Five Ways to Work Around Your Morning Nicotine Cravings
It’s no wonder that mornings can be tough when you're quitting. If you’re the type of smoker who has your first cigarette in the morning, here are some healthier ways to kick off your day without lighting up.
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1. Hydrate
Swap your first cigarette for a glass of water instead. This will change your routine and help you stay hydrated. Don’t forget, the human body is more than 60% water. So, toast the morning with a glass of H2O, lemon or lime wedge optional.
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2. Short exercise bursts
Exercise can improve your mood and relieve stress. Start out by doing one minute each of push-ups, sit-ups, and jumping jacks. Exercising first thing in the morning is an easy way to squeeze fitness into your day. If you’re busy, even five minutes can help you feel more relaxed. Consult with your doctor before starting an exercise program.
Hear ex-smoker Linda talk about how exercise helped her quit.
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3. Breathe and relax
Here’s a simple breathing exercise you can do anywhere.
Begin by closing your eyes.
1. Breathe in slowly. Then breathe
out. Say, “Peaceful in front of me.”2. Breathe in slowly. Then breathe
out. Say, “Peaceful behind me.”3. Breathe in slowly. Then breathe
out. Say, “Peaceful all around
me.”4. Repeat as necessary to be calm
and cool. -
4. Just say, “No.”
When that morning craving strikes, tell yourself, “No.” Say it out loud. Say it as often as you need each morning and throughout the day. Write the word “no” on stickies that you can place around you at work and home. Other words of inspiration you can say include, “I’m not a smoker,” “I will not let myself down” or “I’m stronger than this craving.”
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5. Switch up the scenery
If you usually began your mornings smoking in the kitchen as you drank your coffee, try drinking your coffee in your bedroom or outside instead. Settings can trigger cravings. Changing your routine can help you avoid triggers and begin the day smoke-free.
Find out how ex-smoker Alysia switched things up to help her quit.
