The Best Way to Quit Smoking for You

The best way to quit smoking varies from individual to individual; once you’ve made the positive decision to quit smoking, you will be on a quest to discover which method is the best way for you.

You can choose from a variety of over-the-counter remedies, such as nicotine patches, nicotine gums, nicotine nasal sprays, even nicotine inhalers and lozenges. Your doctor can prescribe a drug like Zyban, or you can explore the merits of the new stop smoking injections on the market. You can also look into alternative ways to quit smoking; acupuncture, hypnosis, laser therapy, and nutritional supplements are just a few of the most popular ones.

Your Best Way to Quit Smoking

The very best way to quit smoking is your own personal, definite, committed decision to quit. No method can magically do the work for you; it takes will power and determination to see you through.

Once you’ve made this decision, any method you choose has a better chance of success for you. In addition, there are things that you can do to create a positive, nonsmoking environment – both mentally and physically. Successful quitting takes planning and actions, day in and day out. Small incremental changes each day will lead you to the outcome you desire: a life free of cigarettes.

Create a New Atmosphere for Yourself

When you decide to quit smoking, you’ve made a decision that will affect all areas of your life. This is a radical, life-changing decision, so it’s a good time to reflect on the other areas of your life and make some adjustments there as well. Here are some suggestions to recreate yourself as a nonsmoker:

• Throw out all your smoking paraphernalia – ashtrays, lighters, anything that has to do with smoking.
• Start an exercise program, even if it’s just walking around the block at first. You will have newfound vitality when you quit smoking, so becoming physically fit is one of the best ways to channel that energy.
• One of the best ways to quit smoking is to find a support group locally that you can join. Here you will find encouragement and helpful tips and resources to keep you motivated and strong. You’ll develop new friendships along the way too.
• Drink lots and lots of water. Staying hydrated is important; you are flushing out lots of toxins from the nicotine build-up in your system.
• Try to avoid situations where you know you’ll be tempted to smoke. This might be difficult, especially at first. But try suggesting some alternative activities; you might be surprised at how receptive even your smoking friends are to doing something different for a change.

Remember, the best way to quit smoking is to start today and never, ever give up. You can do it!