Making the switch to a smoke-free lifestyle is a huge accomplishment. But as any ex-smoker knows, it’s also just the beginning. The next step is staying smoke-free, which means making some lifestyle changes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fewer than one in ten adult cigarette smokers could succeed in quitting yearly. You must do whatever you can to set yourself up for success.
If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few things you can do to increase your chances of success:
Create a fitness routine
Making time for physical activity is crucial when trying to quit smoking. Exercise can help reduce withdrawal symptoms, improve your mood, and give you a healthy outlet for stress. And the good news is that you don’t have to be a gym rat to reap the benefits. Just 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week can make a big difference.
So, if you’re not already active, start slow and work your way up. And if you find yourself struggling to stick with a workout routine, try mixing things up or finding an activity you enjoy. When it comes to exercise, anything that gets you moving is a step in the right direction.
Fitness is all about trial and error. There are endless possibilities, so there’s bound to be something that works for you. Don’t hesitate to get out there and explore until you find an activity you love.
Change your diet
Quitting smoking is an excellent opportunity to reassess your eating habits. After all, smoking can take a toll on your health in more ways than one. So, if you’re looking to improve your health, ditching unhealthy foods is a great place to start.
Processed foods, for example, are often high in unhealthy fats, salt, and sugar. And while they may be quick and easy food solutions, they’re not doing your body any favors. On the other hand, whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean protein are well-packed with nutrients that can help improve your health.
If you’re used to eating convenience foods, now is the time to make a change. Start by slowly incorporating more healthy meals into your diet. And don’t be afraid to experiment in the kitchen. There are plenty of healthy recipes out there that are both delicious and easy to make.
Improve your appearance
Nicotine can cause your physical appearance to suffer in many ways. It can make your skin look dull and dry, your teeth yellow, and your hair unhealthy. So, one of the best things you can do for yourself after quitting smoking is to focus on improving your appearance.
Start by taking care of your skin. Moisturize regularly, avoid harsh chemicals and sun exposure, and be gentle with your skin. These simple steps can help improve the appearance of your skin and make you feel better about yourself.
Next, focus on your teeth. Brush and floss regularly, and consider teeth whitening treatments to help restore your smile. Many over-the-counter whitening products are available, or you can ask your dentist about professional options.
And finally, don’t forget about your hair. Quitting smoking can improve your hair’s health, so take advantage of it. Treat your hair with care, use quality products, and get regular trims to keep it looking its best.
When you look good, you feel good. So, take the time to improve your appearance after quitting smoking, and you’ll be on your way to a healthier lifestyle.
Set realistic goals
Quitting smoking is a big accomplishment, but it’s only the first step in living a smoke-free life. If you want to stay on track, it’s essential to set realistic goals for yourself.
Start by setting a goal to stay smoke-free for one week. Once you reach that goal, set another one for two weeks, and so on. And be sure to celebrate your accomplishments along the way. Each milestone is a step in the right direction, so take the time to reward yourself.
You may also want to set goals for improving your health. If you’re unsure where to start, consider a plan to eat healthy meals or exercise a week thrice. And remember, these goals should be realistic. Trying to do too much too soon can be overwhelming, so take it slow and focus on one thing at a time.
Find a support group
Quitting smoking is hard, but you don’t have to do it alone. Many resources and support groups are available to help you on your journey. These groups can provide motivation, advice, and a listening ear when needed.
So, if you’re feeling lonely or lost during your quit attempt, reach out for help. You may be surprised at how much a support group can help.
Quitting smoking is a challenge, but it’s worth taking on. You can improve your health, appearance, and overall wellbeing with the above lifestyle changes. And with the support of family and friends, you can make it through the tough times. So, ditch the nicotine and start living a healthier life today.
