Quitting smoking is one of the most difficult things anyone can attempt. It is truly a proud moment when one can say “I’ve quit smoking” and really mean it. Many will try unsuccessfully over and over- but eventually, success is possible! Once of my new favorite mindsets applies here- What if all the failed attempts were thought of as just practices for the real event- and not failures? Each time we do not succeed- we do learn something new- so keep a positive mindset.
One way to think positive is to look at the good things that are happening to your body when you quit- and try not to obsess about the “cravings” – don’t let them override your underlying goal- to live longer and feel healthy.
My doctor has a list posted of the physiologic changes that occur once you stop smoking. I find them inspiring. Here they are:
-Within 20 minutes of stopping smoking, blood pressure, heart rate and temperature of hands and feet normalize.
-Within 8 hours, oxygen and carbon dioxide levels normalize.
– At 1 day, risk of heart attack decreases.
– 2 days, sense of smell and taste improves. Nerve endings start to regenerate.
-2 weeks to 3 months- circulation and breathing improves. It becomes easier to walk.
– At 1 to 9 months, coughing, sinus congestion,shortness of breath and fatigue decrease. Energy increases.
-1 year- risk of heart attack was 1/2 what it was one year ago.
-5 years- risk of Lung CA, mouth, heart and esophageal cancer is cut in 1/2.
– At 10 years out, risk of dying of Lung CA is equal to non smokers. Precancerous cells are gone! Once you’ve gone 15 years out, your risk of heart disease is the same as if you never smoked!
SO- if you fail once, try, try again. It’s so worth it. Your family and friends want you to be around for a long time!