When you’re ready to quit smoking, you may feel that you need some support. But what kind of support can you get if you want to avoid nicotine replacement or medications? There are actually several things you can do to get some natural help for quitting smoking.
Hypnosis
Hypnosis is a natural way to help you kick the smoking habit. The idea of hypnosis is to help you reach a state in which your mind is open to suggestion. You’re not at all unconscious – in fact during hypnosis you’re actually more aware of what’s going on.
But you’ll be more relaxed and you’ll be able to concentrate on suggestions for giving up smoking as well as the reasons for doing so. Hypnosis will help you to accept these ideas and make better choices – but it can’t be used to make you do anything you don’t want to do.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture can be very helpful with balancing the energy in your body and reducing your cravings for nicotine. During acupuncture small needles are inserted just below your skin to help open up energy pathways.
For smoking, the ear is the most common place for acupuncture sites. You can also have seeds placed on your ear to help with long-term relief. These are tiny metallic balls that provide pressure on acupuncture points. They’re held down with tape and can be worn for several days at a time.
Exercise
Exercise is a wonderful way to get relief when you’re trying to quit smoking. It helps your brain to release endorphins which are chemicals that make you feel happier and reduce stress.
Studies have shown that people who exercise while quitting smoking have higher success rates. Exercise can also help to reduce your risk of gaining weight when you quit smoking. Walking, jogging, cycling, or any exercise that gets your heart rate up will work.
Tai Chi is a type of exercise that has been shown to be very effective. This is a martial art that’s very relaxing. It helps to reduce stress and is a good substitute for smoking cigarettes to unwind.
Meditation
Meditation is a great way to relax your mind, body, and spirit and support your efforts to quit smoking. There are several guided meditations available as CDs or mp3s you can use specifically to aid you as you quit smoking.
These take about 45 minutes of your time each day to deliver the support you need. But even a few minutes each day is better than nothing.
