How to Manage Stress When Quitting Smoking

When you are stressed, the urge to smoke can be more intense compared to when you are feeling calm. People who are addicted to cigarettes often associate having a smoke with staying calm, but the truth is that smoking can create a cycle of stress. Figuring out how to cope with stress without having a cigarette can be difficult when you first quit smoking, but the good news is that there are plenty of alternatives to consider that are just as healthy. With time and practice, you may find that managing your stress levels without having a cigarette is easier than you first thought.

Consider Nicotine Replacements

Nicotine is the addictive component in cigarettes, but the truth is that on its own it does not pose any serious health risks. Because of this, many experts recommend using nicotine replacement products to help you quit smoking successfully and keep your stress levels down. Using a nicotine replacement product means that you do not have to go completely cold turkey and won’t get the stressful withdrawal symptoms that come with quitting. You can use a range of nicotine products including sprays, gum, lozenges, and vaping products from redjuice.co.uk.

Cut Down on Caffeine

When you quit smoking, you might find that you get more jittery and anxious when consuming coffee and other caffeinated products. Reducing your caffeine consumption or even cutting out caffeine completely while you get used to being a non-smoker can be very helpful for keeping your stress levels in check, especially if you are having trouble sleeping at night.

Go for a Walk

A short walk daily can make it easier for you to manage stress while you are quitting smoking. Walking will improve your circulation and release endorphins or ‘feel good’ hormones into your bloodstream that will help you feel calmer, more relaxed, and less on edge. Whenever you get the urge to have a cigarette, go out for a short walk if you can – even getting outside for five to ten minutes can make all the difference to how you feel.

Breathing Exercises

When you are feeling stressed and on edge, deep breathing exercises can help you get back to a place of calm, without having a cigarette. There are several different breathing exercises to try. One simple option is to just breathe in deeply through your nose for a count of three and then exhale through your mouth for a count of three. Repeat this until you feel less tense and more able to relax.

Get Enough Sleep

When you first start quitting smoking it can be very tiring due to the additional stress on your body and mind. However, the good news is that the longer you remain a non-smoker, the more energy you will regain. In the early days, however, making sure that you are getting enough sleep at night will help you keep your strength up and stay in control of your journey.

Quitting smoking can be a stressful process, but it’s definitely worth it in the end. Keep these tips in mind to better manage your stress levels as you adjust to not having a cigarette.