I can quit
successfully.
I’ve tried to quit lots of times but this time I’ve optimized my chances
quite a bit.
I’m in a new job at a no smoking building so there’s no temptation there. I
brought a book to read in the break room during breaks and after lunch
instead of going outside to smoke.
I am really paying attention to those body que’s. The very moment that I
begin to be even the slightest bit uncomfortable (aka the craving begins) I
force myself to really think about what I can do ‘other than smoke’ to get
my body back to that even keel of contentment and I get about it right away
rather than putting it off and setting myself up to fail (again).
It makes so much sense that when you quit smoking- you have to replace it
with ’something’.
Sometimes for me that something is simply several deep breaths. Sometimes
it’s a good measure of water, raspberry tea, sometimes it’s a bite of
chocolate, or apple or a stick of gum (see the sugar theme here ;o),
stretching, or walking around for a minute or two, admiring my african
violet on my desk, whatever! - the point is, it ‘must’ be something.
So far it is all very manageable.
Thank you Steve!
Sky
August 2nd, 2007 at 8:21 am
Hello Sky,
Excellent! A suggestion… when a craving begins, view it as a
signal that there are body cues that need attention. Very often
simply observing your posture or what activity you’re involved in
will give you clue to what body cues are probably present. It’s not
uncommon to find that a couple of deep breaths will do the trick.
Maybe a bit of neck and shoulder rolling/stretching. Maybe some
fluids if thirsty, fuel if hungry, rest if tired…. you know how
this goes. Have you tried a timer to remind yourself to do a bit of
a body check? It’s an easy way to increase your awareness of subtle body cues
Absolutely. If smoking provided the deep breath when needed or
relief from uncomfortable muscles or an appetite suppressant when
hungry, then our task is to find effective alternative response
that work ‘as fast’ as smoking. That time element of ‘as fast’ is critical.
I’m glad you’re with us Sky. I hope you’ll continue to post.
Steve