Smoke Free Group

vrdz3215

Hey guys! I recently quit smoking and started a thread about it and it was suggested that I should start a group for me and others who are struggling with quitting smoking. I think that it would be great to get feed back from others that are going through the same trials and tribulations that go with quitting for good.

CrystalT

I quit a few months ago myself. At first, I was doing good about not gaining weight because of it. For some reason, the past month has been a lot harder. I miss my after dinner cig and I feel like something is missing. I can't seem to find something to make me feel satisfied that dinner is over. I end up snacking to try to get that. I'm rapidly undoing what I worked so hard for. I just don't know what to do to get it back under control.

vrdz3215

i too have been doing well with not replacing cigs with food...so far. Have you tried chewing gum (sugar free of course, I love extra strawberry banana its like dessert) or may b if you want to snack try some raw veggies like carrotts or celery that have few cals....I too am afraid that I will undo all my hard work, but think about it this way, atleast you will have more energy to exercise and can breathe much better!

Congrats on 84 days! I can't wait til I can say Ive been smoke free for that long. Its been two weeks and it feels like 2 years!!!!!

xsargex

I don't smoke, but this is a great thread. Too all the smokers, congrats on whatever goal you've made so far. Thats awesome. Please for the sake of yourself, your loved ones and the rest of us....keep it up!

I have a close friend. Who's smoked most of his life. His parents smoke. His siblings smoke. His mother just had a stroke a few months ago, she continues to smoke. Its just really sad. My buddy, he's got a two-year old daughter now. He smokes a pack a day. I know he wants to quit and he just won't try.

I was wondering what is everyone's anti-smoking plan? How do you do it? Whats your methods?

hasiangirl

can i join?....i'd like to quit smoking...i havent yet built up the strength to do it =/...im at about a pack and a half a day...not only are they expensive but i cant run as far as i used to be able to

shanwow16

I've been smoke free for 10 months now, the first month or so will be the hardest, if you can make it through that you will be fine!! I found the best way for me was to change my existing habits and to give up some of my other addictions (seems crazy....but you need to).
I gave up caffeine shortly before I quit smoking, so I really didn't "need" a coffee, it was more of just a guilty pleasure. Once I quit, I stopped drinking coffee as that was an association I had with smoking. As for that yummy after dinner smoke, I took up walking which is what lead me to my weight loss goals. I kept myself busy by walking, working out & concentrating on healthier snacks. The less I sat around at home, the less I felt the urge to need a smoke.

It's still hard some days.....take a HUGE deep breath in through your nose and exhale through your mouth until the anxiety feeling passes. Remember WHY you decided to quit in the first place!!

Best of luck to you both and good job for getting this far!

Bella151

I just want to say congratulations to all of you who quit smoking!! I know how hard the temptations can be, especially when you get stressed and you have to find a healthy alternative to what you use to do (smoking). I have been smoke free for almost three years now, and I must say it was a long and hard journey, but my body is thanking me for it now! Everytime you feel that urge to pick up a cigarette, just think about what the inside of your lungs will look like if you continue to smoke, and think about all the years you will add to your life by not smoking! Also, and this worked for me, but everytime I wanted a cigarette, I would get down and do 10 pushups, or 50 crunches, or something to that effect. By the time I got done, the urge was gone, and I was toning up too. Remember, it only takes 28 days for the body to stop craving the nicotene, then after that it is just the habit of smoking that you really are dealing with. I know all of you will be strong, and I am here to support you 100%!!!!!

Christina

Fit4Vet

I've been smoke free since May 29 @ 3:30p.m.:bigsmile:

A few weeks ago, I could have told you EXACTLY how long ago that was...but now, I don't even know. There is way too much other stuff to worry about than me missing a cig. Once you get past the initial withdrawals, it will get better.

Most people replace cigs with food or a patch or a pill or a nic gum, me..well I replaced it with healthy living. When I really want a cig, I try to do some exercise. Try walking around the block or running in place or jumping jacks. Bet you will not think about it for long!

Not to get all mushy, but the best thing I ever did for myself was quit smoking - the only way that I have stayed smoke free as long as I have is because I asked God to take it from me because I know that my "human" side may not have had the will power.

So, when the going gets tough, my advise are these 2 things...pray & jump around a little while!

