Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.
The holiday season is slowly creeping upon us. It can be an especially stressful time if you have recently quit smoking.
If you have not yet quit and thinking of beginning your quit journey during the holidays – nothing is impossible! Check out the following tips:
Get Enough Rest
The holidays are a time to rest your tired body, and the cravings of smoking are stronger. You may feel less able to manage your stress so get enough sleep.
Furthermore, take that power nap as it helps to rid your mind of the craving thoughts.
Reduce Your Caffeine Intake
Do not reach for that cup of Joe when in need of an energy boost. Drinking too much caffeine leaves you feeling stressed and jittery. Try to avoid drinking extra cups of coffee to keep you awake. Instead, take a power nap and rest.
Drink Water
Keep the body hydrated with water as it helps with the cravings of not smoking. With a healthy, hydrated body, you feel better and help to manage holiday stress.
Follow a Healthy Diet
With a well-balanced diet, you can provide your body with the fuel it needs to keep moving. We are not saying you can’t enjoy the holiday treats, but keep it moderate. Eating healthy also helps to keep the weight down instead of picking it up after you quit smoking.
Exercise
Take a walk or join a gym to help ease stress. Furthermore, it helps to boost the immune system and releases all the toxins caused by smoking.
It also helps to release endorphins that make you feel good!
Take Deep Breaths
When faced with stress, sit or stand by taking deep breaths in through the nose holding it for a count of three and release through the mouth. You can repeat this for up to three times to relieve the tension from the body.
Schedule Time for You and Focus on Today
Make time for yourself instead of running around trying to complete holiday tasks all the time. Take a breather with a cup of tea to replenish your energy. Preferably drink herbal tea with some honey as it does not have caffeine that will make you feel hyped.
Most importantly focus on today and not tomorrow. The next day brings its stress so focus on today as you will feel less stressed.
Do Not Strive for Perfection
Stop being your own worst critic as you are working hard to stop smoking. So do not try to do everything yourself and delegate to others.
With the help of family, you can lessen your holiday tasks and get the family involved.
By minimizing and simplifying your tasks you do not take on too much to do in the holidays.
Make a list of things you want to accomplish and prioritize. Decide which of the tasks are relevant and do them first.
Furthermore, try to prevent financial stress if possible by drawing up a budget and stick to it. On the other hand, if you can afford it, take a mini-vacation with the family away from home.
Always acknowledge your grief if you get the holiday blues and manage your feelings by calling a friend. Count your blessings by reflecting on the essential things in your life you are grateful for as practice makes perfect.
Lastly, remember why you are quitting smoking and never lose sight of it in the holiday season. The holiday may be your first smoke-free one making you feel uncomfortable.
The truth is that QuitGo is not saying it is going to be easy! Keep your mind focused and cement new thoughts to replace your new habits.
Have a fantastic smoke-free holiday ahead!
Start your quit journey with us today!
