[PetLover]

Well, I have finally decided I want to quit smoking. The new no smoking laws go into effect in January and I just realized how much money I would save by not smoking. I am also tired of being out of breath and wheezing, just by bending over and tieing my shoes.
I would really like any tips anyone here has on what they did to stop smoking.

Wish me luck!

[MissyChrissy]

I've heard chantix (sp?) is really good.

Me, cold turkey worked best. I got "pissed" at the cravings and when my body wanted to smoke, I'd get angry and say, "No you don't. I control me, not my cigarette craving." It helped me to mentally visualize the cigarette craving as a separate entity from myself...something to conquer and beat. I've been cigarette free for 3.5 years.

[PetLover]

3 1/2 years ....WOW, Congrats!

[MissyChrissy]

Thanks. They say that the more often you try to quit smoking, the more likely you are to succeed. So I encourage you to quit, and if you start again, just quit again. Keep quitting until you're successful.

Smoking is like a best friend that will ultimately knife you in the back and kill you. I remember feeling like a part of me was missing without my cigarettes and lighter. People don't realize the entire life altering thing quitting smoking is. It's much more than just a bad habit. It OWNS you, you're a slave to a craving. It's up to you to break free.

[MissyChrissy]

oh-I also wanted to add that it DOES get much, much easier with time. But even after all this time, there are days when I could drive down to the gas station & buy another pack and happily smoke one. I don't know if it ever totally leaves you 100%. It certainly gets easier to manage, the longer you're smoke free.

[PetLover]

Well....so far this is day 1 and I am doing ok with it so far. Been snacking a little more...so I guess I should start using my treadmill.

[LovingJesusinAZ]

CONGRATS ON MAKING IT THIS FAR!!

I'm not a smoker, but my dad was for about 30 years so I grew up watching him battle his addiction. He first tried quitting in the early 80's when his father was diagnosed with, and eventually died from, lung cancer. He tried accupuncture, cold turkey, hypnosis, you name it.

Finally, in 1998, on his 47th birthday he was able to quit for good using a combination of the gum and the patch.

I am very proud of my dad that he's quit smoking and wish you all the best!!!!!

[MissyChrissy]

Drink lots of water. It helps with the cravings, fills you up, and helps detox your body of nicotine (I work in an office that counsels those trying to quit smoking).

Good luck! I really do wish you the best!!!

[Jocelynbell]

My brother in law tried 3 times and it has worked well this time (5 years now). You have to remove yourself from the places and people that trigger the smoking as well.

My mil stopped for 2 months and the a "friend" lit up in her apartment and away she went.
Do not replace food in your mouth for the smoke. Try nic gum or tictacs etc. It really helps! The patch is helpful and some medical plans cover it too!

Way to go! Looking forward to seeing how you do! You should seek out a board that specializes in quitting smoking too.

[poliscmjr]

I quit because I got pregnant and couldn't stand the smell! I'm now 9 weeks smoke free! I have no earge what so ever to even go back!

One day at a time...you can do it!!!!