As you probably already know, smoking is a difficult habit to give up. When the urge to smoke starts to come on, the easiest thing to do is grab a cigarette.
Trying another activity when that feeling arises could help you replace smoking entirely. The great thing is that there are many other activities you could do as an alternative.
Here are a few things to try as a positive replacement for smoking.
1. Spend Time Outside
There’s nothing like getting fresh air out in nature. Find a park or nature trail that’s near you and enjoy doing outdoor activities such as walking or bird watching.
If you live near an ocean or a lake, enjoy a good swim or try fishing. A warm sunny day can be the perfect distraction from smoking, whether you partake in a hike up a mountain or a nice stroll on the beach.
2. Exercise
If you’re having an urge or just need to blow off some steam, exercising is one of the best habits to replace smoking. It helps you live a less sedentary lifestyle, and it’s also fun.
Different options to consider include going for a run or lifting some weights. You don’t even have to go to a gym to do these things.
Look for a workout video online to follow along whenever you decide to exercise. The most important thing is to find a physical activity that you enjoy, such as dancing or boxing. Find an exercise that engages you the most so that you consistently do it whenever you feel like smoking.
3. Find a New Hobby
A new hobby opens the door to numerous habits to replace smoking. There are a variety of hobbies to try, including planting a garden, playing an instrument, and doing jigsaw puzzles. Find something new that sparks your interest and start doing that activity on a regular basis.
Additionally, you can try your hand at some home renovations. Smoking often leaves lingering smoke smells in different rooms. Take time to learn how professionals remove smoke smells from a house. You can get ideas on how to tackle the issue in your home.
4. Relax
Sometimes, the best thing to do is just relax. When you’re at the end of a long workday, take time to relax with a warm bath, some tea, or a book.
Think of something that you like to do that helps to calm your nerves. Listening to music is one way many people like to unwind at the end of the day. Other popular activities that some find helpful for relaxing include meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and tai chi.
Taking time to relax your stresses can make the pull of a cigarette feel less all-encompassing. While smoking less is hard sometimes, you can do it with a few distractions. Feel free to alternate between these different habits anytime you feel the urge to light a cigarette.
