Smokers know that cigarette cravings can come unexpectedly, but if you are prepared for these moments, you can resist those urges when they inevitably arise. A simple technique that can be used at any time is deep breathing. By focusing on the rhythm of your breathing, you can shift your attention away from the annoying cravings and into a place of calm.
Use this Monday to practice some simple breathing techniques. The animated GIF at the top of the page helps you to set the correct breathing rate: not too fast, not too slow, just measured and controlled.
Studies show that breathing exercise reduces symptoms of smoking withdrawal, including cigarette craving, and the tension and irritability associated with it. Deep breathing also helps you feel more awake and improve your ability to concentrate.
You can turn your cravings into peaceful, calming exercises using a variety of breathing techniques. Experiment with a few different methods and find out which one is right for you.
Here is a brief description of Pursed Lips Breathing to get you started:
Take five to ten minutes. Sit comfortably. Inhale through your nose and then with pursed lips through your mouth for twice as long as you inhale. Your chest and diaphragm should expand as you inhale and slowly collapse as you exhale. Here is a video for further instructions.
Need more Here are some more exercises you can do:
Square breathing
Abdominal breathing
Hold your breath
When you purify the air in your lungs, you clear your mind as well. Instead of longing for it, you are now calm, cool, and collected. Use Monday to replace old habits with good ones.