I'll be around if you need a shoulder to cry on otherwise! Lots of hugs to you both & I'll keep you in my prayers!

xsargex

I just want to say congratulations to all of you who quit smoking!! I know how hard the temptations can be, especially when you get stressed and you have to find a healthy alternative to what you use to do (smoking). I have been smoke free for almost three years now, and I must say it was a long and hard journey, but my body is thanking me for it now! Everytime you feel that urge to pick up a cigarette, just think about what the inside of your lungs will look like if you continue to smoke, and think about all the years you will add to your life by not smoking! Also, and this worked for me, but everytime I wanted a cigarette, I would get down and do 10 pushups, or 50 crunches, or something to that effect. By the time I got done, the urge was gone, and I was toning up too. Remember, it only takes 28 days for the body to stop craving the nicotene, then after that it is just the habit of smoking that you really are dealing with. I know all of you will be strong, and I am here to support you 100%!!!!!

Christina

pushups for smoking? your so boot.

CrystalT

I was wondering what is everyone's anti-smoking plan? How do you do it? Whats your methods?

I actually quit cold turkey. I tried the lozenges, but they tasted awful & made my stomach hurt. My husband used the patches and they worked wonderfully for him. I didn't use them because I have really sensative skin & I was worried about irritation from them.

CrystalT

can i join?....i'd like to quit smoking...i havent yet built up the strength to do it =/...im at about a pack and a half a day...not only are they expensive but i cant run as far as i used to be able to

We quit because of the prices. Here in Arkansas, it went up like $1.50 or $2 within a month or so. We just couldn't keep paying those kinds of prices.

I really believe that anyone can stop smoking if they really want it. However if your boyfriend smokes, it will make it 10 times hard to quit if he is still smoking. I tried quitting a year ago, but my husband was still smoking and it was just too tempting not to have the occasional cig when I was stressed. I picked the habit back up when it was announced that the company I work for was being bought. The worry over a possible layoff and the fact there were cigarettes in the house were just too much.

We quit together this time and it worked a lot better. We've had some pretty awful things happen over the past month and neither of us has broken down yet. Now that I think about it, maybe I'm not gaining weight because I quit smoking. Maybe I'm gaining weight because of the stress and worry over the other things going on.

new_Kendra

Try brushing your teeth when you have a craving or directly after your meal. This works well when you are at home. I am now 6 days smoke free and it hasn't been TOO bad. They discontinued my brand of cigarettes which makes it ALOT easier for me. You are an inspiration! Good luck...it is well worth it.

stormieweather

I quit cold turkey after 34 years, on May 22, 2009.

No patches, gum, or other aid. I told everyone I was going to quit on that date and there was no way I could let any of them (particularly my children) know I wasn't strong/determined enough to do it.

I'm here on MFP because I don't want to put on weight as a result of quitting, but want to get fit instead.

vrdz3215

can i join?....i'd like to quit smoking...i havent yet built up the strength to do it =/...im at about a pack and a half a day...not only are they expensive but i cant run as far as i used to be able to

Absolutely you can join! I have been in your shoes and wanted to quit but did not think that i would have the strength. I tried cold turkey and that just did not work for me. I am on the patch, but I only wear it while I am at work. I will admit that I have slipped twice, but instead of going and buying a pack after the slip, (which is what ive done in the past when I tried to quit) I just chocked it up to a slip and am still smoke free...I have to say that I feel so much better, have more energy and my teeth look whiter..(lol). I think what has helped me so much this time is having a good support system, my BF does not smoke and has wanted me to quit since we have been together because he watched his mother die of COPD as a result of smoking 3 packs a day for 30 years.

I have also decided that once I am completely smoke free for 1 month I am going to use the money that I have saved to buy the ridculously expensive HRM that I have wanted forever but couldn't afford.
What are some goals/rewards that everyone else has or are planning on?

CrystalT

I'll admit, what my hubby and I did isn't for everyone. We both really like tattoos. So we saved $15 each per week the first 10 weeks we quit. At the end, we each had $150 to spend on a tattoo. We got the tattoos at the end of June and they are both healed up now. It was his idea, but I really like it because it is a permanent reminder of what we have achieved.

vrdz3215

I'll admit, what my hubby and I did isn't for everyone. We both really like tattoos. So we saved $15 each per week the first 10 weeks we quit. At the end, we each had $150 to spend on a tattoo. We got the tattoos at the end of June and they are both healed up now. It was his idea, but I really like it because it is a permanent reminder of what we have achieved.

I like that idea, although you are right it isnt for everyone..but it worked for ya'll and ya'll deserved it! Thats awesome! If you don't mind me asking what did you get a tat of? I have 2 and want to get just 1 more....

