Try Belly Breathing to Reduce Your Cravings
Take a deep breath to reset and renew your efforts to quit on Monday. Deep breathing can be a dependable method to control stress and nicotine cravings.
A craving can last for up to ten minutes. Why not try deep breathing to get through your next one? Studies show that deep breathing exercises may reduce withdrawal symptoms and the related tension and irritability associated with a craving.
Get started with belly breathing, which can quickly restore you to calm. Combine the following belly breathing exercise with our animated GIFs:
- Place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly.
- Close your eyes and mouth. Place your awareness on your breath and not on your surroundings.
- Inhale deeply through your nose for a count of four, making sure your diaphragm, or abdomen is expanding and not your chest.
- Exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of four.
- Continue in this way for a few breaths, or until you feel calm.
There are many different breathing exercises, find one that’s best for you. Consider practicing breathing techniques before a nicotine craving episode occurs.
Use Monday to replace old habits with good habits. Now, when a craving hits you’ll be prepared. For more tips on how to quit and stay quit, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, or Instagram.