How to Keep that Quit Smoking New Year Resolution

One of the best things you can do for yourself this New Year is to quit smoking. Studies show that the benefits of quitting smoking start as soon as 20 minutes after you exhale that last puff.

While the process of actually quitting is a grueling one, the benefits to your overall health are undeniable. So how exactly are you supposed to keep your resolve throughout the New Year? You’ve tried the nicotine gum, the patch, and you’ve tried cold turkey and nothing works! Good ol’ Scratch is here to give you a few simple pointers you may not have thought about before.

1. 1. Write down your reasons!
      Why is it that you’ve decided to quit smoking? Whether you have health concerns, you’re doing it for your family, you want to save money, or you simply want to smell better, it’s important to keep these reasons in mind every day to keep you on track. Write down your reasons on a piece of paper and keep that list in your wallet at all times. Any time you get a craving for a cigarette, take out that paper and read it to remind yourself why you’ve decided to quit.

1. 1. Set a quit date
      Decide on what day you want to douse your addiction. Prepare for that last cigarette and mentally get ready for the “first day of the rest of your life.” Picking a quit date and leading up to it will help you face the reality of quitting easier than simply waking up one morning and deciding on a whim to go cold-turkey.

1. 1. Begin an exercise program
      Exercise will help you relieve the stress of quitting and help your body recover from the damages that cigarettes have taken on you over the years. Invest in a new pair of running shoes and go out for a morning job every day. If that’s not your speed, think about getting some exercise equipment so that you can have a daily reminder in your living room to keep at both your fitness routine and your resolve to quit smoking.

1. 1. Have your teeth cleaned
      Getting your teeth cleaned will be a nice treat for yourself and your nice, bright smile will help you immediately see the benefits of quitting.

1. Drink lots of water
   Not only is water really good for you, but it will also help flush out some of the nicotine and other chemicals from your body. Less nicotine in your system means less cravings and more confidence when it comes to quitting.

So there you have it! Good luck with those resolutions and let’s hope that the start of 2012 means a healthier, happier you!