CrystalT

I got a bird on my shoulder with some flowers surrounding it.

Bella151

I just want to say congratulations to all of you who quit smoking!! I know how hard the temptations can be, especially when you get stressed and you have to find a healthy alternative to what you use to do (smoking). I have been smoke free for almost three years now, and I must say it was a long and hard journey, but my body is thanking me for it now! Everytime you feel that urge to pick up a cigarette, just think about what the inside of your lungs will look like if you continue to smoke, and think about all the years you will add to your life by not smoking! Also, and this worked for me, but everytime I wanted a cigarette, I would get down and do 10 pushups, or 50 crunches, or something to that effect. By the time I got done, the urge was gone, and I was toning up too. Remember, it only takes 28 days for the body to stop craving the nicotene, then after that it is just the habit of smoking that you really are dealing with. I know all of you will be strong, and I am here to support you 100%!!!!!

Christina

pushups for smoking? your so boot.

Lol, yeah I know.....but this was three years ago, give me a break!

stormieweather

My reward for quitting was a family membership at the YMCA. It costs about half what I would have been spending on smokes, so I'm still saving some. And, both my partner and I, plus all three of the children, get to play and work out and have fun.

kmg621

How do I join? How do a make a "smoke free" box... I love it! It's motivational! Thanks!

Learning2LoveMe

Thanks for making this group!!

I quit the first week of May... I did really well until I ended the patch a little over a week ago. This past week I have been craving really bad... not craving the nicotine, I'm just craving holding and the act of smoking. I really miss it.

I think its because a lot of my family and my bf's family smokes so whenever I go out they all smoke. Its great because I can smell their cigarette smoke and its soothing to me but at the same time it makes me miss it even more.

Any tips to not miss it so much??

vrdz3215

Thanks for making this group!!

I quit the first week of May... I did really well until I ended the patch a little over a week ago. This past week I have been craving really bad... not craving the nicotine, I'm just craving holding and the act of smoking. I really miss it.

I think its because a lot of my family and my bf's family smokes so whenever I go out they all smoke. Its great because I can smell their cigarette smoke and its soothing to me but at the same time it makes me miss it even more.

Any tips to not miss it so much??

I COMPLETELY understand where you are coming from...i have even went to so far as asking them blow the smoke in my face! I know soooo bad but as far as tips for not missing it, I really have none. I have found that when I have the urge of holding and act I grab a straw or a pen or a pencil and "fake" smoke I know that sounds crazy but it helps. My biggest challenge with that is while I am in the car driving. I have even went so far as to "smoke" a tube of chapstick while driving, I even cracked the window and faked ashing out the window :laugh: :laugh: I know it sounds dumb, but it really helped and my craving subsided. I am like you its not so much the nicotine, its the act of doing it I miss. A friend of mine just quit also and she puts a toothpick in her mouth everytime she wants to smoke.
Try some different things, you may look like an idiot but think of what you are doing for your health.
Let's stay strong Together!!!! :happy: :happy:

vrdz3215

Oh if anyone wants a smoke free meter for their signature or blog the website to get one is
smokefreequitmeter.com!

CrystalT

Thanks for making this group!!

I quit the first week of May... I did really well until I ended the patch a little over a week ago. This past week I have been craving really bad... not craving the nicotine, I'm just craving holding and the act of smoking. I really miss it.

I think its because a lot of my family and my bf's family smokes so whenever I go out they all smoke. Its great because I can smell their cigarette smoke and its soothing to me but at the same time it makes me miss it even more.

Any tips to not miss it so much??

The only thing I've found is time. It does get better. I've always loved the smell since I grew up around smokers. I still kind of want one when I see someone smoking, but once I get close to the smell I change my mind. It smells so awful now. :sick:

Learning2LoveMe

I COMPLETELY understand where you are coming from...i have even went to so far as asking them blow the smoke in my face!

HAHAHA I do this too! :bigsmile: I've actually asked so much that when a family member goes out to smoke they'll say 'you wanna come smell it? I'll blow some in your face'. :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

I was using a straw, pen, anything round shaped to hold while I was on the patch. I guess I'm not completely past that part yet. I don't crave very often - maybe a couple times a week at the most, but when I do crave its really strong!

