Some jobs, especially those in some medical fields, are especially stressful. When you are trying to quit, job stress is often amplified. You need to do something, anything, to take your mind off of wanting a cigarette. The healthiest and most effective thing to do is exercise. If you can, walk away from your desk for fifteen minutes for a power walk. If you cannot leave your desk, try exercising in your seat. Do leg lifts, tummy crunches or arm circles. Also try positive visualization. Print out an uplifting quote, such as, “I can do this,” and post it on the wall near your seat. When you are especially stressed, take a minute to read your quote to yourself. As a last resort, grab a healthy snack. Snacking helps you take your mind off of wanting a cigarette and gives you some oral gratification as well. Try pretzel rods, they are shaped just right and are healthier than most other choices. Make sure you talk to your doctor about any lifestyle changes you are making. He or she may be able to help guide you on your individual journey to becoming smoke free.
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Christine Emmick, ReadyToQuit's resident Q&A expert, is an ex-smoker of over 17 years.
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Electronic cigarettes are becoming more widely available and may seem like miracle of science to some, but they are hardly a miracle cure. They are potentially toxic and, of course, are still loaded with nicotine.
Some jobs, especially those in some medical fields, are especially stressful. When you are trying to quit, job stress is often amplified. You need to do something, anything, to take your mind off of wanting a cigarette. The healthiest and most effective thing to do is exercise. If you can, walk away from your desk for fifteen minutes for a power walk. If you cannot leave your desk, try exercising in your seat. Do leg lifts, tummy crunches or arm circles. Also try positive visualization. Print out an uplifting quote, such as, “I can do this,” and post it on the wall near your seat. When you are especially stressed, take a minute to read your quote to yourself. As a last resort, grab a healthy snack. Snacking helps you take your mind off of wanting a cigarette and gives you some oral gratification as well. Try pretzel rods, they are shaped just right and are healthier than most other choices. Make sure you talk to your doctor about any lifestyle changes you are making. He or she may be able to help guide you on your individual journey to becoming smoke free.
Christine Emmick, ReadyToQuit's resident Q&A expert, is an ex-smoker of over 17 years.