Are You Ready to Quit Smoking?
Many people come to me for options to quit smoking. Before providing options, it is important to become aware of why you smoke.
You may smoke for more than one reason. If you can pinpoint the reasons, you can become aware of why and work towards finding a positive substitute to replace smoking. Go thru the questions below and mark either Yes or No:
- Yes No I smoke because I light up automatically and don’t know I am doing it.
- Yes No I smoke because it is relaxing.
- Yes No I smoke because I like handling cigarettes, matches and lighters.
- Yes No I smoke to help deal with anger.
- Yes No I smoke to keep from slowing down.
- Yes No I smoke because it is unbearable not to.
- Yes No I smoke because I enjoy watching the smoke as I exhale it.
- Yes No I smoke to take my mind off my troubles.
- Yes No I smoke because I really enjoy it.
- Yes No I smoke because I feel uncomfortable without a cigarette in my hand.
- Yes No I smoke to give myself a lift.
- Yes No I smoke without planning to, it’s just part of my routine.
Now look at your Yes Answers:
#1 and #12 – you smoke from habit
Becoming aware of this is the first step. Work on finding a new habit, exercise/sports, knitting, puzzles, or any other fun thing you like that will become a new healthier habit.
#2 and #9 – you seek relaxation
There are many ways to relax, deep breathing, meditation, a new hobby, social activity, or yoga.
#3 and #7 – you like the pleasure of handling things
Try drawing, writing, knitting, playing a video game on your phone, or making jewelry.
#4 and #8 – you would benefit from tension-reducing tools
For tension, exercise is one of the best, or you may like gardening, or try some of the new video games that require you to move, like Wii or Oculus.
#5 and #11 – you seek stimulation
Here you may benefit from a natural brain stimulant, such as Gota Kola or again exercise would be a good choice. Video games would also provide stimulation.
#6 and #10 – you have a physiological addition
Best to work down nicotine levels with lower tar cigarettes or you may benefit from going cold turkey.
Supplements
Smoking makes your body toxic and depletes nutrients as well. Smokers typically do not eat well because their taste buds are not working optimally, and this prevents good nutrition also. Below are some suggestions you may find useful as you work to become a non-smoker.
Nervous system
Start nourishing your nervous system first. Feeding your adrenals and your nerves are very powerful in helping you overcome smoking. Products that work well for this are Nutri-Calm, or you could do a B-Complex with Vitamin C/Citrus Bioflavonoids.
Herbal combinations that feed the nervous system would also be beneficial such as Nerve Eight or St. John’s Wort. Follow the bottle for recommended amounts or call for a consult to ensure the best success.
Mental Nourishment
Adaptagenic Herbs would also be beneficial to help with clarity, focus, memory, and give your body something to pull from when stressed. Herbs like Astragalus, Eleuthero, Ashwagandha, and Suma Combination are a few you could investigate.
Licorice root is good for balancing blood sugar, aiding digestion, supports adrenals, and gives a boost of energy.
Minerals
It is very important to replace minerals that have been depleted in your body. Herbal Trace Minerals or Mineral Maintenance are both good choices to keep your body functioning well, calm, and helps with weight.
Detoxing
Finally, it is important to detox your liver and lungs of the smoke chemicals. It is best to neutralize the toxins and gently flush them for the best results.
Many other products could be beneficial depending on your body’s specifics needs. Reach out if you need specific recommendations.
Lastly, this is truly the best resource to help you and it is available in all 50 states, it is free. What have you got to lose?
*Original information from herbalist Dr. Jim Jenks
Photo by Andres Siimon on Unsplash
