The Morning Smoke
Most smokers begin their day with a morning cigarette. Having a cigarette is their first thought of the day. This thought process will not disappear overnight even if you have been smoke-free. Be aware that at first you may become irritable because you “can’t” have a cigarette. At these times it may be helpful to remember that it isn’t that you can’t have a cigarette, but rather that you have chosen not to smoke for many good reasons. Keep in mind that you have taken steps to positively improve your life in a variety ways by quitting smoking.Consider ways of changing your morning routine so that smoking is not a part of it. What do you normally do first thing in the morning? Where do you normally smoke? What do you do while smoking? Change the order of activities or add new ones as appropriate. A change in routine may be to iron your clothes for the day first thing in the morning rather than in advance. This would keep you busy at a time when you would previously have been smoking. If you have a dog, walk him or her as soon as you get out of bed. If you are accustomed to smoking while you walk the dog, walk faster than usual in order to keep your mind off smoking. Wear headphones and listen to music or the news. Take a longer shower than usual. Most people are too busy to enjoy anything more than a quick shower in the morning. However, if you take the time to enjoy the warm water, you will have less empty time to fill with smoking before it is time to leave the house.
If possible, join a gym. It is not necessary to work out for hours, however going to the gym first thing in the morning may be a change that keeps you from considering smoking, or feeling as if you are deprived by not smoking. Even moderate exercise for 15 minutes can be enough to jump-start your metabolism and give you a new outlook on your abilities and on your day. Be sure to consult with your physician before beginning any exercise program.
Do not dwell on the fact that you are not smoking. Make plans for your day, go over your to-do list from the day before and cross off the things that you have already done. There is satisfaction in having completed necessary tasks. Use this time to make plans for the weekend or for an upcoming vacation. Write down places that you dream about visiting someday, even if the trip does not sound realistic now. Brush your teeth and use mouthwash, several times throughout the morning if necessary. Learn a deep-breathing or meditation technique, and practice for a few minutes first thing in the morning. Be sure to stay hydrated by drinking at least 8 ounces of water first thing in the morning.