Dealing with Stress

[historyteach]

How will we deal with stress without a cigarette?
Let's face it, a cigarette has been our stress reliever for years. It helped us refocus and because of that refocus, calmed us down. (Note - it was the refocus, NOT the cigarette that calmed us down! Cigarettes actually are a stimulant!)

So, here are some helpful hints:

Eat a better diet.
Yea, those greasy burgers can actually be a trigger for a sickarette!

Drink less caffine.
The effects of caffine can increase when we quit. And that can make us feel more nervous or cranky.

Spend time with positive, supportive people.
Like here on SR!

So something.
Exercise. Walk the dog. Paint. Knit. Play cards, go bowling, do something with your hands. Post before you puff! Anything helps!

Drink lots of water.
Carry a bottle with you, and take a cleansing drink anytime you feel an urge to smoke.

Get enough sleep.
Most adults need 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Take short naps if needed. (See tips in our insomnia forum if you need help with sleeping.)

Treat yourself to something nice. Get a message or a pedicure. Go fishing with some friends. Doing something relaxing can work miracles for your stress and your quit!

There's 7 tips for dealing with your stress.
Can you add any more?

L'Chaim!
(To Life!)