Smoking is an unhealthy habit that can lead to numerous life-threatening diseases. Although most smokers understand that they are jeopardizing their health, it is difficult to stop using nicotine, which is one of the world’s most addictive substances. To kick the habit, most people need assistance. The following is a list of scientifically proven, all-natural ways to help individuals stop smoking.
Herbal Supplements
Several herbal supplements can reduce cravings for cigarettes, ease the symptoms of withdrawal and help you quit smoking. Cayenne and black pepper help to control nicotine cravings. Chewing licorice root helps satisfy the oral fixation of smoking. By raising dopamine levels, St. John’s Wort provides the same feelings that people experience when smoking a cigarette. Rhodiola rosea reduces cortisol levels, increases energy and improves mood, which enables your body to cope with the stress of withdrawal.
Acupuncture is an effective way to help you stop smoking. This drug-free technique calms the mind by increasing the levels of the brain chemical known as serotonin. It helps you work through the withdrawal symptoms of nicotine addiction, such as restlessness, irritability and the jitters. The Tim Mee, or stop smoking acupuncture point, can change the way a cigarette tastes. Acupuncture also helps to detoxify the body and reduce cravings.
Massage
Studies have shown that self-massage techniques can help curb the cravings associated with nicotine. Simply touching your ear or gently rubbing your hands can calm your mind. People who engaged in self-massage for two minutes whenever they felt the urge to smoke were shown to smoke less, had lower anxiety levels, enhanced moods and experienced fewer withdrawal symptoms.
Meditation is another way for individuals to calm their minds and improve the probability that they will stop smoking. Individuals who meditate are able to keep their emotions under control and better regulate their cravings. They also experience less stress and fewer withdrawal symptoms. Meditation encourages people to adopt healthier lifestyles as well.
Hypnotherapy
While not supported by clinical studies, anecdotal evidence suggests that hypnotherapy can help people stop smoking. This psychotherapeutic technique produces a trance-like state that allows the therapist to introduce a suggestion, which gives you a negative feeling toward smoking. The sessions also enable you to realize your true feelings and help you to stay motivated about quitting.
While these natural remedies are proven smoke-cessation methods that can help you, they cannot change your habits. You still must exercise the will power required to quit and remain smoke free.