I recently borrowed my bf's dad's car (my car had a flat) and he is a big chain smoker. I was driving along the road and I flipped on the AC... and about a minute after I flipped it on the air blowing out smelled like an old very stale ashtray just full of ashes. It was so gross it definately killed any cravings I had and made me so happy and proud that I don't smell like that anymore and neither does my hair, clothes, house, or car!

vrdz3215

Me Too! I have sooo noticed that I don't smell like an ashtray anymore. My mom is the same way and she even smokes in the house, I went over there the other day and the smell was overwhelming which made me feel even better that I don't stink like that anymore! More power to us!!!

CrystalT

When my parents quit, my mom started accusing my dad of smoking in the bathroom at night because she would go to bed and smell cigarette smoke. (He's usually in the bathroom when she goes to bed.) He kept telling her he wasn't. Took her a while to believe him. Turned out it was the smell left in the sheets, blankets, and curtains. She stripped everything out of the bedroom and washed it. We never smoked in the house, so luckily I haven't had to do that.

peapods02

I would love to join, I need all the support I can get!!! I have been smoking for 17 years and I need to quit badly for myself, my family, and my bank account.

I went to the doctor 2 weeks ago and got on Wellbutrin, I have faithfully taken it daily, but I was not feeling any difference, then this weekend I stopped going outside as often and that pack of cigarettes was stretching out and then I was getting to the point that I did not even want to go. So last night @ 6 I have official quit smoking.

Today was actually not as bad as I thought, I stayed pretty busy, did a lot of workout dvd's and played with my son. Then my hubby got home and had a pack, so then my not too bad of a day turned into thinking about a cig, so yes I gave into the craving:frown: . To be honest I am glad that I did because I got a headache, a bad taste in my mouth and smelly hands, that was enough for me and a half of a cig later I was walking back in the house. So I told my hubby that if he is going to smoke:smokin: he needs to make sure that he either leaves the pack in the truck or hides them, but either way I do not want to know that he has them.

So I guess that tommorow is a new day and I refuse to beat myself over a slip up, and I think that I will start doing jumping jacks when the cravings sneak up on me.

Sorry about the ramblings, I have a bad habit of doing this.:embarassed:

vrdz3215

peapods02,
Congrats on your decision! Dont feel bad at all about the slip up....it happens, the good thing about it is, the cig tasted bad! A friend of my took Wellbutrin and it made her quit smoking b/c she said that cigs tasted awful when she was taking it. On the other hand, my mom takes Wellbutrin and still smokes like a freight train. It must have to do with body chemistry or something...anyways, i am so proud of you for making the decision to quit. I would love to tell you that it gets easier but the first week was the hardest for me and i am now going into my third week and still get the cravings but they arent as bad. Let's stay strong together!

peapods02

peapods02,
Congrats on your decision! Dont feel bad at all about the slip up....it happens, the good thing about it is, the cig tasted bad! A friend of my took Wellbutrin and it made her quit smoking b/c she said that cigs tasted awful when she was taking it. On the other hand, my mom takes Wellbutrin and still smokes like a freight train. It must have to do with body chemistry or something...anyways, i am so proud of you for making the decision to quit. I would love to tell you that it gets easier but the first week was the hardest for me and i am now going into my third week and still get the cravings but they arent as bad. Let's stay strong together!

Thanks for the vote of confidence, I will take all that I can get. My doctor was trying it get me to take the chantix, and I know that it works, but I wanted the "kill 2 birds with 1 stone" option, because in about 3 1/2 weeks it will have been 1 year since my mom passed away and I wanted the anti-depressant as well as the help to stop smoking. I am trying to approach the smoking as I have with the eating, it is just going to take bit more to break the routines and daily habits that I have become so accustom too.

Thanks again and good for you as well :drinker: !!

One day at a time

vrdz3215

Just checking in for today..this morning has been tough for me. I have had a very stressful morning and usually when stress strikes I would go out for a smoke. Instead I took a walk around the building and took some deep breaths which def helped the craving subside. One day at a time...i have to keep saying that to myself...One day at a time.
Tommorrow I am going to a concert (Aerosmith) I am soooooooo excited and the people I am going with ALL smoke! Ahhh! I am going to stay strong though and not give into temptation. I have volunteered to be the DD so I will not have the urge to smoke because I drank a beer or two. I find that when I drink alcohol is when I actually crave the most! It's like they go hand in hand or something (lol) and another plus I will save the calories and the bloat from the beer since I am the DD! Double Plus!
Hope everyone is having a great Tuesday! :flowerforyou: